Studying in Scotland, All you need to know (Updated 2022)

  • Population: 5.454 million
  • Currency: Pound (£)
  • University Students: 307,215
  • International Students: 50,000
  • English-taught Programs: 182

Scotland, a country with a mild climate, is home to a cosmopolitan population. Studying abroad in this part of the country is a great way to meet new people, go shopping, have a good time, and see what the country has to offer. Scottish universities have a variety of clubs and organisations for students to join, allowing them to get to know other students who share their interests. An advanced transportation system is available for international students in Scotland to use, making it easier for them to get throughout the country and around Europe. Scotland’s vibrant culture makes it a gastronomic paradise, with a variety of cuisines to choose from, including Thai, Indian, Vietnamese, and Spanish.

It’s no surprise that overseas students flock to Scotland, the UK’s northernmost state. Excellent educational institutions, lively student life, and an excellent standard of living are all found in this region. Studying in Scotland, on the other hand, can be expensive, so start saving early.

Newer universities in particular do not confine their students to four walls. In Scotland, there is a strong desire for more collaboration, which means that you will have better access to resources. In order to make this possible, educational institutions are increasingly relying on cutting-edge technology, such as video conferencing and online course materials.

OVERVIEW STUDY IN SCOTLAND

Students all over the world flock to Scotland, thanks to the country’s well-regarded educational system and world-class colleges. International students from all over the world flock to Scotland each year to complete their post-secondary education. The fact that many overseas students consider Scotland to be an excellent place to study further enhances its reputation as a top education destination.

Scotland, the UK’s northernmost country, is a popular tourist destination noted for its rolling landscapes, lively towns, snow-capped mountains, and quaint villages. Students from all over the world flock to its world-class universities every year, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and international students. Scots have access to 15 different postsecondary schools of higher learning, including world-famous universities like Edinburgh’s, Glasgow’s, and St Andrews’. In addition to excellent academics and active student life, these institutions also provide a high standard of living for their residents. However, the cost of attending one of these schools can be prohibitive, making thorough research and preparation essential.

Scotland is a great place to study abroad because of its beautiful landscapes and a number of outstanding universities. As a bonus, students will be able to immerse themselves in a fascinating and unique culture and tradition while attending one of the world’s most friendly universities.

Scottish universities and higher education institutions provide more than 4,500 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in more than 150 academic disciplines. Additionally, they offer a wide range of research-based programmes, both on campus as well as online, and you can earn a degree in a wide variety of subjects.

UNIVERSITIES IN SCOTLAND

Since the 15th century, Scottish universities have been providing international students with a world-class academic experience. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, and Aberdeen are among of Scotland’s best-known universities. There are five Scottish institutions in the top 200 universities in the world, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. As one of the main reasons why students flock to Scottish universities, their education system concentrates on world-class research, a wide variety of courses, and an emphasis on job readiness.

The World University Rankings include a number of Scottish universities as world-class institutions. The University Of Edinburgh and Scotland’s premier university, are example of this type of institution. As the sixth oldest English-speaking University, it has a significant impact on the city’s reputation as a centre of learning and culture. The University of Glasgow, Scotland’s second-largest institution by student enrolment, is the third-best university in Scotland. The University of Aberdeen, the last but not least, can trace its roots all the way back to 1495. In the World University Rankings, it is now rated 207th.

TUITION FEES IN SCOTLAND

All students in Scotland are required to pay fees to attend a university. What you pay depends on your fee status, as well as where you live. Students from Scotland and the European Union (referred to as “Home” students) pay the lowest tuition rates. The Student Awards Agency for Scotland typically covers the costs of undergraduate degrees in Scotland.

The term “Rest of UK” refers to students from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They must pay more than home students for undergraduate degrees, but postgraduate tuition fees is usually the same for both groups. Pupils who are not citizens of the United Kingdom or the European Union are considered “International” students. Students from other countries typically have to pay more for their education.

