Edinburgh University Student Life: An Insider's Guide

The University of Edinburgh is one of the best universities in the world, and the city of Edinburgh tops the list for atmosphere, positive reputation, and desirability. The Scottish capital offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern city life. With around 100,000 students, the city has a vibrant student community and a diverse range of activities and attractions. The University itself guarantees accommodation for eligible undergraduate students from outside the city and offers world-class facilities and award-winning support services. Edinburgh's student life includes a thriving nightlife, historic architecture, cultural festivals, and easy access to nature and outdoor activities.

Student Accommodation

The University of Edinburgh guarantees accommodation for all eligible undergraduate students from outside Edinburgh. The university provides accommodation options for over 10,000 students, including both catered and self-catering residential options, as well as community and welfare support through its Residence Life service.

The university offers a range of accommodation types, from single rooms to cluster flats and studios, with various amenities and communal spaces. The cost of these rooms varies depending on the type of room and its proximity to the campus. For example, a single room with en-suite facilities in the Canonmills area, which is a 30-minute walk from George Square, costs £7,767 per year.

The application process for university-managed accommodation begins after accepting an offer to study at the university. Students living outside of Edinburgh are guaranteed a place in university-managed accommodation if they apply by the Accommodation Guarantee deadline. Students not covered by the guarantee can still apply and will be placed on a waiting list.

Students also have the option to find private accommodation, either by renting a flat or through a private landlord or agency. The university recommends starting the search for private accommodation well in advance and provides resources to help students navigate the process and make informed decisions about their living arrangements.

Social Life

The University of Edinburgh is home to around 40,000 students, with a further 60,000 students from three other universities in the city. This means there is a unique buzz about the place, and you will be in good company. Edinburgh is Scotland's inspiring capital, a blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life.

The University itself offers over 300 clubs and societies, from sports to performing arts, environment, politics, and gaming. There is a society for everyone, and if there isn't, you can start your own. The University's Sports Union includes more than 60 sports clubs, catering to all types of activity and ability levels. There are also yoga and wellness classes available. Joining a club or society is a great way to meet people and make friends.

Edinburgh has a lot of pubs, bars, and clubs, with a thriving nightlife. There are also galleries, exhibitions, and hikes for those who prefer a quieter social life. The city has a lot of nice cafes and restaurants, as well as fast-food joints. There are also many random events throughout the year, such as vintage fairs, talks, and markets.

The University's Students' Association organises many social events, from movie screenings to club nights and concerts. There is also a student-run publication, The Student Room, which covers topics such as accommodation, social life, and course reviews.

Making friends at university can be daunting, but it is important to be yourself and take things at your own pace. Everyone is in the same situation, so try to be proactive and organise events or meetups with classmates, flatmates, or acquaintances.

Student Support

Student life at the University of Edinburgh is an incredible experience, with the city offering a unique buzz and an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty, and modern city life. The university provides award-winning support services, flexible programmes, and world-class facilities to ensure students have a unique and exceptional experience.

The University of Edinburgh is committed to providing comprehensive support to its undergraduate students. This includes assistance with finding accommodation, as well as addressing other concerns that may arise during their time at the university. The university guarantees accommodation offers to all eligible undergraduate students from outside Edinburgh. Students can choose between University-managed accommodation or private rentals.

The university also recognises the importance of mental health and wellbeing support for students. They provide various resources and services to promote and maintain positive mental health, including counselling services and mental health awareness initiatives.

Additionally, the university offers support for international students, helping them navigate visa and passport issues, and offering the opportunity to connect with other international students through initiatives like Edinburgh Buddies.

The University of Edinburgh is also dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for students with disabilities. They provide a range of services and accommodations to ensure that all students can fully participate in university life. This includes specialised support services, assistive technologies, and accessible facilities.

The university's clubs and societies play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and belonging. They provide opportunities for students to pursue their interests, connect with like-minded individuals, and develop new hobbies. Whether students are interested in sports, volunteering, or specific academic or cultural pursuits, the university's diverse range of clubs and societies enhance their overall student experience.

