Heriot-Watt University
Edinburgh, Scotland
- #287 QS World
- #41 UK
#287QS 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 #287 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #41 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.
| Ranking System | Position |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #287 |
| 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 Graduation | Median Salary | UK Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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%
80%Overall
Teaching Quality
82%Learning Resources
87.2%Academic Support
85%Assessment
74.9%Organisation
74.5%Student Voice
74.7%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
| Countries | Students | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| India | 915 | 29.8% |
| China | 525 | 17.1% |
| France | 210 | 6.8% |
| Nigeria | 185 | 6% |
| Malaysia | 160 | 5.2% |
| United Arab Emirates | 160 | 5.2% |
| Pakistan | 110 | 3.6% |
| Norway | 80 | 2.6% |
| Germany | 60 | 2% |
| Spain | 50 | 1.6% |
Source: HESA official data.
Courses at Heriot-Watt University
Accountancy
Undergraduate4 years
Accountancy and Finance
Undergraduate4 years
Accounting and Finance with Accelerator Programme
Undergraduate4 years
Accounting and Finance with Foundation
Undergraduate4 years
Scholarships for International Students
We found 42 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.
International Merit ScholarshipMerit
Merit-based support for international students
For students from: IN,LK,NG,NP,PK
£500,000tuition reduction
MBA 20th Anniversary ScholarshipMerit
AED 32,000 scholarship for MBA students at Dubai campus
Open to all international students
Deadline: 30 June 2026£64,000tuition reduction
IMechE Scholarships (for Mechanical Engineers)Merit
Awards up to £21,800 for IMechE accredited degree students
Open to all international students
£21,800tuition reduction
Future Planner ScholarshipMerit
Tuition fee discount for postgraduate students
For students from: 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Deadline: 14 June 2026Full Feesfee discount
The Dunsmore Scholarship for MScR Sport, Exercise and Health SciencesMerit
100% tuition fee discount for MScR Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences
For students from: 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Deadline: 31 May 2026Full Feesfee discount
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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