The University of Edinburgh: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

In 2025, the University of Edinburgh secured the 27th position in the QS World Rankings, showing a consistent presence among the global top 30. It also ranked 29th in THE World Rankings and 38th in U.S. News. 

These rankings matter because they reflect the university’s teaching quality, research strength, and global reputation. If you’re aiming for a top-tier education that’s recognised worldwide, you need to consider how the university performs across these ranking bodies.

Look through the table below to understand how the University of Edinburgh’s rank has shifted in recent years.

You’ve seen how the university performs overall; it’s time to break it down further. Discover the top subjects in which the University of Edinburgh consistently earns high global rankings.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

If you’re applying for a specific subject, overall rankings alone won’t help. You need to know how the University of Edinburgh performs in your chosen area. For instance, it ranks among the top 5 globally for Medicine and top 15 for Arts & Humanities. 

These rankings are based on academic reputation, research output, and employer preference.

Check the table below to see how top disciplines at the University of Edinburgh rank globally in 2025.

Want to know where the University of Edinburgh stands on preferred subjects? Visit our University of Edinburgh rankings page for detailed information on how various ranking bodies assess it. 

Now let’s take a closer look at where you’ll be studying at the University of Edinburgh. The next section explores all five campuses of the institution. 

University of Edinburgh Campuses

The University of Edinburgh operates five main campuses, each dedicated to specific academic disciplines and research areas. These campuses are strategically located across the city and its outskirts, providing tailored facilities and environments for various fields of study. 

Understanding the unique focus of each campus can help you align your academic interests with the university's resources.​

Here are the five primary campuses of the University of Edinburgh:

• 1. Central Area (George Square)
  • McEwan Hall: Completed in 1897, this Italian Renaissance-style auditorium serves as the university's graduation hall and is a Category A listed building.
  • Gordon Aikman Lecture Theatre: With a seating capacity of 481, it's the university's largest lecture facility and also functions as a venue for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.1
  • 40 George Square: Formerly known as the David Hume Tower, this 14-story building is a prominent example of Scottish Modernist architecture and houses various teaching spaces and offices.
• 2. King's Buildings
  • FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility: This unique 25-meter diameter wave and current test tank is primarily focused on testing marine energy technologies and projects.
  • KB101 Campaign: In 2021, the university celebrated over 100 years of science and engineering at King's Buildings with the KB101 campaign, which included a lecture series and newly commissioned artworks.
  • Student Facilities: The campus offers various student amenities, including multiple cafés, a student union with dining options, and recreational facilities like badminton and squash courts
• 3. Easter Bush
  • Agritech Hub: A £74 million investment is establishing a new Agritech Hub aimed at improving agricultural efficiency and output, enhancing global food security, and promoting net-zero carbon initiatives.
  • Roslin Institute: Known for cloning Dolly the Sheep, the institute continues to lead in animal biosciences and food security research. 
  • Academic Community: The campus is home to over 1,000 scientists, lecturers, and clinicians, making it Europe's largest concentration of animal science research expertise.
• 4. BioQuarter (Little France)
  • Health Innovation District: A £1 billion expansion plan aims to transform BioQuarter into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood, supporting a community of more than 20,000 people and creating an estimated 9,000 new jobs.
  • Medical Research Facilities: The site hosts the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, the Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, and the Edinburgh Medical School, contributing to its status as a leading health innovation location.
  • Bioinformatics Hub: BioQuarter houses the largest bioinformatics hub in Europe, with co-located institutions like the Usher Institute and the Administrative Data Research Centre. 
• 5. Western General
  • Institute of Genetics and Cancer: This institute focuses on pioneering work in genetics, oncology, and precision medicine, contributing to major discoveries in genetic disorders and targeted cancer therapies.
  • Clinical Integration: Proximity to the Western General Hospital enables integrated clinical studies, supporting research in genetics and oncology. 

Now let's explore the admissions process for 2025 to help you prepare your application effectively.

​The University of Edinburgh follows a fixed intake pattern with most undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting in September. For undergraduate non-Medicine courses, the UCAS deadline is 14 January 2026. 

Medicine and Veterinary programs have an earlier deadline of 15 October 2025. For postgraduate taught degrees like MSc Management or MBA, the final date to apply is 11 June 2025. Knowing these dates helps you prepare documents and complete the application process on time.

Check the table below to find the correct intake and last application date for your selected course.

With deadlines in place, your next focus should be on the programs and specialisations you can apply for. Let’s go over the wide course offerings at the University of Edinburgh.

