About Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city straight out of a storybook. With its historic castles, cobbled streets, and lively arts scene,
the city is nothing short of a dream. Whether you're taking in the views on Arthur's Seat or wandering the colourful
streets of the Grassmarket, there is so much to see and do with your new friends in Edinburgh. The city also has
some of the leading universities in the UK, like the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, and Edinburgh
Napier University.
Whether you're sipping coffee in a cosy café in Newington or browsing local boutiques in Stockbridge, Edinburgh has a
relaxed vibe for students. If you're searching for Edinburgh student accommodation and want to keep expenses low,
there are plenty of great neighbourhoods with affordable student rooms near major campuses. And on the off chance
that you want to get away, Glasgow, Dundee, and Stirling are all a train ride away.
Best Student Accommodation in Edinburgh
At Alphaway, you’ll find the best affordable student housing in Edinburgh. Whatever you're looking for, luxury
student accommodation in Edinburgh, a stylish private student studio, a private ensuite student room, or a
budget-friendly shared room, your new student room is just a click away. Every listing is verified for safety and
quality. With 24x7 support and thousands of students booking through us, you're in good hands. Check out some of our
most popular student rooms in Edinburgh:
Why Choose Edinburgh for Higher Education
When it comes to education, Edinburgh is an incredible city to study in, offering world-renowned universities like
the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, and Edinburgh Napier University, a diverse mix of cultures, and
a student community that makes everyone feel welcome. From internships to festivals sampled across the city,
students can enjoy an exciting blend of study and social life. Edinburgh is a unique city that fuses history,
creativity, and innovation, making it one of the best student cities in the UK.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Edinburgh
Here are some popular areas for Edinburgh accommodation for international students and local students:
- Marchmont: a quiet, leafy neighbourhood near the University of Edinburgh and the Meadows, which
is great for walking, cafes, and shops for basically everything you need as a student.
- Newington: lively, with everything on your doorstep, like campuses and attractions in the city,
so overall an accessible student living experience if you want to be close to things.
- Leith: an up-and-coming area by the water with great food places, bars, and unique cultural
venues, all well connected to the city centre via public transport.
- Haymarket: a bustling transportation hub, filled with shops, gyms, and student accommodations.
Getting to Heriot-Watt University is super easy from here!
- Bruntsfield: well known for its cafes and parks, it has a relaxed and calm vibe and is popular
among postgraduate students as a place to live.
- Old Town: full of character and quirky charm, living in Old Town means you are never far away
from all that it has to offer, both in terms of events and history.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Edinburgh
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): purpose-built student housing in Edinburgh is specially
designed for students. You can decide on shared rooms, a bedroom that is shared with one other student and
shared kitchen and bathroom; ensuite rooms, a private bedroom and private bathroom, but shared kitchen; and
studios, fully private accommodation with your own kitchen and bathroom. All these rooms are fully furnished,
and rent is all-inclusive, including WiFi, bills, and access to amenities like common study spaces, gym, laundry
facility, and shared social spaces. Safe, convenient, and made for student living.
- University Halls: University Halls are on-campus or university-managed accommodation. Often,
the university has a range of acceptable amenities and details based on the university.
- Shared Apartments: These shared student apartments in Edinburgh are rented privately with
friends or housemates. Shared accommodation offers flexibility; however, students must manage the bills and
agreements as a group.
Cost of Living in Edinburgh for International Students
Cost of living in Edinburgh for students can vary, but here’s a general guide to help you with the average cost of
living in Edinburgh:
- Rent: £160-£300 weekly, depending on room type and location. PBSAs usually have bills included.
- Groceries: £100-£150 monthly. Stores like Lidl, Aldi, Tesco, and Sainsbury's are popular.
- Travel: £60-£80 monthly. Students can get a Rid-a-card for unlimited bus and tram travel.
- Eating Out: £10-£20 per meal. You will find lots of cheap meals; you will be fine.
- Entertainment and Shopping: £50-100 monthly - possible for cinema, festivals, shopping, and
events.
Transportation in Edinburgh
It is super easy to get around Edinburgh, thanks to its convenient and affordable public transport options. Here is
everything you need to know about transportation in Edinburgh:
- Buses & Trams: The Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams operate throughout the city, and student
travel passes are available.
- Train Services: Connects you to Glasgow, Stirling, and other cities for weekend trips.
- Airports: Edinburgh Airport is near and accessible via tram or bus.
- Student Travel Passes: A Student Rid-a-card allows unlimited travel for discounted prices on
buses and trams.
Student Life in Edinburgh
Edinburgh balances studies and fun perfectly. It’s a welcoming city for students from all backgrounds. Here is how to
make the most of your student life in Edinburgh:
- Restaurants & Cafés: Try out haggis or vegan food in Newington, Stockbridge, or Leith.
- Student Clubs & Events: Join some societies or check out what's happening in the city's buzzing
festival calendar.
- Markets & Malls: Check out Grassmarket, Princes Street, or Waverley Mall.
- Weekend Getaways: Take a trip to Glasgow, the Highlands, or one of the coastal towns such as
North Berwick.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Get some uninterrupted time in a university library or cafe.
- Live Music & Art: There's always something happening, from a small gig to the Edinburgh
Festival Fringe, you'll never be bored.
Universities in Edinburgh
- University of Edinburgh: A top-ranked university known globally for research and academic
excellence. Located in the city centre.
- Heriot-Watt University: It is famous for science, engineering, and business. The main campus is
in Riccarton.
- Edinburgh Napier University: The university offers career-focused courses across multiple
campuses in the city.
- Queen Margaret University: Specialises in health sciences, drama, and media. Located just
outside Edinburgh, in Musselburgh.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Nearly all Edinburgh Universities offer scholarships to students, and
these are most often offered based on academic merit or funding.
- Government Grants & Loans: Students from the UK can apply for Maintenance Loans and Tuition Fee
Loans.
- GCC Scholarships: Students from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf countries can visit the
embassy & ministry portals to determine support options.
- External Scholarships: Review options for Chevening, Commonwealth, and other international
funding.
Tips for International Students
- Open a UK Bank Account: Open a UK bank account ASAP after landing. Makes paying rent and
managing money easier.
- Get a Local SIM Card: Get a local SIM card for communication. GiffGaff, EE, and Vodafone are
good student-friendly options.
- Learn Local Habits: A smile and "HELLO" go a long way in Edinburgh!
- Use Discount Apps: Use student discounts as much as you can to lower the cost of living in
Edinburgh. Sign up for UNiDAYS or Student Beans.
- Alphaway Extras: We offer airport pickups, starter kits, and more to help you settle in.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with the NHS: You can access free healthcare by registering with a local GP. It will
help you to use the medical facilities while living in Edinburgh.
- Save Emergency Contacts: Dial 999 (for police) and keep the university security numbers saved
in your mobile phones for any emergencies.
- Stay Safe at Night: Use lit streets and reliable transport-night buses are available in the
student residences in Edinburgh.
- Mental Health Support: Most universities offer free counselling and support groups. Use these
services when needed.
