History
Founded in 1583, extraordinary is just something our community has always done.
Working together, for more than 400 years, we’ve influenced the world in extraordinary ways – expanding the depth of human knowledge and improving the lives of people worldwide.
Research conducted here led to the discovery of chloroform anaesthesia, the Higgs boson particle and in-vitro fertilisation.Education
The latest report from the Quality Assurance Agency awarded us the highest rating possible for the quality of the student learning experience. We offer more than 300 taught masters programmes and 180 research areas and over 80 online programmes.
Joining the University as a student provides you with a unique opportunity to work with some of the most influential academics in your chosen field. At Edinburgh, you will develop your specialist skills, deepen your understanding and gain new insights and perspectives to equip you for your career ahead.
As host to more than over 49,000 students from across 156 countries, we’re a wonderfully diverse mix of people of all kinds and minds.Research
We're one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, ranked 4th in the UK for research power (Times Higher Education, Overall Ranking of Institutions), with 90% of our research activity classified as world leading or internationally excellent in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
We are proudly open to everyone, bringing people with new outlooks and perspectives together in an international community that is establishing the data capital of Europe, tackling climate change and paving the way for new fertility treatments.
As a leading global university, we’re confident education will play a vital role solving the problems of tomorrow too.Career
We're ranked in the UK’s top 10 universities for the employability of our graduates* and our graduates are ranked 24th in the world by employers**.
We are committed to embedding employability into your teaching and learning experience. From offering access to volunteering schemes, to providing support via our sector-leading Careers Service, the University provides many opportunities to develop your skills, knowledge and experience, giving you the edge in a competitive job market. We also offer a free service to students who are looking to set up their own business, through Edinburgh Innovations.
*Times Higher Education, Global Employability University Ranking 2023/4
**QS World University Rankings 2025The University of Edinburgh Key Statistics & Highlights
- 68 Scholarships
- 49,485 Students
- 24,495 Students (int'l)
- 30,590 Students (female)
The University of Edinburgh Overview
The University of Edinburgh Scholarships
The University of Edinburgh Scholarships
Below you will find scholarships related to The University of Edinburgh. Distinction can be made between scholarships provided by the University and those provided by independent providers.
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The University of Edinburgh Student Reviews & Awards
Based on 11 reviews
- 5 Star 6 Reviews
- 4 Star 3 Reviews
- 3 Star 2 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
Flexible and High-Quality Learning
My experience in the online MSc in Internal Medicine at the University of Edinburgh has been extremely positive and impactful. The flexibility of the program has been one of its greatest strengths, allowing me to balance my studies with my professional responsibilities. This adaptability has been essential in enabling me to successfully complete the course without compromising my clinical work. The teaching quality has been excellent, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine and critical appraisal skills. The professors have been highly knowledgeable and, importantly, very approachable and supportive throughout the course. Their availability for guidance and discussion has made a significant difference in my learning experience. Studying at one of the top universities in the world has truly added value to the program. The academic rigor, international perspective, and high standards have pushed me to grow both intellectually and professionally. If I were to suggest an area for improvement, it would be related to administrative communication, which could sometimes be more streamlined. Overall, this has been a transformative and enriching experience that I would highly recommend.
A Rewarding journey of learning and growth
My overall study experience has been both rewarding and enriching. I have enjoyed learning from supportive teachers, working on practical projects, and developing strong technical and problem-solving skills throughout my degree. The program has helped me grow academically while also improving my confidence, teamwork, and communication abilities. One area that could be improved is providing students with more opportunities to connect with industry through internships, workshops, and professional training. As I prepare to start my internship soon, I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I have gained in a real-world environment. Overall, my studies have been a valuable experience that has prepared me well for future career opportunities.
Best Academic Decision as an African MLS.
