The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh


  • The University of Edinburgh
  • Institution

    University

  • Address

    Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh
    Scotland, EH8 9YL
    United Kingdom

  • Phone

    +44 0 13 1650 1000

  • E-mail

    communications.office@ed.ac.uk

  • Web

    The University of Edinburgh

  • Intake

    January
    September

  • Admission Start

    September

  • Approximate Fees /Year

    Undergraduate: £18000 to £34000
    Post Graduate: £19000 to £24000
    Research: £18000 to £24000

The University of Edinburgh stands as a historic beacon of academic excellence, boasting a rich heritage that dates back to its founding in 1583. Divided into three prestigious colleges, it caters to a diverse student body of approximately 35,000 individuals, with the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences accommodating the largest proportion. Renowned for its exceptional medical and veterinary programs, the university has garnered global acclaim as a top-tier institution in these fields. Emphasizing the significance of international exposure, UoE actively encourages its students to participate in various global experiences through initiatives like the Go Abroad Fund, which grants opportunities to 250 students annually.

With a substantial research income exceeding £200 million and a significant commitment of over £26 million to scholarships and bursaries, UoE remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant academic environment. The university's substantial endowment of approximately £317 million secures its position as the third-largest endowment among UK universities, following in the footsteps of esteemed institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. UoE's sprawling campuses, including the Central area, King's Building, BioQuarter, Western General, and Easter Bush, provide a dynamic backdrop for academic pursuits and research excellence. These campuses house various specialized facilities and libraries, catering to diverse disciplines such as social sciences, engineering, and medicine.

The university's association with notable organizations like the Russell Group, Coimbra Group, and the League of European Research Universities underscores its commitment to fostering global collaboration and research initiatives. Its extensive library, encompassing a staggering 2.5 million volumes and over 2,800 indexed periodicals, serves as a crucial resource hub for students and researchers alike. Additionally, the University of Edinburgh boasts an illustrious alumni roster, including luminaries like Charles Darwin, David Hume, Alexander Graham Bell, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on their respective fields.

Drawing over 45,000 applications in 2020, with approximately 8,000 students enrolling from international backgrounds, UoE's global appeal is further underscored by the diverse and talented pool of applicants it attracts annually. The university's affiliation with 20 Nobel laureates across various disciplines, including Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Peace, Literature, and the Memorial Prize in Economic Science, serves as a testament to its enduring commitment to academic excellence and impactful research contributions. Situated in the captivating city of Edinburgh, the university's location within Scotland's historic capital contributes to its unique appeal, with the Scottish Parliament, an ancient volcanic rock, and an iconic castle adding to the city's cultural richness and allure.


  • The University of Edinburgh maintains a strong global presence, securing a consistent position within the top 50 universities worldwide. Notably, the 2023 QS World University Rankings place the university at an impressive 15th position, reaffirming its esteemed reputation in the international academic landscape.
  • The university's Research Excellence Framework for 2021 highlights its robust commitment to pioneering research endeavors, with an outstanding 90% of its research activities classified as world-leading. This achievement solidifies its standing as the fourth leading institution in the UK for research power, underscoring its significant contributions to cutting-edge research and scholarship.
  • The university's unwavering dedication to fostering career success is evidenced by the exceptional employability of its graduates. Ranking within the top 10 in the UK and the top 100 worldwide, the university's emphasis on holistic education and practical skill development ensures that its graduates are well-equipped for success in a competitive global job market.

  • Access award-winning career services for professional guidance and support in charting your career path and achieving your professional ambitions.
  • Benefit from flexible access to cutting-edge library resources, IT facilities, and study spaces, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your studies into your busy schedule.
  • Enjoy the convenience of 24/7 computer access in the Main Library and other campus computer labs, providing students with unrestricted use of technology resources.
  • Avail yourself of a range of support services to address any academic or personal challenges you may encounter, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your academic journey.
  • Find solace and community at the George Square Gardens Chaplaincy Labyrinth, which warmly welcomes individuals of all faiths to come together and find support within the university community.
  • Automatically become a member of the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) and benefit from their advocacy and efforts to enhance your university experience and student life.
  • Receive guidance, advice, and support tailored to international students and non-UK candidates through the International Headquarters of Global in Edinburgh, ensuring a smooth transition and experience for students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Provide tailored assistance for all students, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive in a nurturing classroom environment, irrespective of any special educational needs.
  • Access top-tier childcare facilities, allowing you to focus on your studies without concerns about the well-being of your children, ensuring a conducive learning environment for both students and their families.