Admission to the University of Edinburgh is selective, with clear academic, language, and test score benchmarks. Undergraduate applicants typically need at least 80% in CBSE or ISC, while postgraduate candidates must hold a minimum of 60% or a GPA of 8 out of 10. 

Courses like Medicine require a UCAT score of at least 2450, and postgraduate programs in Finance may ask for a GRE score of 315. To get your visa approved, you must show proof of £1,136 (INR 1.28L) per month to cover living expenses.

Start by understanding the core admission requirements. These include academic scores, language test scores, and qualifying exams for specific programs.

Admission Requirements

To secure admission at the University of Edinburgh, you must meet detailed requirements across academic qualifications, language proficiency, competitive exams, and visa documents. 

For undergraduate courses, you’ll typically need at least 80% in CBSE or ISC, while postgraduate applicants need a bachelor's degree with 60% or GPA 8/10. IELTS 6.5 with no component below 5.5 is the standard language benchmark for most programs. For visa approval, you must show proof of £1,136 (INR 1.28L) per month to cover living costs.

Go through each admission component below carefully. Start by checking if your academic scores match the program entry requirements.

Academic Qualification

The University of Edinburgh requires a minimum of 80% in Class XII for most undergraduate courses, while top programs like Medicine demand at least 85% in core subjects. 

For postgraduate programs, you must hold a bachelor’s degree with 60% or a GPA of 8/10. These numbers reflect the academic rigour the university expects across programs and boards.

Review the table below to see what academic scores are required across major Indian boards and programs.

Note: Postgraduate degrees are not structured for year-wise lateral entry.

Language Proficiency

To study at the University of Edinburgh, you must show that you meet the English language requirements. If you scored 75% in English in CBSE or CISCE, it’s accepted for undergraduate admission, but not for postgraduate programs. For postgraduate degrees, you need standardised test scores like IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 92.​

The table below outlines accepted qualifications and minimum scores for undergraduate and postgraduate entry.

Note: For postgraduate programs, the CBSE/CISCE and State Board English scores are not accepted as sole proof of English proficiency; an additional approved English language test is required.

Competitive Exams

​Some programs at the University of Edinburgh require competitive exam scores. For undergraduate Medicine (MBChB), UCAT is mandatory with a minimum score of 2450. Postgraduate courses like the MSc in Economics or Finance demand GRE or GMAT scores. For Graduate Entry Medicine, MCAT is also accepted.

Check the table below to find which exams are needed and what score you should aim for.

Note: GMAT (600 or 555 Focus Edition) and GRE (315 for MSc Climate Change Finance and Investment) are optional but welcomed if available.

Visa Requirements

Once you receive an offer from the University of Edinburgh, applying for a UK student visa is the next step. You must present specific documents, including a valid passport, CAS letter, and proof of funds. 

For Edinburgh, you’ll need to show financial evidence covering tuition plus living costs of £1,136 (INR 1.28L) per month for up to 9 months.

Use the table below to make sure you gather every document required before starting your visa process.

Once your visa preparation is sorted, the next thing to keep an eye on is the application calendar. You need to apply well in advance based on your preferred intake to avoid missing deadlines.

For complete application guidance, visit University of Edinburgh admission page for updated details on deadlines, eligibility, and how to apply confidently.

Let’s now break down the application dates and intake windows you should plan around.

The University of Edinburgh offers over 700 academic programs across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These span multiple disciplines, including STEM, Medicine, Law, and Business. 

With specialised schools like the Edinburgh Medical School, School of Informatics, and Edinburgh Law School, you’ll find a focused structure that supports deep academic engagement. 

The university's interdisciplinary approach and industry-aligned curriculum make it a preferred choice for students from over 130 countries.

Below is a snapshot of the key program areas you can choose from at the University of Edinburgh.

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Includes programs in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, and Computer Science, such as BSc Artificial Intelligence and MSc Data Science.
• Medicine and Health Sciences: Home to the Edinburgh Medical School and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, offering MBChB, MSc in Public Health, and more.
• Business and Economics: Features degrees like MBA, MSc Finance, MSc Economics, and undergraduate Business Management with internship options.
• Law and Social Sciences: Offers LLB programs and master’s degrees in International Law, Political Science, and Social Policy.
• Arts and Humanities: Courses in Philosophy, Literature, History, and Languages through the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Education and Psychology: Popular programs include MSc Education, MSc Psychology of Mental Health, and BEd Primary Education.
• Environmental and Climate Sciences: MSc programs in Climate Change Finance, Environmental Sustainability, and Ecological Economics.

