University Guide
Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University was established in 1821 as the School of Arts in Edinburgh. It was the world’s first mechanic’s institute and was later granted university status in 1966. The University has three campuses in Scotland; the first is in Edinburgh; the second is in Scottish Borders; and the third is in Orkney. There are also campuses in Dubai and Malaysia. There are currently nearly 11,000 students studying at the University.
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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the Heriot-Watt University.
Rankings
Heriot-Watt University is consistently ranked at a high level on the university rankings. In the Academic Ranking of World Universities, it is ranked among the top 55 universities in the UK and is ranked among the top 800 universities in the world. It is currently ranked at 42nd place in the UK according to the Times Higher Education League table 2024
Employability
95% of Heriot-Watt University’s students are in employment or in further study within 6 months of graduating. Students enjoy a high-quality academic experience that focuses on developing skills and knowledge that allow a smooth transition into the workplace.
Fees
For full-time Scottish students, tuition fees are paid by the Scottish Government through the Students Awards Agency, provided the students apply for this separately. For students from the rest of the UK, the tuition fees are £9,250 per year. However, the final year of the course is fee if the degree course is four years. Find out more about 2024/2025 admission rates here.
Bursaries
Heriot-Watt University offers a range of both academic scholarships and bursaries depending on the student’s individual position. To find out more and to see if you may be eligible, follow this link.
Accommodation
The University offers 2,000 residential places at its Edinburgh campus with a range of room types and prices. All of the rooms are self-catered and single occupancy, located within easy reach of the teaching buildings, sports facilities, catering venues and Student’s Union. Alternatively, AFS also recommend these private accommodation optons.
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Students' Union
Heriot-Watt University’s Student’s Union places great emphasis on the democratic nature of their organisation, offering students a warm welcome to the university. A long with countless activities and events to keep every individual entertained during their time at university, the Student’s Union also offers support to those who are in need.
Famous for
Heriot-Watt University is one of Scotland’s most international universities, with around a third of the students coming from outside of the UK. For this reason, it enjoys an established reputation for world-class teaching.
News
Heriot-Watts has recently been ranked 1st in Scotland in building, chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering and General Engineering in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021.
AFS says
"A firm favourite with students and tourists alike, there’s always plenty going on in Edinburgh. Impressive natural beauty and a rich history combine to make Edinburgh a really exciting place to be".
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