Scotland

Country snapshot

• Capital: Edinburgh

• Languages: English (Scots & Scottish Gaelic also used)

• Dial code: +44

• Currency: British Pound (GBP)

• Main intakes: September/October (Autumn) and January (Spring) for many programmes

Why study in Scotland?

Degrees are internationally respected, teaching is practical and research-driven, and campuses are diverse and friendly. Graduate employability is strong, with placements and industry links across tech, finance, engineering, health, creative industries, and the energy sector.

Key benefits

• Prestigious universities with global reputations

• Strong research culture and hands-on learning

• Thriving sectors: data/AI, fintech, games, engineering, life sciences, renewable energy

• Multicultural cities and close-knit student communities

• Stunning outdoors: Highlands, islands, and national parks

Eligibility (general)

• Undergraduate: Secondary school completion meeting course prerequisites

• Postgraduate: Relevant bachelor’s degree (minimum classification depends on programme)

• English proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or equivalent (waivers possible in some cases)

• Extras (course-dependent): Portfolio (design/arts), auditions (performing arts), work experience (MBA)

Required documents (typical)

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts & certificates (with official translations if needed)

• English test results (if required)

• Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose

• 1–2 Letters of Recommendation

• CV/Resume (where applicable)

• Financial evidence for visa (tuition + living costs)

Visa (Student route) — overview

• Offer from an approved institution and CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

• Proof of funds (tuition balance + living costs, amounts vary by location)

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment

• Online application, biometrics/identity checks, and decision letter

• On arrival: collect BRP/digital status as instructed

Work during & after studies

• During studies: Commonly up to 20 hrs/week in term (full-time in official vacations where permitted)

• After studies: Graduate visa typically allows up to 2 years of post-study work (up to 3 years for PhD graduates)

Costs (guide numbers)

(Actual fees vary by course and university.)

• Tuition — Undergraduate: ~£15,000 – £35,000+ per year (medicine & specialist programmes higher)

• Tuition — Postgraduate: ~£14,000 – £32,000+ per year

• Living expenses: ~£900 – £1,600+ per month (Edinburgh/Glasgow on the higher end)

• Health surcharge (IHS): payable for the visa duration; provides access to the NHS

Top universities (examples)

• University of Edinburgh

• University of Glasgow

• University of St Andrews

• University of Strathclyde

• University of Aberdeen

• Heriot-Watt University

• University of Dundee

• University of Stirling

Scholarships & funding (examples)

• University merit/entrance awards and fee discounts

• Faculty/department scholarships and research studentships (PG)

• Country- or programme-specific funding schemes

• Alumni/early-payment bursaries (institution-dependent)

Application steps

1. Shortlist courses and universities (entry criteria, deadlines, portfolio/tests if any)

2. Prepare documents (transcripts, SOP, references, English test, CV/portfolio where needed)

3. Submit applications (undergraduate often via UCAS; postgraduate usually direct to the university)

4. Receive and accept your offer; pay deposit if required; request CAS

5. Apply for the Student visa (IHS + financial evidence)

6. Arrange accommodation, insurance, and travel

7. Arrive for enrolment, induction, and settling-in support