Global Start - University of Edinburgh

Overview

This Fall 2025 opportunity is only open to first-year undergraduate international students.

Learn more about Global Start, including general eligibility requirements and answers to frequently asked questions.

The University of Edinburgh is located in the very heart of Scotland’s capital; a capital which is consistently considered one of the most desirable places to live in the world, and is also ranked the greenest in the UK.

What is unique about this program?

The University of Edinburgh has been at the forefront of knowledge since it was founded in 1583. Today, the University is proud to be one of the world’s top 20 universities, welcoming over 2,000 visiting students every year. Edinburgh offers a wide range of courses for Study Abroad students (see "Academics" tab for more details), and robust student and campus life.

The University of Edinburgh is a Cornell Global Hub partner university. Global Hubs are Cornell's collaborative centers of engagement around the world. Hubs will give students exciting opportunities for semester-long and short-term study abroad, field experience, participation in faculty-led research, curricular pathways through majors, internships, and more.

Students are encouraged to get involved with as many clubs and societies as possible while in Edinburgh, and there are over 240 to choose from: from Harry Potter to astrobiology, from chocolate to the Tango, there is a society out there for everyone. Edinburgh offers a range of university housing options for Study Abroad students.

What is unique about Edinburgh?

The city of Edinburgh, one of the greenest and most architecturally beautiful cities of Europe, stands high on the list of the visually exciting cities of the world. With a population of 500,000, it is a thriving commercial and financial center, the site of the new Scottish Parliament and a gateway to the coastline, hills and open country of the Scottish Highlands. Edinburgh annually attracts over 2,000,000 visitors, not just for its architecture, but as a city rich in social, cultural, learning and sporting facilities. Each year the city plays host to internationally renowned events such as the Edinburgh International Arts, Fringe, Film, TV and Science Festivals.

How do I get more information about Edinburgh

Browse through course options and information
Attend a virtual information session hosted by Edinburgh's Study Abroad team
Student testimonials, blogs, videos and more on their Student Perspectives page
Edinburgh's Study Abroad team can be contacted any time, and they are happy to answer your questions