Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University is the eighth oldest higher education institution in the UK and originated as the School of Arts of Edinburgh, the world’s first mechanics institute, in 1821. In 1966 it became a university by Royal Charter. More than a third of Heriot-Watt’s 7,000 Edinburgh campus students are from outside the UK and this international focus is also demonstrated by the 10,000 students from 150 different countries worldwide studying on its international programmes.

The University boasts multiple campuses, with three in Scotland, and one each in Malaysia and Dubai. Heriot-Watt won an award from the Scottish Council of Development and Industry because of its international focus and it also performs well in physical sciences, mathematics, business and management, engineering and the built environment. It won the 'International University of the Year' 2018 award from Times Higher Education.

95% of Heriot-Watt first degree graduates were in employment or further study within six months of graduating and it is the number 1 university in Scotland for the highest paid salaries (Times Higher Education).

Guidance and support for international students is provided by the Heriot-Watt University International Students Advice Office. They can help with practical advice such as setting up a UK bank account, driving in the UK, registering with the police for visa renewal, local travel arrangements, the details of embassies and consulates in Edinburgh and much more. The International Student Guide also provides useful information before departure.

The International Students Advice Office at Heriot-Watt also provides airport pickups at the start of each semester, followed by a series of welcome and orientation events.

• 51st in the Times University Guide 2025
• 66th in the Guardian University Guide 2025
• 256th in the QS World University Rankings 2025

97% of Heriot-Watt University's physics research is classed as world-leading and internationally excellent, whilst 96% of its Engineering research, in a joint submission with the University of Edinburgh, is classed as world-leading and internationally excellent following the REF2021.

Heriot-Watt accommodation service allocates places on campus, as well as helping students to find off-campus accommodation if necessary. The Edinburgh Campus has over 1,600 rooms, with en suite and shared rooms available. There are 200 self-catered rooms and flats on the Scottish Borders Campus, and the University also leases flats off-campus and in the town centre. There is no accommodation on the Orkney Campus, but the accommodation service can assist with finding flats and houses in the town of Stromness.