University of Highlands and Islands

The University of Highlands and Islands occupies a unique position in global higher education. QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) rankings consistently rank it within the top 50-100 universities globally. In 2022, its global ranking by CWUR (Center for World University Rankings) stood at #1839 out of 1994 universities worldwide, underlining its growing influence in the global academic landscape. 

Undergraduate Admission Process:

Application Portal: Applicants can apply through the UCAS Application Portal or the International Application Form, depending on their nationality and course of interest.

Application Fee: The application fee for undergraduate programs is £20 GBP.

Postgraduate Admission Process:

Application Portal: Prospective postgraduate students can apply online through the University Postgraduate Admissions Application.

• Admission Requirements: Applicants must typically meet the following criteria:
• Hold a 2:2 (or above) UK Honors degree or its international equivalent.
• Submit a personal statement.
• Provide two references.
• Furnish personal and contact details.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency.
• Submit official transcripts from previously attended colleges/universities.
• Provide translations of transcripts if required.
• Deadlines: It is advisable for international students to apply well in advance of the deadlines.
• Visa completion should be done at least 3 months before the start of the semester.
• Applications made after 1 July will be assessed, and decisions/interviews will be provided by mid-August.

Applicants receiving decision/interview dates by 31 March must respond by May 1.

UHI offers various programs across various fields, including Accounting, Administration and Information Technology, Agriculture, Engineering, Applied Sciences, Arboriculture, Archaeology, Business and Management, Computer Science, and Hospitality. Prospective students should visit the course page for their chosen program to access specific application details and requirements.

Documents Required for University of Highlands and Islands

• Academic high school/bachelor record.
• Official Transcript Translated into English and evaluated by an authorized agency.
• English Proficiency Proof
• Personal Statement
• Bank Statement
• Passport Copy
• Resume with reference to workplace
• Health Insurance

Exam Requirements for University of Highlands and Islands

International students applying to the University of Highlands and Islands are required to demonstrate their English proficiency by providing scores from English proficiency exams. The university accepts several English language tests, and the minimum required scores for different levels of study are as follows:

For HNC/D (Higher National Certificate/Diploma):

• IELTS: 5.5
• CPE (Cambridge English Proficiency): 162 (minimum 158 in each section)
• CAE (Cambridge English Advanced): 162 (minimum 158 in each section)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): 50
• International Baccalaureate English: Higher - 4, Standard - 5
• TOEFL: 72 (minimum 17 in each section)
• OET (Occupational English Test): For Nursing, between 350-440 (Writing Score between 300-340), or Grade B for subtests (before Sept 2018)
• Cambridge IGCSE English: English as 1st Language - Grade C, English as 2nd Language - Grade B
• LanguageCert International ESOL: ESOL SELT B2 (Pass required in each section), ESOL B2 Communicator (Pass required in each section)

For Undergraduates:

• IELTS: 6.0 (Nursing only for Non-UK), 7.0 (except writing at 6.5)
• CPE (Cambridge English Proficiency): 169 (minimum 162 in each section)
• CAE (Cambridge English Advanced): 169 (minimum 162 in each section)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): 58 (51 in each section)
• International Baccalaureate English: Higher - 4, Standard - 5
• TOEFL: 80 (minimum 18 in each section)

For Graduates:

• IELTS: 6.0
• CPE (Cambridge English Proficiency): 176 (minimum 162 in each section)
• CAE (Cambridge English Advanced): 176 (minimum 162 in each section)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): 62 (55 in each section)
• International Baccalaureate English: Higher - 5, Standard - 6
• TOEFL: 92 (minimum 20 in each section)

Nestled amidst the picturesque Scottish Highlands and Islands, the University of Highlands and Islands features a captivating and varied campus that spans multiple locations. It provides students with access to cutting-edge facilities, including modern libraries, laboratories, and recreational areas, all harmoniously integrated into the breathtaking natural surroundings.

As for lodging, the university caters to a spectrum of student preferences. These encompass on-campus dormitories, off-campus apartments, and private rentals. The pricing structure is contingent on the location and type of accommodation. On-campus housing typically falls within the range of £4,000 to £6,000 per academic year, while off-campus rental rates exhibit considerable variability.

Course Fees for Undergraduate Programs:

Course Fees for Postgraduate Programs:

Cost of Living:

The University of Highlands and Islands offers several scholarships and funds to support students in pursuing higher education. Here are a few notable scholarship opportunities:

Reid Endowment Fund

Deadline: June and December

Eligibility: Undergraduate students.

This fund provides financial assistance to undergraduate students pursuing their studies at the university. It supports students aiming to excel in their chosen fields of study.

Rural and Islands Bursary Fund:

Deadline: October 31, 2023.

Eligibility: Undergraduate students

Designed for students from rural and island communities, this bursary fund helps alleviate financial burdens associated with higher education, making it more accessible to those in remote areas.

Saltire Scholarships:

Status: Currently not open to receive applications

Eligibility: Postgraduate students

Saltire Scholarships are prestigious awards offered to international students pursuing postgraduate studies in Scotland. Although currently closed, they provide significant financial support to exceptional students when applications reopen.

Scottish Land Commission Prize:

Deadline: Autumn

Eligibility: Further Education, Postgraduate, Undergraduate Students

This prize recognizes and rewards students who engage with the Scottish Land Commission's work and contribute to Scotland's land reform and rural development. It is open to students across various levels of study.

Please note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and deadlines may change yearly. Prospective students are advised to regularly check the university's official website for the most up-to-date information on scholarships and application details.