The International Office at Edinburgh University serves as a comprehensive support hub for international students, offering a range of tailored programs and services. One such initiative is the Integrated English for Academic Purposes course, which seamlessly combines postgraduate studies with pre-sessional English tuition, providing students with the necessary language skills for successful academic integration. Complementing this, the International Student Centre serves as a central point for addressing international concerns and orchestrates a diverse array of engaging events, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange among students from around the globe.

To ensure a smooth transition for new international students, the university extends a warm welcome through its dedicated welcome service at the Edinburgh airport during the months of September and January. Furthermore, the Resident Life service takes the lead in facilitating social gatherings and support events within the university halls, fostering an inclusive environment that aids new students in acclimating to their new surroundings. In addition, the International Buddy Scheme and Hospitality Scheme offer avenues for international students to connect with local residents and current university peers, providing them with valuable support networks to navigate the intricacies of both the city and university culture.

  • Times University Guide 2023: 10th
  • The Guardian University Guide 2023: 12th
  • QS World University Rankings 2023: 15th
  • Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022: 30th
  • 96% of the university's research is classified as world-leading or internationally excellent, with an impressive 55% of the research achieving the highest level of world-leading recognition.

The University of Edinburgh ensures a seamless accommodation experience for first-year students hailing from outside Edinburgh, guaranteeing housing within close proximity to the city center. With more than 25 accommodation sites available, students have a diverse range of options to choose from. Pollock Hall, located merely 2km from the city center, provides 1,900 catered rooms, including en suite, standard, and shared room options.

Additionally, students can opt for self-catering accommodations available in various halls and flats across the city, typically accommodating six students per flat. The university further extends support to students in search of private accommodations through its accommodation advice service, which operates at the commencement of each academic year.

Nestled near the heart of both the downtown area and the bustling graduate student campus, our residence hall boasts an array of distinctive features designed to enhance the living experience for all residents. With a total of 469 single rooms, each equipped with private bathrooms, and an additional 7 double rooms, our accommodation offers a diverse range of living arrangements to suit individual preferences.

One standout feature that sets our housing apart from conventional standards is the provision of individual storage space in cabinets, refrigerators, and freezers within the shared kitchen. This unique offering reflects our commitment to providing a comfortable and practical living environment for all residents, setting a new benchmark for housing standards in the UK.

Furthermore, residents have the advantage of specialized spaces tailored to their needs, including study rooms, a TV room, and a bookable dining room. These spaces are strategically integrated to cater to both academic and social pursuits, fostering a dynamic community where residents can seamlessly transition from focused studying to engaging social interactions.

For those with a passion for music, our residence hall offers a harmonious touch with four reservable music rooms equipped with a diverse selection of instruments. This not only caters to the artistic inclinations of our residents but also serves as a testament to our commitment to providing a well-rounded and enriching living experience.

In addition to these unique features, our housing complex provides an array of amenities to ensure convenience and comfort. From shared cooking facilities for communal use to coin-operated laundromats for easy access to laundry facilities, we've considered every aspect of daily living. The recreation area within the complex offers a variety of entertainment options, including TVs, table tennis, and pool tables, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for residents to unwind and socialize.

With ample storage capacity, dedicated study spaces, private meal areas, and four concert halls hosting a diverse range of cultural and entertainment events, our residence hall is not just a place to stay but a dynamic community where residents can thrive academically, socially, and creatively.

The University of Edinburgh places significant emphasis on ensuring the employability of its graduates, consistently securing a spot within the top 10 universities in the UK for career prospects. Recognizing the importance of post-graduation success, the university actively fosters the development of intellectual prowess and versatile skills highly sought after by employers across various industries. Throughout their academic journey, students acquire a range of high-level attributes that significantly enhance their professional appeal, positioning them favorably for diverse career opportunities upon graduation.