Your tuition fees status (i.e., whether you’re a “home,” “RUK,” or “foreign” student) and the level of study you intend to pursue heavily influence the price of your university education. Tuition fees in Scotland can vary widely. Because of the prestige of and difficulty in getting into an elite university, tuition fees at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow will be more expensive than at other Scottish universities.  It costs 10,000 – 26,000 Pounds to complete undergraduate courses and 15,000 – 30,000 Pounds to complete postgraduate courses in Scotland.

In Scotland, university tuition is free, but only for those who are citizens of the country. The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAS) will pay all of your tuition fees at any Scottish university if that is the case (SAAS). Tuition fees will be required for both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees if you are an international student (including EU students from 2021/22 onwards). It’s important to note that the cost of both courses will be different depending on the university you choose to attend.

SCHOLARSHIPS IN SCOTLAND

For overseas students who must pay higher tuition fees, a scholarship is an excellent method to pay for your studies in Scotland. The Saltire Scholarships, which are funded by the Scottish Government, are a popular option for students interested in studying in Scotland. If you’re interested in pursuing a Master’s degree in one of a number of emphasis areas, these programmes are normally open to students from North America, Asia, and Europe.

International students who must pay higher tuition fees can consider taking out an education loan to help them pay for their study abroad. Scholarships granted by colleges and the federal government are another wonderful option for students to consider. Studying in Scotland can be made possible by a wide range of scholarships and financial aid programmes.

These scholarships are awarded to students from Commonwealth countries such as India and Malaysia, as well as Bangladesh, Belgium, and more. It gives students the option to pay for their postgraduate education in a variety of ways. More than 160 nations and territories are eligible to apply for Scholarships, which allow students from these countries to pursue postgraduate studies at UK universities.

Students enrolling in science programmes in Scotland are eligible for grants from the Royal Society. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships are open to students from certain nations who aspire to pursue full-time master’s degrees at Scottish institutions.

COST OF LIVING IN SCOTLAND

The cost of attending university in Scotland is higher than in many other parts of the UK, but it is less expensive than in London. In reality, student housing in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen is among the most affordable in the United Kingdom. In addition, numerous stores, restaurants, and pubs offer discounted rates for students. You may live comfortably on 700 or 800 pounds each month, including housing, depending on your level of luxury preference. If you want to study in the UK on a Tier 4 student visa, you must show that you can afford to pay £1,015 GBP each month for up to nine months, regardless of the actual cost of living.

There is a perception that the cost of living in Scotland is expensive for foreign nationals. This is largely due to the fact that Scotland is a dynamic country with a thriving economy. However, the cost of living in Scotland is generally lower than in the rest of the United Kingdom.

Expats looking for a place to stay in Scotland will have no trouble finding a place to call home thanks to the abundance of furnished, unfurnished, and partially furnished flats and apartments available throughout the year. The majority of flats for rent are rented through real estate companies or private landlords. Broking agencies can be a great resource for first-time expats in Scotland looking to rent an apartment, since they can assist with the process of finding suitable housing.

In Scotland, the cost of basic utilities is less expensive than in certain other parts of the United Kingdom, although it can still be more expensive than in other parts of the United Kingdom. In addition, utility costs are higher than in other major cities around the world.

INTERNSHIPS & COMPANY PLACEMENTS IN SCOTLAND

Many people conflate internships and work placements. Internships are taken during summer or after the graduation to gain experience in a specific sector. Academic credit is given to students who complete a module during their placement year. With regards to length, internships might range from a few days to more than six months. Internships for undergraduates are often shorter in duration than those for graduates. In the medical field, you could be referred to as an “intern” until you reach the next level of training.

Summer internships, as their name implies, often last for two or three months. For students and recent graduates alike, summer internships are a great way to get a taste of the work world and learn new skills without having to make a long-term commitment.

