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
• Key program dates
• 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

Academic Calendar

• Academic year: mid-September - mid-May
• Fall semester: mid-September - late December
• Spring semester: mid-January - mid-May

For specific dates, refer to the University of Edinburgh's Academic Calendar

Things to Consider Before Applying

• Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps.
• Still have questions?  Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisors.
• Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @cornelliansabroad

How do I apply?

Applying to study on an exchange program is a two-step process. The Cornell approval process must be completed first, before your Education Abroad advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit your nomination to the exchange partner.

1. For Cornell approval and nomination, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by your college and the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page, or earlier, if the program fills.
2. Once nominated by Cornell, Edinburgh will email you an invitation to apply with application instructions.  At that point, you must complete the external application required for exchange students by Edinburgh's deadline.  Nominated students are typically admitted by partners, but you must complete the application process for them to review your application and offer you a place.