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The University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

  • Russell Group
  • #35 QS World
  • #5 UK
#35QS World Ranking
#5UK Ranking
Not Rated by TEFTEF Rating
77%Satisfaction
83%Employment
£31,500Avg. Salary

About The University of Edinburgh

A centre of Enlightenment thinking since 1583, Edinburgh is the sixth-oldest university in the English-speaking world. The University of Edinburgh is a Russell Group research university based in Edinburgh. Edinburgh combines ancient tradition with innovation — it's home to world-leading AI research, one of the largest medical schools in Europe, and the birthplace of Dolly the sheep cloning.

In the latest rankings, University of Edinburgh is positioned #34 in the QS World Rankings 2026; #29 in the THE World Rankings 2026; #17 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

The university has approximately 39,015 students, with a diverse international community representing 122 nationalities — 42% of the student body. The largest international cohorts come from China, United States, and India.

University of Edinburgh currently lists 497 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 96 undergraduate and 401 postgraduate programmes. There are 7 scholarships available for international students.

Graduate outcomes are excellent: 91% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £31,500, rising to £37,600 after five years.

Student satisfaction is strong, with an NSS teaching satisfaction score of 85% and a continuation rate of 92%.

Set in one of Europe's most beautiful capital cities, with a vibrant arts scene and strong sense of community.

Founded1583
Total Students39,015+
Campus TypeSuburban

What is The University of Edinburgh's Ranking in 2026?

The University of Edinburgh is ranked #35 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #5 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.

Ranking SystemPosition
QS World University Rankings 2026#35
Times Higher Education 2026#29
Guardian University Guide (UK)#17
The Complete University Guide (UK)#5

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

What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?

83% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

83%Employed
7.6%Further Study
9.7%Studying & Working
4.5%Unemployed

Salary Progression

Time After GraduationMedian SalaryUK AverageDifference
15 months£31,500£28,980+9%
3 years£33,200£30,544+9%
5 years£37,600£34,592+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 77% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

77%Overall
Teaching Quality85.3%
Learning Resources86.4%
Academic Support84.2%
Assessment64.9%
Organisation71.6%
Student Voice69.2%

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?

41.6% of students are international, representing 122+ countries. Total international students: 16,235.

16,235International Students
41.6%of Student Body
122+Countries
CountriesStudentsPercentage
China7,22544.5%
United States1,5159.3%
India8805.4%
Malaysia4452.7%
Canada3952.4%
Hong Kong3602.2%
Indonesia2851.8%
Singapore2651.6%
Spain2601.6%
Germany2401.5%

Source: HESA official data.

Courses at The University of Edinburgh

View All 936+ Courses →

Scholarships for International Students

We found 112 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.

Showing 5 of 112 scholarships

View all 112 scholarships at The University of Edinburgh →

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

TypeUniversity
Founded1583
Total Students39,015+
International Students41.6%

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