In most cases, universities do not explicitly recognise internships as part of a degree programme, although professional training organisations may. The ACCA Qualification, which is required to become a qualified accountant through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, can be counted for internship experience.

WORKING IN SCOTLAND

If you had your way, you could attend university full-time and learn as much as possible. Students in Scotland have a high cost of living, but a student job can help you get essential work experience before you graduate. It is contingent upon your status as a student in the UK on a visa whether you are allowed to work and for how much. In most cases, there are no restrictions on employment for British or EU nationals. For overseas students in Scotland on a Tier 4 visa, working up to 20 hours a week is generally permitted, as long as you have a documented arrangement with your employer.

Employers who appreciate degrees earned at Scottish institutions recognise the significance of the education system in Scotland and seek out graduates with those credentials. Scotland’s colleges and universities are also partnering with employers to help students transition from college to the workforce.

APPLYING FOR A STUDENT VISA TO STUDY IN SCOTLAND

Foreign governments grant students official authorization to live and study in their countries with a student visa. All semester and year-long students must have a student visa. When a semester student arrives in the United Kingdom, he or she will apply for a Short-term Study Visa. A Tier 4 general student visa is required if you want to stay in the country for a full academic year or participate in an internship through your host university.

A Tier 4 visa application must be completed before a student leaves the country. About four months before to the commencement of the programme, USAC will send you a Visa Guide, which contains further information. Central Office staff members are also ready to assist with visa questions. You are responsible for all fees associated with getting a visa, including travel.

Check with your home country’s consulate and the embassy of the country where you wish to study for visa information. A stay outside of the country for more than a year may compromise one’s status as a permanent U.S. resident. In certain circumstances, tax clearance and re-entry forms may also be required. If you’re applying from a nation where English is not the primary language, you may be asked to provide proof of your English competence.

FAQ:

Is it worth studying in Scotland?

Students from other countries are enthusiastic about their experiences in Scotland. 94% of international students in Scotland and 86% of Scottish students said they would recommend the country to others, according to a survey by the Scottish government.

How much does it cost to study in Scotland?

It costs 10,000 – 26,000 Pounds to complete undergraduate courses and 15,000 – 30,000 Pounds to complete postgraduate courses in Scotland.

Is studying in Scotland free?

It’s true that you can study for free in Scotland, but only under one circumstance: The first undergraduate degree (either a Bachelor’s degree or a Scottish undergraduate Master’s degree) is free for citizens of the United Kingdom or other EU countries who are already resident in Scotland. As an alternative, the Student Awards Agency for Scotland will pay all of your expenses.

Students from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the “rest of the UK” or “RUK”), as well as those from countries outside the European Union (the “international students”), are not covered by this exception.

Tuition fees is almost always required of students wishing to pursue a postgraduate degree. In general, EU students pay less than non-EU international students, but this varies by university and programme. Scottish universities do not differentiate between RUK and Scottish students in postgraduate programmes.

Is it expensive to live in Scotland?

The cost of living in Scotland is lower than in many other parts of the United Kingdom. Compared to London, weekly household costs can be 20% lower and 10% lower than in the UK as a whole. So in this case you will be able to get more out of your money.

Is it better to study in England or Scotland?

In Scotland, a Bachelor’s degree takes four years to finish, same like in the United States, although in England, Wales, and the rest of Europe, a Bachelor’s degree may normally be completed in three years.

How long do you have to live in Scotland to get free university?

Free university study is available to students who live in Scotland and plan to stay in the country to complete their studies. They must have resided in Scotland for three years prior to applying to university in order to be eligible. In order to attend university in Scotland, students from the rest of the UK must pay tuition fees.

Does Scotland have free healthcare?

The National Health Service (NHS) provides free hospital, physician, and mental health treatment to all English residents. It is primarily funded by general taxes that make up the National Health Service’s overall budget.

Which university is cheapest in Scotland?

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is the cheapest university to study in Scotland.