St Andrews University has finished top of the class in a survey of Scotland's higher education institutions.

The country's oldest seat of learning - which boasts Prince William among its students - came out best in the Sunday Times University Guide.

St Andrews, which ranked number 6 in the UK league, was also awarded the "University of the Year" title for 2002.

The guide states: "Outstanding teaching and research assessments over the past 12 months have propelled St Andrews into sixth place in the UK league table.

Prince William: St Andrews student

"Its ranking is up 10 places from last year and represents its highest-ever finish in the Sunday Times league table, earning it the coveted University of the Year title."

The guide also pointed out that Prince William's decision to study at St Andrews has given the university an exceptionally high profile and triggered a 44% rise in applications in 2001.

St Andrews principal Dr Brian Laing said the increase in applications which followed Prince William's acceptance at the university has led to an improvement in the quality of entrants.

Dr Lang said: "We are delighted by this recognition.

"This award recognises the very hard work of all of our staff, their commitment and skill."

Massive effect

Dr Lang also pointed to the institution's long term success.

He said: "St Andrews was on a long upward curve before William's arrival.

"His arrival has had a massive effect in terms of applications, but that has led us to improve the quality of entrants."

The second and third places in the table were taken by the universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow while the University of Paisley finished bottom of the table.