Douglas Olsen
The University of Edinburgh is a prestigious institute that offers a wide range of courses for students from all over the world. In 2020, the university had more than 18,000 international students from over 167 countries. The process of applying to Edinburgh University as an international student varies depending on the course level (undergraduate or postgraduate). For most undergraduate courses, the UCAS platform is used, with a deadline of 31 January for the following academic year. International students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS and are usually required to obtain a student visa to study in the UK. The university provides a range of accommodation options, with first-year and direct-entrant undergraduate students guaranteed accommodation if they meet certain criteria.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application form | International Student Application Form |
| Documents required | SELT Certificate (proof of English language level), IELTS, LanguageCert, Pearson PTE, or Trinity College London certificates |
| Personal statement | Required, can be written directly in the application form or attached separately |
| Application deadline | 31 January for undergraduate courses (except medicine and veterinary medicine) |
| English language proficiency | Minimum scores required: IELTS – 6.5-7.0, TOEFL – 92-100 |
| Visa requirements | Student visa required for international students, can be obtained through a Standard Visitor Visa or Short-Term Study Visa |
| Accommodation | On-campus or private off-campus accommodation options available, with first-year and direct-entrant undergraduate students given priority |
| Admissions statistics | Approximately 18,000 international students from over 167 countries in 2020 |
| Academic requirements | High academic standards with grades ranging from AAB-A*AA, standardised test scores (ACT or SAT) |
| Application boost | Highlighting exceptional academic achievements or awards, including an Edinburgh-specific reference |
Explore related products
$29.95 $29.95
What You'll Learn
English language proficiency requirements
The University of Edinburgh requires all undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, regardless of nationality, to demonstrate a level of English language competency. The University accepts a wide range of international English qualifications and English language tests, including IELTS, TOEFL, and Trinity ISE. Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start of the month in which your degree begins. If you are using IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, Trinity ISE, or Oxford ELLT, it must be no more than two years old on the first day of the month in which your degree commences.
The University of Edinburgh also accepts the successful completion of its English for Academic Purposes programme or the University of Glasgow Pre-Sessional English programme as meeting its English language requirements. Additionally, the University will accept undergraduate or postgraduate degrees taught and assessed in English in a majority English-speaking country or territory, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). If you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or territory, the University will also accept degrees awarded by the Open University to meet its academic English requirement.
The University of Edinburgh also offers an International Foundation Programme (IFP) in Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, which can be useful for international students preparing for undergraduate study. To be admitted to this programme, you must have an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) for entry. Accepted SELT certificates include IELTS, LanguageCert, Pearson PTE, and Trinity College London certificates.
It is important to note that in addition to the University's English language proficiency requirements, the UK Home Office sets its own minimum standards for applicants requiring a Student visa to study in the UK. If you need a Student visa, your English qualification for admission must be included in the University's list of accepted qualifications, unless you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or territory as defined by UKVI. Majority English-speaking countries and territories are those defined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Chinese Students at Boston University: What's the Count?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Student visa application
To study in the UK as an international student, you will need to apply for a student visa. The University of Edinburgh's Student Immigration Service can help you with any questions you may have about visas and moving to the UK to study. They can review your application before you submit it and provide accurate and personalised advice.
To apply for a student visa, you must do so in your home country or normal country of residence. The only exception to this is if you already hold a valid UK visa that allows you to extend or switch in the UK.
The first step to obtaining a student visa is to receive an acceptance letter from the University of Edinburgh. Once you have been accepted, the university will send you a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter. This letter is essential for applying for a student visa and will include details of your total course fee. You will need to pay a deposit, typically 100% of the total course fee, to secure your place. If you are applying for a two-year course, you can choose to pay the full two-year fee upfront to secure a two-year visa.
After receiving your CAS letter, you can begin the student visa application process. You will need to provide proof of your English language level with a SELT Certificate. The University of Edinburgh accepts IELTS, LanguageCert, Pearson PTE, or Trinity College London certificates. You will also need to provide financial evidence that you can support yourself in the UK. This may include bank statements or proof of income.
It is important to carefully follow the guidance provided by the University of Edinburgh and the UK government when submitting your student visa application. The university will provide a step-by-step guide for your visa type and may ask you to review your visa application form before you submit it.
Discover the Student Population at UT School of Public Health
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Funding and scholarships
The University of Edinburgh offers a wide range of scholarships for international students. These scholarships are designed to help students achieve their academic aspirations and cover expenses. Scholarships are offered by the university itself, as well as in partnership with external organisations and institutions.
Undergraduate Scholarships
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies International Scholarship provides an award of £5,000 per year for the duration of the program to outstanding veterinary medicine undergraduates. The Robertson International Scholarships offer awards of £1,000 to exceptional undergraduate students. The Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Mathematics Scholarships grant £5,000 annually for the program's duration.
