The Student Room Group

Why Choose Edinburgh for Your Studies?

Hello Everyone,

Here are some of the top reasons to choose Edinburgh as a student, whether considering Heriot-Watt or any other institution in this vibrant city.

Rich Cultural Experience: Edinburgh seamlessly blends history with modernity. From its historic cobbled streets and stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural festivals and arts scene, there’s always something to inspire and engage students.

Top Student City: Ranked 15th in the world and 2nd in the UK by QS Best Student Cities, Edinburgh offers a diverse and inclusive atmosphere with a vibrant student population of one-fifth of the city's residents.

Dynamic Lifestyle: With over 400 pubs and clubs, exciting nightlife, and countless cafes and bars, students can enjoy a rich social life. The city also offers various live music, theatres, galleries, and shops to explore.

Outstanding Natural Beauty: Edinburgh’s natural landscape is breathtaking, from the iconic Arthur’s Seat to its numerous public parks and green spaces. It’s perfect for students who enjoy outdoor activities and need a peaceful retreat from their studies.

Excellent Sporting Facilities: Home to Oriam, Scotland’s Sports Performance Centre, as well as top-tier venues for football, rugby, swimming, and more, Edinburgh is a haven for sports enthusiasts.

International Groceries: Edinburgh boasts various supermarkets and specialty stores, including European, Chinese, Indian, African, and many others. These ensure that international students can find familiar groceries and feel connected to home, making the transition to a new city much smoother.

Safe and Welcoming: Voted the safest city in the UK and the best place to live by the Quality of Life Index, Edinburgh offers a welcoming and friendly environment for international students, ensuring a comfortable and secure living experience.


These are some of the top reasons I chose Edinburgh, and I have enjoyed all of these aspects throughout my degree program. I hope this helps anyone unfamiliar with student life in Edinburgh.

Feel free to share anything else you find interesting or consider an important part of your student experience. If you have any doubts or questions about living here, I’m happy to help with what I know from my experience.

Cheers,
Shri (MSc International Business Student).
I’ve not studied at Edinburgh before but I’ve been to the area and it was nice, the people were friendly, maybe better than in England.
Original post by Heriot-Watt Uni
Hello Everyone,
Here are some of the top reasons to choose Edinburgh as a student, whether considering Heriot-Watt or any other institution in this vibrant city.

Rich Cultural Experience: Edinburgh seamlessly blends history with modernity. From its historic cobbled streets and stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural festivals and arts scene, there’s always something to inspire and engage students.

Top Student City: Ranked 15th in the world and 2nd in the UK by QS Best Student Cities, Edinburgh offers a diverse and inclusive atmosphere with a vibrant student population of one-fifth of the city's residents.

Dynamic Lifestyle: With over 400 pubs and clubs, exciting nightlife, and countless cafes and bars, students can enjoy a rich social life. The city also offers various live music, theatres, galleries, and shops to explore.

Outstanding Natural Beauty: Edinburgh’s natural landscape is breathtaking, from the iconic Arthur’s Seat to its numerous public parks and green spaces. It’s perfect for students who enjoy outdoor activities and need a peaceful retreat from their studies.

Excellent Sporting Facilities: Home to Oriam, Scotland’s Sports Performance Centre, as well as top-tier venues for football, rugby, swimming, and more, Edinburgh is a haven for sports enthusiasts.

International Groceries: Edinburgh boasts various supermarkets and specialty stores, including European, Chinese, Indian, African, and many others. These ensure that international students can find familiar groceries and feel connected to home, making the transition to a new city much smoother.

Safe and Welcoming: Voted the safest city in the UK and the best place to live by the Quality of Life Index, Edinburgh offers a welcoming and friendly environment for international students, ensuring a comfortable and secure living experience.


These are some of the top reasons I chose Edinburgh, and I have enjoyed all of these aspects throughout my degree program. I hope this helps anyone unfamiliar with student life in Edinburgh.
Feel free to share anything else you find interesting or consider an important part of your student experience. If you have any doubts or questions about living here, I’m happy to help with what I know from my experience.
Cheers,
Shri (MSc International Business Student).

You have written a true accurate account about Edinburgh and the surrounding area.

As a edit born resident I couldn't have put what you said any better.

Yes Edinburgh is a wonderful city for any potential students who want to attend a university in a vibrant busy city especially during August when the Edinburgh international festival and tattoo is on and also all the other events the city host's throughout the year.

I actually attended neighbors Napier university for two degrees in which I graduated last summer as a adult nurse. I actually chosen to stay at home and attend my local city university rather than anywhere else.

Thanks for your lovely words about the city of Edinburgh.
Original post by littleemma98
You have written a true accurate account about Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
As a edit born resident I couldn't have put what you said any better.
Yes Edinburgh is a wonderful city for any potential students who want to attend a university in a vibrant busy city especially during August when the Edinburgh international festival and tattoo is on and also all the other events the city host's throughout the year.
I actually attended neighbors Napier university for two degrees in which I graduated last summer as a adult nurse. I actually chosen to stay at home and attend my local city university rather than anywhere else.
Thanks for your lovely words about the city of Edinburgh.

Hello,

That's so sweet; thank you so much. I want the upcoming students (Home/ International) to understand better what it feels like to live here in Edinburgh. Thanks to people like you for spending a minute reading and sharing your thoughts. This will be invaluable for the students.

Working at the Fringe Fest last summer was an amazing, eye-opening experience for me, especially as an international student. I had the opportunity to interact with people from all over the world and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each of them. It was truly the best kind of exposure, providing invaluable learning opportunities and unforgettable memories.

Everyone, please share your experiences living in Edinburgh, which will be valuable for new students!

Cheers,
Shri.
(edited 8 months ago)

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