Study Abroad in Edinburgh

College Study Abroad

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study abroad in edinburgh scotland

Explore Edinburgh, Scotland

Widely considered one of Britain’s crown jewels, Edinburgh is the staggering and inimitable capital city of Scotland, famed for its striking architecture, rich 1,000-year history, remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more. As the powerhouse of Scottish literary arts, comedy, culture, and education, Edinburgh is an incredible place to live and learn abroad.  

When you study abroad in Edinburgh, you’ll make one of the world’s top cities for international students your classroom. As a European center for financial services and biotech, Edinburgh's local universities are world leaders in fields like financial technology, Celtic studies, and biomedical and environmental sciences. Here, in southeastern Scotland close to the North Sea, you’ll quickly become captivated by the country’s best-preserved medieval buildings, literary heritage, historic cobblestone streets, and renowned museums. With its centuries-old architecture, streets, and castles, life in Edinburgh, Scotland beckons you. 

edinburgh study abroad
female study abroad student overlooking edinburgh
famous castle in edinburgh scotland

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 trip to Edinburgh Castle, a historic military fortress and royal residence situated on Castle Rock, which has been occupied since the Iron Age 
  • A visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland 
  • A tour of St. Giles’ Cathedral, an iconic Presbyterian place of worship   
  • Day trips to the Scottish Highlands, to visit wooded lochs and tucked away villages, and Glasgow, Scotland’s cultural epicenter and largest economy 

If you’re a student looking for an authentic study abroad experience in Edinburgh, our cultural excursions and tours allow you to do just that! Whether you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit famous sites, or make new friends, studying abroad in Edinburgh offers something for everyone. 

Where Students Study

Edinburgh Napier University
The Edinburgh Napier University nearly has 20.000 students from over 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 UK for Computer Science, Criminology, English, and Nursing (ST GUG 2023), and top five UK Modern universities for: Communications and Media Studies, Drama, Dance, and Cinematics. 

Edinburgh Study Abroad Programs

New Programs Coming in 2024

Summer 2024

  • Summer Arts + Culture
  • Summer Global Internship

January 2024

  • January in Edinburgh

Pocket Guide to Edinburgh

  • Currency
    Pound Sterling

    Spoken Language
    English

    Available Transportation
    Bus, tram, taxi

    Famous Local
    Sean Connery – Scottish actor famous for his portrayal of James Bond

  • Climate
    Cold and humid winters; mild summers

    Local Attraction
    Edinburgh Castle – a historic military fortress and royal residence

  • Airport
    Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

    Social Norms
    Being tardy to a class or meeting is considered ill-mannered; always arrive five minutes early

    What to Pack
    Waterproof shoes, warm and breathable clothing, and a wind resistant coat

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Edinburgh a good place to study abroad?

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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 between August and September. 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

Is Edinburgh safe?

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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.

Why study abroad in Edinburgh?

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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.

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

APPLY IN 1,2,3!

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: 

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program 
  2. Review all available funding opportunities 
  3. 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. 

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS