Consistently ranking amongst the top universities worldwide, the University of Edinburgh– often referred to as just 'Edinburgh' (and pronounced Edin-bruh)– is one of the most prestigious and historically significant universities in the UK. Not only is it a Russell Group University, but it's also the home of Harry Potter and haggis. Its reputation for academic excellence, combined with its beautiful location in a UNESCO world heritage city makes it a truly unique and vibrant place to study.
Edinburgh was founded in 1582, making it the second oldest university in Scotland – after St Andrews – and the sixth oldest university in the UK. The university boasts impressive alumni from a range of disciplines such as Charles Darwin, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and former UK prime minister Gordon Brown. Historically, it played a significant role in the Scottish Enlightenment period, producing influential figures like Adam Smith and David Hume, who not only transformed their academic fields but also reinvigorated Scotland’s reputation as a place for innovation and excellence.
American students will find certain elements of the university familiar. Edinburgh requires 4 years of study, as opposed to the usual 3 in the majority of the UK. While 4 years may seem like a long time, it feels like it has flown by. Everyone can apply to study abroad in their 3rd year, even if you do not take a language, to destinations all over the globe from Bangkok to Melbourne. I might be biased, but I've found that 4 years is the perfect amount of time because it both gives you more time to really enjoy your time at university and the flexibility to take the time to think about the future and your goals. During my time at Edinburgh, I have had the time and opportunity to find passions outside of academia in terms of extracurriculars and experimenting with different part-time jobs.
In your first 2 'pre-honours' years at the University of Edinburgh, you are also given the freedom to take extra courses alongside classes in your degree classification, something which most UK universities (including Oxbridge!) do not allow. For example, I study Russian and Philosophy but took classes in early modern Chinese poetry and Astrobiology during my first year. The University of Edinburgh encourages a cross-discipline approach to allow you to explore and broaden your academic interests while maintaining focus on your chosen degree.
You also can't really discuss the university without also mentioning the city of Edinburgh, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. The university is primarily located in the ‘Old Town’, which features charming narrow, winding streets, cobbled paths and a variety of quirky independent cafes to study or chat in.
You can visit Portobello Beach for bonfires on New Years– or "Hogmanay" in Scotland– or climb up Edinburgh’s famous ‘Arthur’s Seat’ for stunning panoramic views of the city. For hikers and climbers, you can travel around Scotland for free via bus after you receive your ‘Young Scot Card’, which you can apply for once you start studies. Not to mention, Edinburgh hosts the infamous ‘Edinburgh Fringe’, which is a month-long celebration of art that takes over the whole city. Most students work at the Fringe in August, as it’s a great way to make money while going to see some theatre, comedy and music concerts!
For students who want both academic rigor and a seemingly endless array of extracurricular activities to get involved with, Edinburgh is a brilliant choice. From the moment I visited it in my Junior year of high school (Year 12 in the UK), Edinburgh was my first choice. I have loved every minute in this characterful and charming city: it's a truly unique place to study.
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