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How To Get Into University of Edinburgh

  • May 13, 2025
Admitix Editorial Team

Dreaming of the University of Edinburgh?

Ranked #22 globally in QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Edinburgh (UoE) is where centuries of tradition meet next-generation innovation.

University of Edinburgh Admissions Indian Students
Credit: University of Edinburgh

Why Choose University of Edinburgh?

Founded in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the six ancient universities of Britain and the fourth-oldest in the English-speaking world.

It is the birthplace of Harry Potter, home of Charles Darwin, and the land of thinkers, rebels, and tech entrepreneurs.

  • Top 5 UK university for research power (REF 2021)
  • Ranked 6th in Europe for innovation (Reuters)
  • Edinburgh named UK’s best student city (QS Best Student Cities 2024)
  • AI, neuroscience, literary studies, and climate science hubs
  • Campus blended between cobblestone charm and state-of-the-art labs

Learn From Legends, Work With Leaders

From Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to Nobel-winning physicists – Edinburgh isn’t just an academic home, it’s a launchpad.

  • Peter Higgs, Nobel Laureate, theorist behind the Higgs boson
  • Informatics Forum: A global leader in AI and cognitive science
  • Collaborations with NASA, CERN, UN, and the European Space Agency
  • 30+ research institutes including Usher Institute and Bayes Centre
  • Key role in global COVID-19 genomics and vaccine policy shaping

Research With Real-World Impact

“The work we do here touches every part of the world, from Antarctic ice cores to African health systems.”

  • £500+ million in research funding annually
  • Top UK institution for medical and veterinary research
  • Advancing work in synthetic biology, carbon capture, and public health
  • Part of EDINA – driving digital innovation for governments, NGOs, and startups

Edinburgh’s Signature Strength: Interdisciplinary Excellence

The University of Edinburgh is a place where your degree doesn’t box you in – it opens doors across fields.

  • Design Informatics: Where tech meets art
  • Cognitive Science + Philosophy: Exploring the mind from every angle
  • Dual honours and flexible degrees with 300+ combinations
  • Joint degrees with top EU/UK partners through Erasmus+ and UNA Europa

Career Outcomes & Internships

From Royal Mile to Global Reach

  • 95%+ of Edinburgh grads are employed or in further study within 15 months
  • 500+ employer partners including Google, WHO, PwC, BBC, BCG
  • Internship and placement opportunities via Edinburgh Futures Institute
  • Global alumni network: 300,000+ across 180 countries

Work & Post-Study Options

UK’s Graduate Route visa = 2 years post-study work rights (3 years for PhDs)

  • University Career Service offers tailored support for international students
  • Strong recruitment in health, AI, data science, and finance
  • OPT/STEM-equivalent benefits in UK + easy transitions to EU/US job markets

Getting Into University of Edinburgh – Eligibility Checklist

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

CriteriaTypical Expectations
High School GradesAAB–AAA (A-Levels) / 36–42 (IB) / 90%+ (CBSE/ISC)
Standardized TestsSAT/ACT not required for UK students; International applicants may submit if relevant
English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5–7.5 / TOEFL iBT 92–110 / Duolingo English Test 115–135
Additional RequirementsPortfolio for Art/Design, Admissions Tests for Medicine/Vet, etc.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

CriteriaTypical Expectations
Undergraduate GPA3.3–3.7+ / UK 2:1 or above
English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0+ or TOEFL equivalent
GRE/GMATOptional, unless program specifies
OtherSOP, academic/professional LORs, CV/Resume, research proposal for PhD applicants

How To Strengthen Your Edinburgh Application

ComponentTips
Statement of Purpose (SOP)Clearly express why Edinburgh, why this program, and what impact you want to make. Be authentic and focused.
Portfolio (Creative Degrees)Show range and depth. Add sketchbooks, project work, and development process if possible.
Letters of RecommendationChoose recommenders who can speak to your academic character, research curiosity, and resilience.
Work/Research SamplesPublications, GitHub links, policy briefs, or creative work samples can set you apart.

Cost & Scholarships at University of Edinburgh

ExpenseApproximate Annual Cost (GBP)
Tuition£22,000 – £35,000 (varies by program)
Living Expenses£10,000 – £15,000
Health InsuranceFree under NHS (for visa holders with IHS paid)
Application FeeNone (for most programs)

Scholarships & Fellowships

NameWho It’s ForBenefit
Edinburgh Global Research ScholarshipsInternational PhD studentsCovers tuition gap for non-UK students
Chevening / CommonwealthInternational PG applicantsFully funded master’s programs
GREAT ScholarshipsSelect countries (India, China, etc.)Up to £10,000 towards tuition
School-Specific Awardse.g., Business School, InformaticsMerit-based tuition reductions

You Might Also Like: How To Get Into Cardiff University

Need Personalized Help?

Let Admitix guide your path to the University of Edinburgh – from program selection to SOP reviews, we’ll help you build an application that reflects your potential and passion.

Book your consultation today!

FAQs

1. How competitive is admission to the University of Edinburgh?

Very – especially for programs in Medicine, International Relations, and Informatics. A strong academic record and a focused SOP are key.

2. What is Edinburgh best known for?

AI, Neuroscience, Medicine, Literature, Philosophy, Climate Research, and Informatics.

3. Can I work while studying?

Yes, up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during breaks. Plus, UoE offers part-time roles on campus and internships year-round.

4. Are there funding options for international students?

Absolutely – from University Global Scholarships to UK Government fellowships like Chevening and Commonwealth.

5. Do I need to take the IELTS?

If English isn’t your first language, yes. However, Duolingo, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic are also accepted.