At the heart of the university's commitment to student success lies the comprehensive support provided by the Careers Service, with convenient locations at the Main Library in the Central Area campus and the King's Buildings campus. The Careers Service acts as a catalyst for networking opportunities, connecting students with a spectrum of employers, from renowned multinational corporations to local enterprises. Students benefit from a comprehensive online platform offering a wealth of information and guidance to aid in their professional development, including access to a diverse array of job postings both during and after graduation. Additionally, the service provides personalized assistance throughout the employment-seeking process, equipping students with the necessary tools for successful application submissions, interview preparations, and job offers, ensuring a seamless transition into the professional sphere. Moreover, the university extends access to its global alumni network and facilitates individualized internship placements, enabling students to explore enriching professional experiences both within the UK and internationally.

Undergraduate Program:

Academic Requirement:

  • At least Secondary Level: Grade 12 years of education
  • OR Equivalent Degree

The following qualifications may be considered for direct entry to our undergraduate programmes:

  • At least Secondary Level: Grade 12 years of education OR Equivalent Degree with grades 3.5/A- or higher, plus an approved Foundation Programme OR
  • 3 UK A Levels OR
  • Between 30 and 36 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB).

Language Proficiency:

University will accept the IELTS Academic (both the SELT and non-SELT) and TOEFL internet-based tests for direct admission to undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. One of the under-noted approved tests in English may be offered in place of GCSE English Language:

  • IGCSE English Language (including Speaking and Listening/Oral test) or a recognised overseas O-level English Language
  • Cambridge Proficiency (CPE)
  • Cambridge Advanced (CAE)
  • University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) GCE O-level English Language Syllabus 1119/1120 (with pass in Oral test) 1123/1125/1127/1128
  • IELTS Academic Test
  • TOEFL iBT (internet-Based)
  • INTO English for University Study Test
  • INTO English Language Assessment (IELA)
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
  • HKDSE - Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education
  • Trinity ISE III or IV Integrated Skills in English Examinations (with at least a Pass in all test components)

IELTS Requirements: IELTS - Academic (UKVI Approved)* OR IELTS - Academic (Other Centres) OR IELTS Indicator* (online test)

  • Linguistically less demanding courses: 6.0 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
  • Most courses: 6.5 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
  • Linguistically more demanding courses: 7.0 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
  • Validity period: 2 years

TOEFL Requirements: TOEFL iBT* (Internet based test OR iBT Special Home Edition)

  • Linguistically less demanding courses: 80 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
  • Most courses: 90 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
  • Linguistically more demanding courses: 95 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
  • Validity period: 2 years

More English Requirements  


More Information about International Students  


Postgraduate Program:

Academic Requirement:

  • Level: Undergraduate, 3-Years Bachelor Degree OR
  • Level: Undergraduate, 4-Years Bachelor Degree OR
  • OR Equivalent Degree

Entry to graduate diploma or taught Masters programmes usually requires either a UK upper second-class (2:1) or a lower second-class (2:2) undergraduate degree. For most courses, your major subject or content of your Bachelor degree may also be considered. Please check our Course Finder for detailed entry requirements.

Explanation: UK Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1)

  Applicants should normally have a Masters degree from a recognised university with CGPA 3.2/4 or 60%.

  Students who have completed a 2 or 3 year Bachelor degree with good grades followed by a good Masters degree will be considered on an individual basis.


Explanation: UK Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2)

  Applicants should normally have a Masters degree from a recognised university with a CGPA 3.0/4.

  Students who have completed a 2 or 3 year Bachelor degree with good grades followed by a good Masters degree will be considered on an individual basis.

Language Proficiency:

IELTS Requirements: IELTS Academic OR IELTS Indicator

  • Linguistically less demanding courses: 6.0 to 6.5 (with minimum of 6.0 in all four elements of the test)
  • Most courses: 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in all four elements of the test)
  • Linguistically more demanding courses: 7.0 to 7.5 (with minimum of 6.5 in all four elements of the test)
  • Validity period: 2 years

TOEFL Requirements: TOEFL iBT* (Internet based test OR iBT Special Home Edition)

  • Linguistically less demanding courses: 90 with minimum marks (Listening - 20, Reading - 19, Speaking - 21, Writing - 20)
  • Most courses: 95 with minimum marks (Listening - 20, Reading - 19, Speaking - 21, Writing - 20)
  • Linguistically more demanding courses: 105 with minimum marks (Listening - 23, Reading - 21, Speaking - 22, Writing - 23)
  • Validity period: 2 years

More English Requirements  


More Information about International Students