Now that you’ve explored your academic options, it’s time to review the expected tuition fees. Let’s break down the program-wise fee structure for international students.

Recent undergraduate admissions data indicates that the University of Edinburgh's acceptance rate is 47%. The rigorous entrance requirements and admissions standards of the institution are depicted in this image. You can greatly improve your chances of being admitted to the University of Edinburgh by maintaining a high academic record. 

A strong academic background and a high degree of English language ability are prerequisites for admission to any course at Edinburgh University. To improve their chances of being admitted to the University of Edinburgh, applicants are encouraged to submit a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) and get strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs).

Studying at the University of Edinburgh involves more than just tuition fees. The annual cost depends on your course and level of study. 

For example, MBA tuition is £43,300 (INR 48.9L), while Arts and Humanities programs start at £25,300 (INR 28.5L) per year. These numbers help you estimate the minimum financial commitment before applying for a visa or planning your budget.

Refer to the table below for the current annual tuition fee across selected programs.

Now that you’ve reviewed tuition fees, you also need to plan for living expenses while studying in Edinburgh. Let’s break down monthly living costs across accommodation types and essential categories.

Living in Edinburgh requires budgeting for accommodation, food, utilities, and other essentials. University housing starts at £370 (INR 41.8K) per month, while private rentals can cost around £500–£700 (INR 56.5K–79.1K). These figures help you calculate your monthly needs and compare housing options wisely.

The table below compares monthly living costs for students staying in university vs private accommodation.

After planning your living and tuition expenses, the next smart step is to look into scholarships. Let’s now explore the top scholarships available for international students at the University of Edinburgh.

Program fees at the University of Edinburgh vary based on the degree level and discipline. While undergraduate degrees in Arts start at £25,300 (INR 28.5L) per year, Medicine is priced at £49,900 (INR 56.3L) annually. 

Postgraduate taught programs such as MSc Data Science or Finance typically cost £30,900 (INR 34.9L) for the full year. Knowing these amounts early will help you plan your finances and apply for the right scholarships or funding options.

Use the table below to review tuition fees for key undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Note: Currency conversions are approximate (1 GBP = 113 INR). Tuition fees vary based on the specialization

Once you know the tuition fees, you should calculate the additional costs of living in Edinburgh. Let’s now look at the estimated living expenses during your study.

The University of Edinburgh offers 250+ scholarships for students in 2025. Internal options include the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which covers full tuition, accommodation, and living costs. External awards like the Chevening Scholarship provide comprehensive funding, including visa and travel expenses. 

You can also apply for country-specific support such as the Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship, which offers up to USD 100K (INR 85L). These scholarships help reduce your financial burden while pursuing a top-ranked education.

Start by reviewing internal scholarships offered directly by the University of Edinburgh. These awards are based on course type, academic merit, and regional eligibility.

Internal Scholarships

​The University of Edinburgh is offering up to £10,000 (INR 11.3L) through the GREAT Scholarships for one-year master’s programs. Mathematics undergraduates can receive £5,000 (INR 5.6L) per year to support their living expenses. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive coverage, including full tuition, accommodation, travel, and additional benefits. 

These internal scholarships target both academic merit and regional eligibility, helping you manage costs without compromising on course choices.

Go through the table below to find specific scholarships you may qualify for based on your course and study mode.

After reviewing internal funding options, turn your attention to scholarships offered by external bodies. These can also be used toward studying at the University of Edinburgh.

External Scholarships

Several high-value external scholarships are available for international students enrolling at the University of Edinburgh. The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, covers full tuition and includes allowances for travel and living. 

Indian students can also apply for the Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship, which offers up to USD 100K (INR 85L). These awards offer substantial financial aid for highly competitive postgraduate programs.

Check the table below to explore external scholarships that align with your course and nationality.

Once your funding is in place, it’s important to know what comes after graduation. Let’s now take a look at placements and employment outcomes at the University of Edinburgh.

