Founded in 1821, Heriot-Watt University is one of the UK's oldest and most respected public research universities. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the university is internationally recognised for its strengths in engineering, business, data science, construction, and technology. It also has global campuses in Dubai and Malaysia, giving students the opportunity to study across multiple international locations. Heriot-Watt is home to more than 30,000 students across its global campuses and attracts learners from over 150 countries. The university is highly regarded for producing career-ready graduates through its strong links with industry and practical, applied learning. It is ranked among the Top 300 universities in the world and continues to strengthen its global reputation for research and innovation. The university is particularly recognised for excellence in Engineering, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Science, Business, Finance, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Petroleum Engineering, and Mathematics. Its internationally recognised Edinburgh Business School is one of the world's leading providers of business education. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, MBA, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of Heriot-Watt University admissions, available courses, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Heriot-Watt University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, MBA, and research programmes across a wide range of academic disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Robotics, Data Science, Construction, Mathematics, Architecture, and Sciences. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Engineering, Finance, Business Analytics, Renewable Energy, Construction Management, and more. |
| MBA | The globally recognised Edinburgh Business School MBA focuses on leadership, strategic management, finance, entrepreneurship, and global business. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by internationally recognised faculty and world-class research centres. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study. Applicants must meet programme-specific academic and English language requirements.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Programme-specific entry requirements |
| GPA / Academic Scores | Competitive programme-specific requirements |
| IELTS | Generally 6.5+ (programme dependent) |
| TOEFL iBT | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| PTE Academic | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, personal statement, references, CV (where applicable), and programme-specific documents |
Cost of Attendance
The Heriot-Watt University tuition fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, books, health expenses, and personal living costs while studying in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh has a higher cost of living than some UK cities, it offers excellent career opportunities, a high quality of life, and access to Scotland's thriving financial, engineering, and technology sectors.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Heriot-Watt University provides more than £6 million annually in scholarships and bursaries, supporting over 400 students each year. The university also offers more than £500,000 in International Merit Scholarships for eligible international students. Popular scholarship opportunities include:
- International Merit Scholarship
- Postgraduate Merit Award
- Undergraduate Merit Scholarships
- Global College Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- Country-specific Scholarships
- Edinburgh Business School Scholarships
- Research Council Funding
- Doctoral Studentships
- Research Assistantships
- Department-specific scholarships and bursaries
- Scholarship awards vary by programme and country, with many international students receiving partial tuition fee reductions based on academic merit
Campus Life & Student Experience
Heriot-Watt University offers a modern campus experience with excellent academic, sporting, and research facilities. Students benefit from:
- More than 150 student clubs and societies
- Modern libraries and research laboratories
- Oriam, Scotland's National Sports Performance Centre
- Career counselling and employability support
- Placement and internship opportunities
- Entrepreneurship and innovation programmes
- International exchange opportunities
- A beautiful green campus located just outside Edinburgh city centre
- Students can also benefit from studying across Heriot-Watt's campuses in Scotland, Dubai, and Malaysia, gaining valuable international exposure
Research & Global Reputation
Heriot-Watt University is internationally recognised for research excellence, innovation, and graduate employability. Highlights include:
- Ranked among the Top 300 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026
- Ranked among the Top 35 universities in the UK and Top 5 in Scotland
- Around 87% of research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework
- Strong research in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Engineering, Renewable Energy, Construction, Mathematics, Data Science, Business, and Sustainability
- Home to the globally recognised Edinburgh Business School
- Strong partnerships with employers including Shell, BP, IBM, Microsoft, Siemens, Deloitte, Rolls-Royce, Arup, and PwC
- Recognised for producing highly employable graduates with strong industry connections
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students admitted to Heriot-Watt University generally require a UK Student Visa after receiving their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Eligible graduates may remain and work in the UK through the Graduate Route Visa, allowing international students to gain valuable work experience after completing their degree, subject to current UK government immigration regulations.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | International students generally require a UK Student Visa after receiving a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). |
| Graduate Route | Eligible graduates may apply for the UK Graduate Route, allowing them to remain and work in the UK after completing their degree, subject to current UK Government regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through UCAS.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Receive and accept your admission offer.
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the Heriot-Watt University online application portal. Upload academic transcripts and supporting documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet programme-specific admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Accept your offer and begin your UK Student Visa process.
- Apply for your UK Student Visa — After accepting your offer, apply for your UK Student Visa.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Heriot-Watt University good for international students?
Yes. Heriot-Watt University is internationally recognised for its strengths in engineering, business, technology, and applied research. It offers excellent graduate employability, global campuses, and strong industry partnerships.
Does Heriot-Watt University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. The university offers International Merit Scholarships, Postgraduate Merit Awards, Global College Scholarships, Edinburgh Business School Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships, and doctoral funding for eligible international students.
What English language tests does Heriot-Watt University accept?
The university accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and other approved English language qualifications, depending on the programme.
How do I apply to Heriot-Watt University?
Undergraduate applicants apply through UCAS, while postgraduate applicants apply through Heriot-Watt University's online application portal.
Can international students work after graduating from Heriot-Watt University?
Yes. Eligible graduates can apply for the UK Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to remain and work in the UK after completing their studies.
Does Heriot-Watt University provide career support?
Yes. Heriot-Watt University offers career counselling, internships, placement opportunities, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, and dedicated employability services. Its close links with industry help students secure graduate roles across engineering, business, finance, and technology sectors.
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