When applying for an undergraduate programme at the University of Edinburgh you will need to meet several key categories of entry requirements. This post breaks them down clearly: English language requirements, Scottish qualifications, English/Welsh/Northern Irish qualifications, and international qualifications.

English language requirements

Regardless of where you are from, you must show you can handle the English-language academic environment at Edinburgh.

Key points:

1. A pass in English at school level (for example, GCSE/IGCSE at grade C/4) is required unless the degree states a higher level.
2. Acceptable language tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, Trinity ISE, PTE Academic. For example, IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.
3. The result must be valid: for recognised tests (IELTS/TOEFL etc.) usually no more than two years old by the start of the programme; for some school-level English qualifications up to three and a half years.
4. Some programmes (especially professional or competitive ones) may demand higher English language standards.

Tip: Check the specific degree’s webpage for any higher English requirement beyond the general one.

Scottish qualifications (SQA)

If you studied under the Scottish system, here is how Edinburgh treats your qualifications.

Highlights:

1. For most degrees, a typical requirement is achieving four or five Highers at specified grades by the end of S5 or S6.
2. Some degrees may also require Advanced Highers, especially in competitive or specialist programmes (e.g., medicine, veterinary medicine).
3. There are lists of approved subjects for Highers; for general entry these are required, and for specific degrees you may need particular subjects.
4. Other Scottish qualifications such as National 5, Higher National Certificate (HNC/HND) or Foundation Apprenticeships are also recognised but may have specific conditions.

Tip: If you have mixed years of Highers or took some in S4 and some in S6, check the “degree finder” tool at Edinburgh to ensure you meet the required pattern for your chosen subject.

English/Welsh/Northern Irish qualifications

If your secondary education was in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, the following applies.

Important details:

1. For A Levels: You will normally need three A Levels in one set of examinations, with specified grades (depending on the degree).
2. The University accepts most but not all A Level subjects; some degrees also specify required subjects or required grades at GCSE level (e.g., in Maths or Science).
3. For GCSE/IGCSE: unless higher level is specified, a pass in English at grade C/4 is required.

Tip: If your school customises your A Levels (for example taking one early or over different years), check the specific degree requirements — some flexibility exists but it depends on the subject.

International qualifications

For applicants with education systems outside the UK (or additional international qualifications) the University provides guidance.

Main points:

1. The University welcomes a wide range of international qualifications and provides equivalent grade guidance by region.
2. You should check, for your country or qualification type, whether your grades meet the “standard entry requirement” or the “minimum entry requirement” (for widening access) for your chosen degree.
3. Some degrees may require particular subjects studied or particular grades in those subjects at Higher Level (depending on the system). For example with an IB Diploma you may need specific HL subjects.

Tip: Use the University’s international entry requirements section by country to see how your national qualifications compare, and contact admissions if you have an unusual qualification.

Summary

When preparing your application to Edinburgh:

1. Ensure you meet the English language requirement common to all applicants.
2. Check how your national/secondary qualification (Scottish, English/Welsh/Northern Irish, or international) maps to the University’s criteria.
3. For your chosen degree, check whether there are required subjects or higher grade thresholds above the general requirement.
4. Aim to meet or exceed the standard requirement rather than relying on minimums (which apply only in specific widening access cases).

Meeting the requirements does not guarantee an offer, but it is a necessary foundation. Being clear and prepared will strengthen your application.

References

1. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/english-language
2. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/scottish-qualifications
3. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/english-welsh-northern-irish-qualifications
4. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/international-qualifications
5. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/understanding
6. https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/entry-requirements/understanding/minimum