find your perfect postgrad program
Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

Refine courses

Posted April 16, 2025

Edinburgh – Student City Guide

The stunning Scottish city of Edinburgh is an icon in its own right. From its distinct character, rich heritage and enchanting architecture to its thriving arts, culture and festival scenes, the cobblestone streets of this wonderful city promise so much magic. Those lucky enough to study here really are in for a treat as this rundown of the top reasons to choose Edinburgh as your PG study destination proves.

Read on to discover all you need to know about postgraduate life in Edinburgh and what to expect when you enrol for your PG course.

World-leading opportunities

While not the only university in this fair city, the University of Edinburgh is world class, especially for research and development. It’s been the home of some of the planet’s greatest thinkers, and is recognised globally for its excellence.

At its heart, the University of Edinburgh is a safe, bright and exciting place to study, with access to world-class facilities and education defining your very experience as a postgraduate student.

During and after your studies, there are more incredible prospects to relish with graduate employability particularly high. The future is indeed bright for University of Edinburgh postgraduates with ample opportunity for skilled employment and further study. Finding flexible, part-time or temporary work is also possible in this bustling city.

The city is also home to Edinburgh Napier University, Queen Margaret University and Heriot-Watt University. 

Heriot-Watt University is an institution renowned for its pioneering research and education. Its position at the forefront of the fields of science, technology, engineering, business and design makes it the first choice for many postgraduates. Its international links - Heriot-Watt University has campuses in Dubai and Malaysia as well as in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders and Orkney – open up a whole world of opportunity for postgrads everywhere too.

High cost of living

With Edinburgh recently named of the most expensive cities in the world to live, it should come as no surprise that the cost of living for students is pretty high.

According to the University of Edinburgh, an Edinburgh student could spend anything up to £2,257 per month. This covers the cost of accommodation, food, utilities, travel around the city, and health and wellbeing. Living a fulfilling student life doesn’t have to break the bank however, especially if you heed the following advice from Edinburgh University Students’ Association:

“There are many budgeting planners you can choose to plan your budget and track your spending. We can’t recommend a particular planner, but we list some suggestions below. Be honest about your spending and allow 10% wiggle room. Don’t forget to include one-off expenses like birthdays and allow yourself money to socialise or entertain. Try to pay with your phone or card if you can so you can track what you are spending and keep a record of what you spent your cash on.”

Many students choose to subsidise the high cost of living with part-time work and student funding. Cost of living help is also available from your university, with several free services and discounts there for the taking.

A thrilling student life

All year round the city of Edinburgh offers something to see, do and enjoy, which makes it such a rewarding experience for our postgraduates.

Explore Edinburgh’s fascinating history and heritage by taking in sights like Edinburgh Castle and the National Museum of Scotland. Marvel at the most magnificent views from the top of Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill.

From your base in Edinburgh, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, including the incredible Scottish Highlands and the picturesque Lothians. Making the most of your downtime really is easy as an Edinburgh postgrad, and that’s before we even mention the city’s jam-packed itinerary of events, activities and festivals, including Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Make studying in Edinburgh a reality by exploring our postgraduate courses right here at Postgrad.

Related articles

4 reasons to choose Edinburgh as your PG study destination

University of Edinburgh

 

Leave a comment

All contributors must be over 16 year olds

By submitting your comment you agree to our privacy policy.

Categories