Winding cobbled streets. Castle views from your bedroom. Bagpipes echoing on your way to class. If you’ve ever dreamed of living and learning in a city that feels like a powerful mix of Harry Potter and high academia, you need to study in Edinburgh.
This Scottish capital isn’t just postcard-pretty. It’s one of the UK’s strongest academic hubs, pulling in thousands of international students every year. And when you’re not in lectures? You’re diving into history, hiking volcanic hills, or sipping world-class coffee in tucked-away cafés.
So if you’re planning your next academic adventure abroad, don’t scroll past Edinburgh. Scroll in.
About the City – Study in Edinburgh
Set against a backdrop of medieval architecture and sweeping highlands, Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. It’s smart, scenic, and seriously student-friendly.
To study in Edinburgh is to place yourself at the intersection of tradition and innovation. While you’re surrounded by ancient cathedrals and literary legends, you’re also gaining access to research labs, tech incubators, and a culture of groundbreaking ideas.
Edinburgh’s universities consistently rank among the world’s best. With a student population of over 50,000, the city has adapted beautifully, it’s walkable, globally connected, and packed with events, festivals, and nightlife that cater to both freshers and postgrads alike.
Whether you’re here for history, science, healthcare, AI, or the arts, Edinburgh’s academic scene is as vast as the city’s skyline. You’ll come for the degree. You’ll stay for the experience.
Why Edinburgh is a Magnet for International Students
Edinburgh doesn’t just educate you. It shapes you.
Let’s start academically. The University of Edinburgh alone ranks in the top 20 globally and is part of the elite Russell Group. The city offers a range of institutions, from ancient universities to modern creative colleges, ensuring there’s something for every academic path.
Couple that with excellent post-study work opportunities. Scotland’s Graduate Route visa allows you to stay up to 2 years after graduation, plenty of time to land that job or start your business project.
And let’s talk quality of life. Edinburgh is packed with green parks, castles, hiking trails, theatres, and live music, yet still manages to feel calm and accessible. Crime is low. Healthcare’s free (NHS!). And the community? Warm, diverse, and incredibly welcoming.
International students from over 150 countries call Edinburgh home. Expect instant friends, academic nurture, and a cultural journey you’ll never forget.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Edinburgh
Looking for academic excellence with serious international credibility? Here are the city’s shining stars:
1. The University of Edinburgh
Founded in 1583. Ranked among the world’s top 20 universities (QS 2025). Renowned for medicine, computer science, AI, law, and literature. Nobel laureates, world leaders, and scientific pioneers walked these halls.
2. Edinburgh Napier University
Modern, applied, and business-savvy. Known for hospitality, media, computing, and engineering. Strong links with local and international industries.
3. Heriot-Watt University
Located just outside the city. Excellent for business, engineering, mathematics, and data science. Highly international, with campuses in Dubai and Malaysia.
4. Queen Margaret University
Specialising in healthcare, speech therapy, drama, and business. Small cohorts and highly supportive learning.
5. Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)
A key institution for agriculture, environmental science, and veterinary studies. Great for students focused on sustainability or rural development.
6. Edinburgh College of Art (ECA)
Part of the University of Edinburgh. Stellar reputation for design, architecture, fine art, and fashion.
7. Leith School of Art
Intimate, contemporary art college in Edinburgh’s creative quarter. Practical, portfolio-focused teaching.
8. Edinburgh Business School (Heriot-Watt)
Recognised globally for MBA programs. Offers flexible, distance, and part-time learning perfect for international students.
9. New College (University of Edinburgh)
Focuses on theology, religion, and philosophy. Rich history and beautiful interiors nestled on The Mound.
10. Edinburgh College
A popular choice for vocational and access courses. Strong offerings in hospitality, web design, and English language programmes.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties
Looking for the perfect place to crash, cram, and chill? Here are the top-rated student accommodations in Edinburgh:
- Scape Edinburgh
- IQ Fountainbridge
- The Student Housing Company – Arran House
- Canal Point
- Gateway Apartments
- Shrubhill House
- Meadow Court
- Portsburgh Court
- Potterrow Student Apartments
- Elliott House
These offer ensuite rooms, security, all-inclusive bills, fast Wi-Fi, gym access and bustling social scenes, not to mention prime locations near key universities.
Top 10 Student Areas in Edinburgh
Whether you’re hunting for peace and quiet or nightlife and noise, Edinburgh has a neighbourhood for you.
