Studying in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has some of Scotland's best schools, possesses world leading universities, and five star research institutions, such as Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh. 

The region caters for a full range of educational needs, spanning the state and independent sectors, from impressive nursery school.

Schools

Edinburgh city region has many state-run, private and voluntary nursery school and playgroup options to choose from. In fact, Edinburgh was the first Scottish local authority to introduce pre-school education for all children.

There are over 260 primary and secondary education establishments in Edinburgh and the surrounding area

• 130 Nursery schools (ages 3-5)
• 218 Primary schools (ages 5-12)
• 46 Secondary schools (ages 12-18)
• Several special schools (for children with additional support needs)

Scottish education is highly respected throughout the world and Edinburgh's reputation as a world influencer in education is justly deserved.

More on schools in Scotland

Learn more about Scotland's education system from the Learning and Teaching Scotland website

Universities and colleges

Edinburgh's universities are reputed internationally for their high quality graduates.

There are more than 50,000 full and part-time students enrolled at Edinburgh's four universities

• The University of Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Napier University
• Heriot-Watt University
• Queen Margaret University

Edinburgh's higher and further education colleges, with almost 40,000 students enrolled, include

• The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
• Edinburgh College of Art
• Scottish Agricultural College
• Edinburgh's Telford College
• Jewel and Esk College
• Stevenson College Edinburgh