Study in Edinburgh 2024

Today, Scotland attracts a wide range of foreign students from all over the world with high-quality educational services and interesting culture. Many international students choose studying in Edinburgh as it's a great opportunity to combine effective courses with exciting rest. SMAPSE offers TOP-10 prestigious schools, colleges and universities located in Edinburgh where international students can get high-quality and balanced primary, secondary and higher education.

Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts as they are always ready to answer all your questions. 

Edinburgh, distinct from other elite academic cities in the UK, emphasizes a broad-based education. This approach aims to develop versatile individuals who are adept in various disciplines, preparing them for success in related specialties.

Primary Education in Edinburgh for International Students

Starting school at 4.5 years old, children in Edinburgh receive foundational knowledge about the world. For foreign students with limited English proficiency, language programs catering to beginners are a practical starting point. Once proficient in English, students can choose from various types of schools, including:

• General education

• Confessional

• Community-based

All school programs, whether primary or secondary, adhere to state standards, with the only difference being in religious or social emphasis. Elite schools in Edinburgh offer a nurturing, almost familial environment, complete with:

• On-site laboratories

• Language labs

• Libraries and reading rooms

• Swimming pools and sports facilities

Popular sports among Scotland's youth include horse riding, tennis, golf, and soccer. The cost for the best private schools in Edinburgh averages £7,530 per semester, with accommodations often in modernized Victorian mansions.

Edinburgh's universities annually host over 60,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. With 18 universities in the city, there are around 100 specializations available, including:

• Business and management

• Art

• Social sciences

• Mathematics and computer science

• Textiles and design

• Media and communication

• International law

• Medicine

• Finance

• And more

Admission for international students can be challenging due to differing school curricula. Applicants often need to complete a year in the International Foundation program and demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.0). University tuition starts from £5,085 per term, with living expenses ranging from £725 to £1,170 per month.

The higher education system in Edinburgh also includes:

• Short-term programs and summer camps

• Professional certificates (CELTA, BEC)

• Continuing education courses

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice do you have for those aspiring to attend top UK universities?

Thoroughly research your chosen university, including tuition fees, as these can vary widely. Prepare well for English proficiency tests like IELTS, which are essential for admission to any UK university. Focus on your preferred courses, checking their specific academic requirements, and ensure you are well-prepared in those areas.

Edinburgh offers a unique setting for learning English, with its vibrant streets, misty landscapes, and historic castles. Weekly programs, affordable for a broad audience (~£300), effectively combine leisure and study abroad. Available programs cater to various needs:

• University entrance preparation

• Exam preparation (FCE, PET, CAE, CPE, IELTS)

• Summer programs for children and teenagers

• Professional courses

• Language courses for those over 50

In summary, studying in Edinburgh offers a rich, diverse educational experience, blending rigorous academics with cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for international students.

General information about Edinburgh

Cost of living in Edinburgh

Accommodation options in Edinburgh

Coordinates of Edinburgh