When I decided to pursue a postgraduate qualification in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, I was both excited and cautious about committing to a fully online programme. I am based in Central Africa, specifically Bafoussam, Cameroon working full-time as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, and the idea of balancing a demanding clinical career with graduate-level academics felt ambitious. What the University of Edinburgh has delivered, however, has exceeded every expectation I had walking in. The online learning experience is far more immersive than I anticipated. The virtual learning environment is well-structured, intuitive, and rich with resources — recorded lectures, peer-reviewed reading materials, case-based discussions, and interactive assessments that genuinely test your depth of understanding rather than surface-level recall. The asynchronous format means I can engage with course content at times that work around my professional schedule, without ever feeling like I am getting a diluted version of what an on-campus student would receive. What stands out most is the academic quality of the content itself. Modules on antimicrobial resistance, clinical diagnostics, infection prevention and control, and microbial pathogenesis are taught at a level that bridges laboratory science with public health relevance — exactly what professionals in my field need. I regularly find myself applying concepts from the programme directly to situations I encounter at work, which makes the investment feel immediately and concretely valuable. For any healthcare or laboratory professional across Africa or the Global South looking to advance their expertise without uprooting their career or life, this programme is a genuine gateway. The University of Edinburgh brings its centuries-old academic reputation into a modern, accessible, and globally inclusive format and it shows in every module. I am proud to be part of this community.
Student services
All our postgraduates benefit from our inspiring research culture. The academics involved in your teaching and learning are leaders in their fields and although the emphasis at postgraduate level is very much on independent study, support from our teaching staff is always on hand.
You will be supported by a combination of academic and professional student experience and administration staff, who will provide you with academic and wellbeing guidance and support.
International students will be supported with events and information to settle in and with activities designed to support your experiences as a student.Housing services
Our students travel from all over the world to study here and we aim to provide the best range and standard of accommodation possible.
Accommodation for postgraduate students is self-catered and can be found across a range of halls and flats. Flats vary in size, from four to six single study-bedrooms, and are located within easy reach of the University's buildings and the city centre.
The University guarantees an offer of accommodation if:
you are a new, single postgraduate research (typically PhD) student;
- you are a new, single postgraduate taught (PGT) student, from outside the UK.
Please note that there are certain deadlines to meet in order to guarantee your accommodation offer.
Library services
At Edinburgh you will have access to 10 libraries, including the third largest academic library in Europe, millions of printed and online volumes and access to 700,000 electronic journals and databases.
ICT services
We have an extensive computing network with a variety of open-access machines and specialised computer labs spread across our campus.
You'll benefit from:
- 100 open-access computers in University cafe areas
- over 70 open-access computers in University study pods and study rooms
- 24-hour computer access in key locations
- almost 100% Wi-Fi coverage in our buildings
- free laptop loans from our libraries
Medical services
We care about the health and wellbeing of our students and offer a number of services to ensure you are fully supported.
Our Health and Wellbeing Centre, a dedicated hub for students, t houses the Student Counselling Service and Disability Services, the University Health Centre and the University Pharmacy.
Campus life
The University is at the heart of the city of Edinburgh. Regularly voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world, Edinburgh is large enough to offer something for everyone but small enough to feel like home. It is a modern, sophisticated and beautiful European city, with a diverse multicultural community and is ranked 2nd best student city in the United Kingdom, 6th best student city in Europe and 13th in the world*.
* QS Best Student Cities 2025Sports facilities
We’ve long been recognised as one of the UK’s leading sporting universities, consistently finishing in the top four of the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) rankings.
Our facilities include:
- Pleasance Sport Complex and Gym, offering over 20 gym and sport spaces, including extensive cardio, weight and conditioning spaces.
- Outdoor sport at Peffermill Playing Fields.
- Climbing/bouldering walls.
- 40 station satellite gym at the Easter Bush Campus.
- 25m swimming pool in the St Leonard’s Land Building.
- Climbing wall and bouldering room at the Pleasance.
- Year-round programme of over 100 exercise classes a week.
- Flexible and affordable membership packages.
- Expert instructors to guide, support and encourage you.
Student clubs
Edinburgh University Students’ Association supports more than 350 student-led societies and clubs covering a diverse range of interests, so you’re sure to find something of interest. If not, we can help you set up your own. Societies provide a place to meet like-minded people, indulge in a hobby, or simply socialise.
The Students’ Association also offers opportunities for volunteering in the community, so you may find yourself volunteering as a tour guide at a local heritage centre or playing football with local kids. These rewarding experiences will develop your skills and enhance your employability.