University applications have increased by 44%

The caution has been echoed by the Press Complaints Commission which has advised the media to avoid intrusive coverage of the prince's student life.

Earlier this month, the president of the university's student association said that students should use common sense when dealing with journalists.

Dana Green said that, despite all the "scaremongering and fuss", there was no need for students to avoid reporters and photographers.

Dr Lang said: "Let us not forget that we are in the spotlight and our private lives may become, for the wrong reasons, of interest to some.

"Now, do not give out improper information which would be inappropriate - and I think you all know what I mean by that."

Increase in applications

The prince decided against attending freshers week at the university, and instead opted to join his father Prince Charles for a series of engagements in Scotland.

The arrival of Prince William to study for four years as part of his History of Art MA (Honours) course, has caused excitement in St Andrews.

Applications for the university have increased by 44% since it emerged the prince would be studying in Fife.

For its part, the university said it was keeping special arrangements for the prince's arrival to a minimum.

Prince William enjoying himself in Scotland

Both on and off campus, the media has been warned to steer clear of every aspect of the prince's life.

If the coverage is not intrusive, then access may be given to specific organised events.

The prince hopes to draw attention away from St Andrews by carrying out a series of engagements with his father in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Ms Green said students had shown they were adopting a sensible approach.

She said: "At the moment everyone is acting very calmly and sensibly.

"If anything there is some hostility to the invasion into their lives. I think they have a strong feeling of dealing with this together.

"There is a feeling that as students they provide a united front to the media."