At the University of Edinburgh, student life is vibrant and diverse, offering numerous opportunities to engage beyond academics. With over 290 student-led societies and more than 70 sports clubs, you can pursue a wide range of interests, from academic and cultural to recreational and athletic activities. ​

Explore the various avenues to enrich your university experience:

• Sports Clubs: Join any of the 70+ sports clubs, including archery, athletics, hockey, trampolining, and Taekwondo. These clubs cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. 
• Student Societies: Participate in over 290 societies ranging from a cappella and yoga to academic and cultural groups. If you don't find a society that matches your interests, you have the option to start your own. ​
• Intramural Sports: Engage in Scotland’s largest intramural sports program, offering leagues and tournaments in sports like football, basketball, hockey, netball, rugby, and squash. 
• Volunteering Opportunities: Get involved in various volunteering activities through the university's programs, enhancing your skills and contributing to the community. ​
• Cultural and Arts Events: Attend numerous cultural events, including theatre productions, music concerts, and art exhibitions, many of which are student-led initiatives. ​
• Student Facilities: Utilize facilities like Teviot Row House, the oldest purpose-built student union building in the world, which hosts various student activities and events.

Next, let's explore some of the notable alumni who have walked the halls of the University of Edinburgh.

The University of Edinburgh offers strong career support and placement outcomes. Graduates earn an average salary of £49,500 (INR 56.3L) within five years of completing their studies. The full-time MBA program reports a 95% employment rate within six months of graduation.

Here are the key placement services and outcomes you can expect:

• Dedicated Careers Service: Provides personalized guidance, job search support, and access to MyCareerHub, an online jobs board featuring opportunities during and after studies.
• Employer Engagement: Facilitates interactions with a wide range of employers through events like the 'Careers in Engineering Fair' and 'Careers in Law Fair'.
• Alumni Network Access: Offers connections to a global alumni network of over 300,000 individuals, providing insights and opportunities across various industries.
• Internship Programs: Supports structured internship opportunities, including the 'Employ.ed on Campus' program for undergraduates.
• Global Placement Opportunities: Enables students to undertake international placements as part of their degree programs, enhancing global employability.
• Post-Study Work Visa Support: Provides guidance on the UK Graduate Route visa, allowing graduates to work in the UK for up to two years post-graduation.

Now that you understand the university's placement support and average salary outcomes, it’s also helpful to know which companies recruit graduates.

Let’s look at some of the top recruiters hiring directly from the University of Edinburgh.

Top Recruiters

Many global companies actively recruit from the University of Edinburgh across sectors like finance, consulting, healthcare, and technology. Employers value graduates for their research training, analytical thinking, and international exposure. Knowing these companies will help you set clearer career goals and prepare accordingly.

Here are some of the top recruiters you should know about. These organisations consistently hire graduates from multiple programs at Edinburgh.

• Accenture
• PwC
• Deloitte
• EY
• KPMG
• Amazon
• Google
• Microsoft
• Morgan Stanley
• HSBC
• J.P. Morgan
• Barclays
• GSK
• NHS
• Scottish Government

After learning about employment partners, it’s time to compare Edinburgh with its regional and international peers.  Let’s see how the University of Edinburgh stands against the University of Glasgow and the University of Zurich.

University of Edinburgh V/S University of Glasgow V/S University of Zurich: Which is Better?

Choosing between the University of Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow, and the University of Zurich requires a close look at rankings, course offerings, tuition, and placement results. Edinburgh ranks #27 in the QS World Rankings 2025, ahead of Glasgow at #78 and Zurich at #109. 

While Zurich offers lower tuition, Edinburgh and Glasgow stand out for higher placement rates and broader course availability. If international reputation and English-taught programs matter to you, these differences can guide your choice.

Review the table below to compare key academic and career-related parameters across the three universities.

The University of Edinburgh ranks highest at #27 and offers the widest course range with strong placement support and an average salary of £49,500 (INR 56.3L). Glasgow, ranked #78, matches Edinburgh’s placement rate but offers fewer programs. 

Its MBA salary is slightly higher at £53,000 (INR 60.1L). Zurich, while the most affordable with fees starting at CHF 250 (INR 23K), has a lower placement rate of 75% despite high salaries. 

Overall, Edinburgh offers the best balance of global ranking, academic choice, and employability.

Now that you have compared academic and placement outcomes, it’s equally important to understand life on campus. Let’s look at what student life is like at the University of Edinburgh.

The University of Edinburgh has a global alumni network of over 300,000 individuals spread across 190 countries. This includes pioneers in science, literature, politics, medicine, and innovation. The university’s graduates have founded theories, won Nobel Prizes, led countries, and shaped industries. 

Explore the table below to learn about some of the University of Edinburgh’s most accomplished alumni.

With a history of producing game-changers across fields, the University of Edinburgh offers more than a degree. It offers a launchpad.