Study Abroad in Edinburgh
College Study Abroad
Explore Edinburgh with CIEE
Embrace a city where medieval history meets modern life when you study abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland. Walk the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, sip tea in a cozy café tucked beneath a stone archway, or climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city skyline and coastline. Explore the historic halls of Edinburgh Castle, browse independent bookshops in Stockbridge, or experience the energy of the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe. From its dramatic landscapes and rich literary heritage to its lively neighborhoods and welcoming atmosphere, Edinburgh study abroad offers a captivating blend of tradition, creativity, and everyday discovery.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Edinburgh designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, communications, the arts, science, engineering, technology, and more. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as business administration, finance, public administration, the arts, communications, marketing, education, and agriculture, gaining valuable international work experience in one of the U.K.’s most historic and influential cities. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Edinburgh study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing Scotland’s culture, history, and stunning natural beauty firsthand.
Top Activities in Edinburgh with CIEE
Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Edinburgh, study tours and excursions may include:
- A walking tour of the city center to visit popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Princes Street Gardens.
- Hiking up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park which offers superb walks and stunning views over the city
- Day trips to soak up Scotland’s stunning geography, such as Stirling, St. Andrews, and the beautiful Scottish Highlands
Academics in Edinburgh
CIEE Edinburgh
Our location in Edinburgh places students in the center of Scotland’s historic and cultural capital, allowing you to explore nearby iconic landmarks and enjoys easy access to world-class museums and engaging neighborhoods.
Edinburgh Napier University
The Edinburgh Napier University nearly has 20,000 students from more than 100 countries. It offers more than 300 undergraduate and postgraduate courses on its three campuses located in the capital of Scotland, the historical city of Edinburgh. Napier delivers meaningful, difference-making education and research for a rapidly changing world. Napier is ranked the number one modern university in the U.K. for Computer Science, Criminology, English, and Nursing (ST GUG 2023); top five U.K. Modern universities for Communications and Media Studies, Drama, Dance, and Cinematics; number one university in Edinburgh for student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2020, 2021, 2022); and the top university in Scotland for environmental sustainability and ethics (2022 People and Planet University League).
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Edinburgh
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Edinburgh. Edinburgh is home to a diverse, growing economy with opportunities across social enterprises, startups, public services, communications, arts and culture, environmental fields, and community organizations. Scotland is especially known for its strong social enterprise sector, while Edinburgh’s festivals, galleries, museums, and creative institutions offer exciting opportunities in the creative and cultural space. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Agriculture, Food + Natural Resources
- Arts, Audio/Video Technology + Communications
- Business Management + Administration
- Education + Training
- Finance
- Government + Public Administration
- Marketing, Sales + Service
Community Impact Initiative in Edinburgh
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Edinburgh by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In Edinburgh, your service work may include:
- Supporting food redistribution and community outreach efforts to reduce waste and address food insecurity with Goodies Charity
- Assisting with programs that support diverse ethnic minority communities, particularly young people and women, through Passion4Fusion
Edinburgh Study Abroad Programs
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- Edinburgh, Scotland
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- Edinburgh, Scotland
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- Edinburgh, Scotland
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- Edinburgh, Scotland
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Frequently Asked Questions
Known for its superior teaching and research quality, Edinburgh is an excellent city for international students to live and learn. In Scotland’s capital, you’ll receive a top-class education while immersing yourself in a culture famous for its proud heritage and unique charm. Join tens of thousands of international students who travel from around the world for Edinburgh study abroad.
Consistently recognized as one of the best cities for students to live and learn abroad, Edinburgh is a great place to take your studies. As a cultural hub, it should come as no surprise that Edinburgh is home to one of the largest art festivals in the world, the Edinburgh International Arts Festival, which takes place annually in August. Moreover, this historic capital boasts well-preserved architecture, a buzzing atmosphere, and rich Scottish tradition that will mesmerize you. Whether you’re looking to be entertained with live music in a traditional pub or be awe-struck with a dramatic performance, the options in Edinburgh are endless.
Read More: The Top 10 Best Places to Study Abroad for College Students
Considered the safest place to live in Great Britain, Edinburgh is a very safe city with low crime levels. As with any study abroad destination, we recommend that students keep their belongings secure, stay aware of their surroundings, and travel in groups when possible.
The cost of studying abroad in Edinburgh varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Edinburgh study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Edinburgh is a city where history, literature, and Scottish charm come together. From the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile and the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to bookshops, cozy cafés, and world-famous events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the city offers enriching cultural experiences around every corner.
The city is also known for its strong literary heritage, welcoming community, and deep connection to Scottish traditions. Whether you're attending a festival, visiting a museum, hiking Arthur's Seat, or enjoying live music with friends, Edinburgh is a wonderful city for students to explore.
While Edinburgh is deeply proud of its Scottish heritage, it is an international city that welcomes people from all around the world. International students quickly become part of a community where local traditions coexist with global influences, creating an environment that feels welcoming to students from all backgrounds.
Yes! Edinburgh is a very walkable city, particularly in the city center where many major attractions, restaurants, and museums are located close together. Students can easily explore areas like the Old Town, New Town, Princes Street, and the Royal Mile on foot.
For destinations that are farther away, public transportation makes it easy to travel throughout the city and beyond. Whether you're heading to class, meeting friends, exploring a new neighborhood, or taking a day trip nearby attractions, Edinburgh is easy to navigate.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Edinburgh with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Most students studying or interning abroad in Edinburgh will need to obtain the appropriate visa before departure. Visa requirements vary depending on your program type and length of stay. CIEE provides guidance throughout the visa process and helps students understand the required documentation and application steps for their specific program. Be sure to review the latest visa requirements well in advance of your departure to ensure a smooth arrival in Scotland.
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Edinburgh. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Edinburgh to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
Edinburgh Study Abroad Blog
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How to Study Abroad in Edinburgh
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
CIEE offers a variety of ways to study abroad in Edinburgh, including semester-long sessions, summer study abroad, and J-term, with program lengths ranging from four weeks to 18 weeks. With flexible options, it’s important to select a timeframe that makes sense with your personal and academic schedule.
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
After determining your timeframe, find a program that meets your academic and career goals. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and language courses, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and more. Choosing a program you’re passionate about will help you make the most of your Edinburgh study abroad experience!
Step #3: Verify Your Eligibility
Make sure you’re eligible to participate in CIEE’s Edinburgh study abroad offerings. Every program has its own requirements, but typically include a minimum GPA and often other course and credit requirements, too.
Step #4: Create Your Budget
While studying abroad in Edinburgh can be an affordable study abroad option, it’s always a smart idea to budget for other expenses, like incurred travel expenses, gifts, and food.
CIEE also offers millions in study abroad scholarships and grants each year based on several factors including financial need, academic merit, and other considerations, to allow you to make a study abroad dream a reality!
Step #5: Apply!
Now that you’ve found your program, you’re ready to apply! The application process is quite simple, but if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Just contact us!
Safety at CIEE Edinburgh
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Edinburgh
CIEE Edinburgh offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Edinburgh housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Edinburgh Staff
Jacqui Bassett
Center Director