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Heriot-Watt University

Edinburgh, Scotland

  • #325 QS World
  • #41 UK
#325QS World Ranking
#41UK Ranking
Not Rated by TEFTEF Rating
80%Satisfaction
81.8%Employment
£31,500Avg. Salary

About Heriot-Watt University

With campuses in Edinburgh, Dubai, and Malaysia, Heriot-Watt is one of the UK's most internationally networked universities. Heriot-Watt University is a university based in Edinburgh. Founded as a mechanics' institute in 1821, Heriot-Watt has deep industry connections. Its actuarial science and petroleum engineering programmes are among the best in the world.

In the latest rankings, Heriot-Watt University is positioned #287 in the QS World Rankings 2026; in the 401-500 band in the THE World Rankings 2026; #41 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

The university has approximately 9,845 students, with a diverse international community representing 72 nationalities — 31% of the student body. The largest international cohorts come from India, China, and France.

Heriot-Watt University currently lists 104 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 39 undergraduate and 65 postgraduate programmes. There are 7 scholarships available for international students.

Graduate outcomes are strong: 89% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £31,500, rising to £35,400 after five years.

Student satisfaction is good, with 82% teaching satisfaction in the National Student Survey.

Green Edinburgh campus, internationally connected, practically oriented.

Founded1821
Total Students9,845+
Campus TypeSuburban

What is Heriot-Watt University's Ranking in 2026?

Heriot-Watt University is ranked #325 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #41 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.

Ranking SystemPosition
QS World University Rankings 2026#325
Times Higher Education 2026#401
Guardian University Guide (UK)#41
The Complete University Guide (UK)#41

Source: QS, THE, CUG, Guardian — Updated January 2026

What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?

81.8% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

81.8%Employed
5.9%Further Study
10.2%Studying & Working
8%Unemployed

Salary Progression

Time After GraduationMedian SalaryUK AverageDifference
15 months£31,500£28,980+9%
3 years£30,300£27,876+9%
5 years£35,400£32,568+9%

Source: HESA Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2025

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all subject areas and study modes. Actual graduate outcomes vary by course and cohort. For course-specific data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Satisfied Are Students?

Has an 80% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

80%Overall
Teaching Quality82%
Learning Resources87.2%
Academic Support85%
Assessment74.9%
Organisation74.5%
Student Voice74.7%

Source: National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all courses and may not reflect satisfaction for a specific course. For course-level data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Many International Students Study Here?

31.2% of students are international, representing 72+ countries. Total international students: 3,075.

3,075International Students
31.2%of Student Body
72+Countries
CountriesStudentsPercentage
India91529.8%
China52517.1%
France2106.8%
Nigeria1856%
Malaysia1605.2%
United Arab Emirates1605.2%
Pakistan1103.6%
Norway802.6%
Germany602%
Spain501.6%

Source: HESA official data.

Courses at Heriot-Watt University

View All 214+ Courses →

Scholarships for International Students

We found 42 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.

Showing 5 of 42 scholarships

View all 42 scholarships at Heriot-Watt University →

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

TypeUniversity
Founded1821
Total Students9,845+
International Students31.2%

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