Are you interested in studying abroad in Scotland but unsure of where to commit to? And, before you start picturing some classic staple Scottish elements (bagpipes, kilts, haggis, etc.) there’s a lot more to this wee but mighty country, including academics!
Not only does Scotland offer incredible landscapes, vastly different cultural experiences, and wickedly funny and warm natives, but it also has an excellent academic reputation. Where to study abroad in Scotland, though? It depends on what you’re looking for!
You can take your pick from magical metropolises, sweet seaside towns, or a classic country experience and visit the rest by train. Outside of the classroom you can experience wildlife migrations in the Highlands or have a night out with incredible festivities like the Fringe Comedy Festival and Burns Night (an evening to honor one of Scotland’s most famous poets, Robert Burns). Are you dreaming about the best places to study abroad in Scotland yet?
Why study abroad in Scotland?
There are plenty of great cities to study abroad in in Scotland!
So before we get into the full academics of it all, and the best study abroad cities in Scotland, there’s plenty to learn beyond the classroom. Scotland’s historical, political, social, and cultural roots will challenge you to grow intellectually and personally. The country is a wonderful place to study abroad and experience the world through a new lens.
Now that you know there’s more to do than hang out with sheep in the fields all day or watch birds—unless that’s what interests you!—let’s talk about where to study abroad in Scotland, and what is offered.
The Scottish cities that offer academic programs are relatively close together but all have distinct personalities and offerings.
Academics in Scotland are open and accessible to anyone interested, especially those looking for budget-friendly options! And as an added bonus, Scottish universities are generally cheaper than any other in the UK.
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5 best places to study abroad in Scotland
This history-packed country filled with music, nature, and culture is a great choice for your study abroad experience! If you’re ready to learn more, here are the five best places to study abroad in Scotland.
1. Edinburgh
Scotland has endless parks and natural feats throughout the country.
As the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is a city that is buzzing with culture and nightlife. Between its diverse neighborhoods, there are museums, festivals, and fun pop-up spaces nestled into the city’s addictingly walkable and charming old-world facade, making it an apt pick.
An important note to all students, Edinburgh is a bit cheaper and less populated than its nearby counterpart, Glasgow! Transportation is great (this goes for most of Scotland) and easy with Waverly Station in the center of town.
Edinburgh has an excellent reputation as far as academics go—both study-wise and socially. Many of the facilities and universities pride themselves on innovation, sustainability, and an openness for anyone to study there. Student experience reviews are ranked high throughout the city. Some great schools include the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, and Edinburgh Napier University.
Recommended programs:
- Study in Scotland with World Endeavors
- CIEE Arts + Sciences (Napier) in Edinburgh, Scotland
- Explore all study abroad programs in Edinburgh
2. Glasgow
Glasgow AKA the “friendly city” (nicknamed for its lovely locals) is the largest city in Scotland, and known for its art scene—it was recently named a UNESCO City of Music! Along with its music scene, the city offers incredible food and arts communities that have something for everyone.
All of these components make Glasgow a social behemoth with an excellent active cultural hub and fun nightlife. Don’t fret if that makes you sweat, there’s nature too; winding through the city is River Clyde, a nice respite for students needing a break from city life.
Glasgow schools and universities match Edinburgh regarding academics. The schools are also just as academically and socially robust as the ones found in the country’s capital. Top schools include the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of Strathclyde.
Recommended programs:
- ISA Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland
- IFSA: University of Glasgow Partnership
- Explore all study abroad programs in Glasgow
3. Stirling
Sightseeing is made easy by Scotland’s public transportation system.
For those looking for a different pace, Stirling is also known as the Gateway to the Highlands. The city is naturally placed where the lowlands and highlands meet, making it an excellent option for poets or naturalists!
And for the other creatives out there, you may already know, but Stirling lays claim to some great Hollywood media (Outlander, Monty Python, etc.), and has a killer local arts scene.
Stirling has the best of both worlds when it comes to academics. This city offers an old-world feeling with a great youthful and energetic population, perfect for learning. Along with a nice setting, there are awesome sports facilities (specifically at the University of Stirling). Scotland really does pride itself on accessible and inclusive academics.
Recommended programs:
- USAC Scotland: Stirling - Undergraduate Courses
- CIS Abroad Summer in Scotland (Stirling)
- Explore all study abroad programs in Stirling
4. St. Andrews
If you’re a history buff or know anything about St. Andrews beyond its popularity, you probably know this tidbit: It’s the first university in Scotland and the third oldest college in the English-speaking world!
Beyond its history, it’s presently adored in the student life ratings department, and incredibly prestigious. Famous alum are impressive and include Prince William and Jacques Cousteau’s grandson, Philippe Cousteau, Jr. Settled along the coast and beloved for its many golf courses and other leisure activities, St. Andrews offers an incredible slice of life.
St. Andrews provides a handful of universities but the city’s namesake, St. Andrews University, has programs that stand out amongst the rest of the stellar academics of the country. On par with some of the most prestigious options around the world, the University of St. Andrews has an incredible curriculum. All local schools are well-structured and welcome international students.
Recommended programs:
- IFSA: University of St. Andrews Partnership
- Summer Tennis Camp - Master Your Spin
- Explore all study abroad programs in St. Andrews
5. Dundee
Explore all that Scotland has to offer both in and out of the classroom.
Don’t count smaller cities like Dundee out! Not too far from Edinburgh (or any of the other cities) by train, it’s settled along the coast and is becoming increasingly more popular. It offers a great dining, arts and culture, and music scene.
Beyond that, it has a great history of inventors and became the first city in the UK to become a UNESCO City of Design. Providing architectural distinction and attention to design in all regards, Dundee isn’t to be missed. You can see these characteristics throughout the city, starting with their unique, yet somewhat controversial, focus on brutalist architecture for their homes.
Getting to know the academic side of the city, the small but exciting town offers multiple schools with different focuses. The commonality is the same for all the schools mentioned already. Student life and academics come first more often than not, making it an excellent choice for any international student.
Recommended program:
- DJCAD Summer School in Scotland: Learn About Design Thinking
- Explore all study abroad programs in Dundee
Explore ALL Study Abroad Programs in Scotland on GoAbroad.com
No matter where ye end up in Scotland, you’ll love your study abroad experience!
You’ll find that wherever you are in Scotland, it won’t disappoint—even the study abroad cities in Scotland that didn’t make the list (like Aberdeen) offer great options.
When you go, don’t forget that learning in and out of the classroom is just as important. It’s part of what makes studying abroad in Scotland magical. The most important thing is to not forget a raincoat…and grab a classic local sweet, like a millionaire shortbread, when you land!
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