Why should I study in Edinburgh?

5 reasons to study abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland

Although the meaning of the city’s name is not certain, the name ‘Edinburgh’ is rumoured to originate from the old English of ‘Edwin's fort’, referring to the 7th century King Edwin of Northumbria (and ‘burgh’ means ‘fortress’ or ‘walled collection of buildings’). Some would also note that ‘Edin’, the root of the city's name, derives from Eidyn, the name for this region in Cumbric – the Brittonic Celtic language formerly spoken there.

1. How big is Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is Scotland's second most populous city and the seventh most populous in the United Kingdom. The official population estimates are around 488,000 for the Locality of Edinburgh, around 518,500 for the City of Edinburgh and around 1,339,400 for the city region.

2. How many universities and colleges are located in, or around Edinburgh, Scotland?

Scotland is home to some 15 universities, of which 6 are located in Edinburgh. With a diverse set of universities in Edinburgh, there is an extensive range of university courses available for all students. The higher education institutions of Edinburgh City Region range from ancient to modern. To explore some of Edinburgh’s colleges and universities, click on the university names below, or visit our ‘Study in the United Kingdom’ page.

3. Can I study in Edinburgh, Scotland without knowing English?

You can expect to be taught in English in Edinburgh. English language requirements vary between degree programme. A wide range of international English qualifications and English language tests are accepted. To receive an English language certificate like the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), four parts of the language are tested, including: reading, listening, speaking and writing. For more information on IELTS, or TOEFL, click here.

4. Is Edinburgh a good place to study in Scotland?

Scotland’s inspiring capital is one of Europe’s great cultural hubs and a stimulating place to study. The University of Edinburgh is located in the very heart of the capital; one which is consistently considered one of the most desirable places to live in the world. Teaching and research quality in Edinburgh is excellent and recognised internationally. Furthermore, Edinburgh also has a great nightlife and all of the bars, clubs and venues you might expect from a vibrant capital city.

Safety is an important point to consider when studying abroad. According to the current Numbeo Safety Index, Edinburgh has a score of 69.95 – ranking it at number 93 of 427 cities globally for safety.

Haggis, Bagpipes or Braveheart… however, Scotland has much more to offer, than these things. Edinburgh is a city that lives and breathes history. If you go into the centre of town, you’ll find many historic buildings such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Castle, St Giles Cathedral and more.  Edinburgh is a historic city, famous for internationally renowned festivals, events, architecture, museums, and the perfect mix of thriving city life and vast, panoramic views of nature.

5. Is Edinburgh, United Kingdom an expensive city to live in?

The cost of living can play a major factor in deciding where to study. Aside from tuition fees, students should consider the local cost of living – including items like housing, food, and social life. According to the current Numbeo Cost of Living Index, Edinburgh has a score of 64.92 – ranking it at number 217 of 515 cities globally for the cost of living (the higher the ranking, the more expensive the cost of living is).

If you’re considering pursuing a degree abroad, then let us help you find the best university for you. U-Multirank’s ‘For students’ track offers personalised university comparisons, so you can find the university that best matches you. Create your own personalised university rankings today, and compare universities according to what matters most to you.  To start, make sure to select your desired study destination and we’ll help guide you through the rest.