1. Old Town
Nearby: University of Edinburgh
Accommodations: Potterrow Apartments, private flats
Historic and iconic. Think cobblestone streets, quirky coffee shops, and student-packed pubs.
2. Newington
Nearby: University of Edinburgh, ECA
Accommodations: Scape Edinburgh, Arran House
Lively and central. Bagels, vintage shops, and easy access to lectures.
3. Marchmont
Nearby: University of Edinburgh
Accommodations: Meadow Court
Community feel with Victorian flats, leafy parks, and the famed Meadows on your doorstep.
4. Fountainbridge
Nearby: Napier, ECA
Accommodations: IQ Fountainbridge, Canal Point
Trendy, walkable and loaded with brunch spots.
5. Leith
Nearby: Edinburgh College, Leith School of Art
Accommodations: Shrubhill House, private rentals
Edgy and affordable. Art meets warehouse-chic. A rising favourite.
6. Haymarket
Nearby: Easy transport to all campuses
Accommodations: Gateway Apartments, luxury studios
Well-connected with a mix of student and professional housing.
7. Bruntsfield
Nearby: University of Edinburgh
Accommodations: Private house shares
Quieter than Newington. Bistros, bakeries, and small-town charm.
8. Liberton
Nearby: Queen Margaret Uni (with bus link)
Accommodations: Budget student housing
Residential, with big green spaces and peaceful surroundings.
9. Gorgie/Dalry
Nearby: Napier University
Accommodations: Affordable private rentals
Popular with 2nd and 3rd years. Great value and night bus access.
10. Portobello
Nearby: Edinburgh College
Accommodations: Coastal cottages and house shares
Want beach on your doorstep? This is it.
Cost of Living in Edinburgh
Living in Edinburgh is more affordable than cities like London, but it’s still a capital. Budgeting wisely is key.
Approximate student monthly expenses (2025 outlook):
- Rent (shared or ensuite room): £600–£950
- Food & groceries: £180–£250
- Transport (student discount): £40–£60
- Utilities & Wi-Fi (if not included): £60–£100
- Going out/Leisure: £100–£200
Estimated Total: £1,000–£1,500/month
Top tip? Choose housing with bills included. And take advantage of student discounts, available nearly everywhere.
Local Transport Facilities for Students
Getting around Edinburgh is refreshingly smooth.
- Buses: Lothian Buses run across the city, frequent and reliable. The Ridacard with student discount is a no-brainer.
- Trams: Connects the city centre to the airport, and they’re fast, clean, scenic.
- Cycling: The city’s developing its bike-friendly infrastructure. Student-run bike schemes also exist.
- Walking: Edinburgh is crazy walkable. Most central unis are within a 15–25-minute radius.
- Trains: Edinburgh Waverley links you to Glasgow (1 hour) or London (4.5 hours). Perfect for weekend escapes.
Final Thoughts – Why Study in Edinburgh?
Let’s face it, you’re not looking for ordinary. And study in Edinburgh is anything but.
You’ll be learning in buildings older than entire countries. Can have your morning coffee staring at a volcano. You’ll find Pub Quiz nights turned philosophy debates, and lecturers who also write books, lead research, and invent things that matter.
Beyond the degree? You gain independence. Global networks. Cultural awareness. Lifelong friends.
So no, you’re not just getting a diploma when you study here.
You’re getting a life you won’t forget.
Top 10 FAQs – What Students Like You Ask
1. Is Edinburgh safe for international students?
Yes, it’s one of the UK’s safest cities. Stick to well-lit streets and you’ll be fine.
2. Can I work part-time on a student visa?
Yes. You can work 20 hours/week during term and full-time in holidays.
3. Are scholarships available for international students?
Absolutely. Edinburgh unis offer merit-based and programme-specific scholarships.
4. How cold does it get?
Chilly but not extreme. Expect winter temps of 0–5°C. Lots of layers help.
5. Is accommodation easy to find?
Yes, but book early. Options near campuses go fast between May–July.
6. Can I stay in the UK after graduating?
Yes, apply for the Graduate Route Visa for a 2-year stay-back option.
7. Is food expensive?
Eating out can be pricy. But groceries are affordable, and there’s always a student deal nearby.
8. Which uni is better, Edinburgh or Napier?
Depends. Edinburgh is research-heavy. Napier excels in industry links and practical learning.
9. Do I need to bring winter gear from home?
It’s better to buy locally, it’s made for the weather.
10. Is Edinburgh worth it?
100%. For your mind, your CV, and your soul.