Finally, the University of Edinburgh is committed to addressing global challenges and promoting social responsibility and sustainability. They encourage students to get involved in initiatives that align with these values, such as volunteering and charity appeals, empowering them to make a positive impact during their time at the university and beyond.

Food and Drink

Edinburgh has more restaurants per head than any other UK city, so you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink. The city offers a variety of national cuisines, including Italian, French, Thai, Indian, Mongolian, and Kurdish. There are also Chinese buffets, Spanish tapas restaurants, and British chip shops. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, and there are plenty of budget-friendly options.

The Student Union offers affordable food in a range of locations, providing cheap and accessible lunchtime or evening meals for students living close to the University. The city also has a wide range of cafes, bakeries, and coffee shops.

For those looking for budget-friendly options, here are some recommendations:

• The Mosque Kitchen offers cheap and tasty curries, with chicken, lamb, and vegetable options, all served with rice for under £6.
• TTC (Thai Tapas Cafe) serves delicious street-style Thai food at affordable prices. Most dishes on the small box menu are between £3-5, including Goong Frong Beer (king prawns in beer batter) and Plaa Nua Ma-Muang (pan-seared beef).
• Oink is perfect for food on the go, serving freshly carved roast pork in a soft roll with a variety of toppings for only £2.95.
• Union of Genius is Scotland's first soup cafe, serving six fresh, handmade soups daily with a choice of artisan breads. They offer vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring a nutritious meal.
• Snax Cafe offers traditional cooked breakfasts or filling lunches, and you can get change from a £5 note.
• Social Bite is a great option for a sandwich and coffee, with a price range that won't break the bank.
• The Hearty Cafe, run by students, operates on Mondays from 1-2 pm in the University Chaplaincy. It serves vegan, sustainable, local, organic, and fairtrade food at affordable prices.

The University of Edinburgh itself provides award-winning, sustainable, and locally sourced food and drink for its students, staff, and visitors. The University's Good Food Policy promotes local companies and environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable food practices. The University aims to provide healthy, high-quality, and affordable food that meets dietary needs and enhances the wellbeing of its community.

The University's catering outlets offer a wide range of options, including vegetarian, plant-based, and gluten-free choices. They also have initiatives to reduce waste, such as the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, and encourage the use of reusable containers and cups.

Attractions and Activities

Edinburgh is a desirable place to live, with its blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. The city is brimming with attractions and activities to keep students entertained throughout their time at university.

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, with its cobblestone pathways and medieval architecture. The Old Town, with its Reformation-era buildings, and the New Town, dating back to the Georgian era, offer a unique insight into the past. The iconic Edinburgh Castle, proudly perched on Castle Rock, is a must-see, providing an overwhelming presence that will leave you in awe.

For those who enjoy exploring nature, Holyrood Park offers 650 acres of green space, with breathtaking views of geographical features such as Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano that offers a panoramic view of the city. The Royal Botanic Garden is another must-visit attraction, with its awe-inspiring landscape and fascinating history.

Edinburgh is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with something to suit everyone's tastes. The city's student unions host some of the biggest student events, and there are plenty of clubs, pubs, and cocktail bars to choose from. The Teviot Row House, the oldest purpose-built student union, is a great place to socialise. For a more relaxed evening, Belushis and Footlights in the Old Town offer a cosy atmosphere and a wide selection of ales.

Foodies will also delight in the city's culinary offerings. From traditional Scottish dishes like haggis to international cuisine such as sushi at Kanpai and Thai street food at Street Box, there's something to satisfy all taste buds. Edinburgh also boasts an impressive pizza scene, with Civerinos, Dough, and High Dive offering huge pizzas with veggie and vegan options.

The city is a hub for arts and culture, hosting the world's largest art festival, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This exhilarating event takes over the city for around 25 days, offering a unique experience for students. Throughout the year, there are also random events like vintage fairs, talks organised by the university, and various markets.

With its historic charm, vibrant social scene, and abundance of natural and cultural attractions, Edinburgh offers a wealth of activities and attractions to enhance your student experience.

Frequently asked questions