Postgraduate Scholarships
The University of Edinburgh is part of a consortium of universities in Scotland that have been awarded funding from the Economics & Social Research Council (ESRC) to support postgraduate studentships and training in the Social Sciences. The Dean's Excellence Scholarship Programme offers awards of £5,000 and £10,000 to master's students demonstrating academic excellence. The School of Health and Social Science PhD Studentship covers 100% of tuition fees at the Home rate and provides a living stipend of £17,668. The Sheila Cannell Postgraduate Scholarship offers a one-time award of £2,000 to master's students.
External Funding Opportunities
In partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, the University of Edinburgh is offering five scholarships to students in Thailand, India, Spain, Mexico, and Nigeria, enrolling in one-year master's programmes for the 2025-2026 academic year. The scheme aims to provide further academic training for doctoral students whose research studies have been affected by conflict.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is another example of external funding, supporting students like Nyingilayefa Gift Ernest from Nigeria, who is studying for a Master's in Food Security at the University of Edinburgh.
University of Edinburgh Garden Scholarship
The University of Edinburgh also offers its own scholarships, such as the University of Edinburgh Garden Scholarship, which provides partial funding for a short training program.
Application Process
The University of Edinburgh's website provides full details of the eligibility criteria and the online application procedures for their scholarships. It is recommended that students apply to their chosen programme at the university before applying for scholarships, but students should carefully check the scholarship application criteria as this may vary.
Grad Students at UW: A Thriving Community
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Accommodation options
Edinburgh University offers a wide variety of accommodation options, most of which are within walking distance of the main university area in the city centre.
Every student living outside the City of Edinburgh is guaranteed a place in university-managed accommodation, provided they apply by the Accommodation Guarantee deadline. It is recommended that you apply for accommodation as soon as you have accepted an offer to study at the university. If you miss the deadline, you can still apply for university accommodation, but you will be placed on a waiting list.
If you are organising your own accommodation, the university provides a webpage with help and guidance for students during the flat-hunting process, as well as information on how to avoid any tenancy issues. It is recommended that you start looking into private accommodation well in advance of your arrival. If you plan to rent a flat or apartment, it is important to consider additional costs such as electricity/gas bills and Council Tax.
There are also private student halls of residence in Edinburgh that are not owned by the university but are aimed at students. Homestay is another option, where you can live with a local host family on a half-board or self-catering basis. This is a great way to learn more about the life and culture of Edinburgh and to practise everyday English language skills. The cost of homestay accommodation varies depending on the options you choose, but all utility bills are included in the weekly cost.
Graduate Student Benefits: University Experience Enhanced
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Admissions and Visa Interview
If you are an international student, you may be invited to an Admissions and Visa Interview. This interview is typically conducted via Zoom if you are outside the UK. The interview is designed to provide you with advice and guidance on the visa application process. If you are accepted, the International team will send you detailed information on how to apply for the right visa for your circumstances.
To secure your place at the University of Edinburgh, you will need to pay a deposit, which is typically 100% of the total course fee. If you are applying for a Student Visa for a two-year course, you can pay the full two-year fee upfront to secure a two-year visa. This payment will be reflected in your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter, which is essential for your Student Visa application.
If you are applying for a Standard Visitor Visa for courses under six months or an 11-month Short-Term Study Visa, you will receive an Unconditional Offer Letter once you have met all the conditions in your Conditional Offer Letter. The university will provide a step-by-step guide for your specific visa type and may review your visa application form before submission.
It is important to note that the University of Edinburgh has different entry requirements for international students, and you may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS. The minimum scores required are IELTS – 6.5-7.0 and TOEFL – 92-100. These scores may vary for each program, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for your chosen course.
Additionally, highlighting any exceptional academic achievements or awards can boost your application. International students may also receive unconditional offers, which means they have a place as long as they accept the offer. However, Edinburgh University sets high academic standards for its applicants, typically ranging from AAB-A*AA.
Transfer Students: Scholarships Available at Universities?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
International students need the following minimum scores in English language proficiency exams: IELTS – 6.5-7.0, TOEFL – 92-100. These scores may vary for each program.
First-year and direct-entrant undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation if they meet the following criteria: they have accepted an unconditional offer, are studying for the whole academic year starting in September, reside outside an “EH” postcode, and meet clearance checks (for non-EU students). You can rank up to 5 choices for different types of residences and room types (e.g. catered or self-catered, en-suite or shared bathrooms). If you are not planning to live in University accommodation, it is recommended that you start looking into private accommodation options well in advance.
You must apply for your Student Visa in your home country or normal country of residence. You will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) letter, which you will use to apply for your Student Visa. The Student Immigration Service can provide advice and guidance on visas and the application process.
Edinburgh University sets high academic standards for its applicants, usually ranging from AAB-A*AA. International students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS depending on their educational background. It could boost your application to highlight any exceptional academic achievements or awards.
The deadline for most undergraduate courses (except medicine and veterinary medicine) is 31 January for the following academic year.
