University Guide
University of Edinburgh
Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the UK’s oldest universities. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate study across a wide range of subjects, bringing together a long academic history and research that tackles today’s challenges. Studying here also means getting to know Edinburgh, with its historic streets, festivals and green spaces offering plenty to explore beyond your lectures.
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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Edinburgh.
Rankings
Edinburgh ranks 35th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027. It also places joint 29th worldwide and fifth in the UK in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, maintaining its position among the country’s leading research universities.
Employability
The university’s Careers Service helps students explore career options, find vacancies and prepare applications and interviews. Support includes appointments, events and online resources. Graduates can continue using the full careers service for two years after finishing their course, giving them support as they take their next steps.
Fees
For 2026/27, undergraduate tuition is £1,820 a year for students assessed at the Scotland fee rate; eligible students can receive tuition support through SAAS. Most students paying the rest-of-UK fee rate pay £9,790, rising to £10,050 in 2027/28. International and postgraduate fees vary by course, so check the university’s fees and funding information for your programme and entry year.
Bursaries
The Access Edinburgh Scholarship offers eligible full-time UK undergraduates from lower-income households up to £5,000 per academic year, depending on their circumstances. There are also scholarships for international undergraduates, including subject-specific awards. Check the criteria and deadlines for each scheme, as funding depends on your course, background and year of entry.
Accommodation
Edinburgh offers catered and self-catered accommodation across the city. Eligible new undergraduates living outside Edinburgh can receive a guaranteed accommodation offer if they apply by 31 July, hold an unconditional firm UCAS offer by 31 August and meet the remaining conditions, including studying for the full academic year. Later applications depend on availability, and separate guarantees cover eligible postgraduates. Prices vary by room and contract length, so check current listings and your campus location. You can also explore private student accommodation in Edinburgh through AFS.
Need a place to stay in Edinburgh?
We have lots of available student accommodation in Edinburgh.
Students' Union
Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) represents students and brings university life together through societies, events, volunteering and social spaces. Joining a student society is a good way to meet people with similar interests. Its Advice Place also supports students with accommodation, money, academic issues and wellbeing.
Famous for
Edinburgh has a long history of influential discoveries and thinkers. Its Nobel Prize connections include physicist Peter Higgs, who worked at the university, and graduates Sir Fraser Stoddart and Richard Henderson, both recognised for their contributions to chemistry.
News
In October 2026, Edinburgh announced the £7.9 million ENERGISE-BD trial, funded by Wellcome. The study will investigate whether a ketogenic diet can help with bipolar depression, comparing it with the NHS EatWell diet. It builds on earlier research by the university’s team.
Accommodation for Students says
"A firm favourite with students and tourists alike, there’s always plenty going on in Edinburgh. Impressive architecture, stunning natural beauty and a rich history all combine to make Edinburgh a really exciting place to be"
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