12 Best Study Abroad Programs in Scotland This Year

Many students choose to study abroad in Scotland for its high-quality education, vibrant cities, and good quality of life…not to mention the fact that Scottish universities look like Hogwarts! If you also want to study in this beautiful country located north of England, you might be wondering which study abroad programs in Scotland are the best.

Choosing a study abroad program—especially in a popular destination like Scotland—can be tricky since there are many options. In this article, you will find a list of the best study abroad programs in Scotland, including programs in main cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Stirling. Get ready to start your study abroad adventure!

What makes these programs the best?

There are 19 universities in Scotland and hundreds of study fields. Many providers organize study abroad programs at these universities, making the competition fierce. While choosing the best study abroad programs in Scotland, we took the following into account:

• Provider reputation: A good provider ensures students’ safety and well-being while making sure that they get the most out of the program.
• Quality of programs: High-quality programs in reputable universities add to your CV, improve your job prospects, and develop your skills.
• Modules included: The best study abroad programs in Scotland all have interesting modules (aka classes) that cater to many different interests. Most of them also include courses on Scottish history so that students get familiar with the local culture and learn more about the country.
• Reviews and ratings: Previous students give the best feedback since they’ve already been to Scotland with these programs.

12 best study abroad programs in Scotland

Here are the programs that make studying at Scotland’s best universities possible:

1. IFSA: University of Edinburgh Partnership

• Why? The University of Edinburgh is constantly ranked as one of the top universities in Scotland and in the UK in general. Through IFSA, you can choose from a wide range of topics at this reputable university and study in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. With its medieval castles and historic cobblestone streets, Edinburgh will cast its spell on you and you will feel like you’re in a Harry Potter movie!
• Where? Edinburgh
• Read IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad) reviews

2. ISA Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland

• Why? Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, known for its vibrant city life and rich cultural scene. In this program, you will get to attend the University of Glasgow and discover the city during your free time. From free museums to diverse restaurants, this city has something for everyone.
• Where? Glasgow
• Read ISA (International Studies Abroad) reviews

3. Study, Experience, & Intern in Scotland

• Why? St. James Research Centre aims to develop solutions for social intervention. If you’re pursuing a degree related to anthropology, social work, psychology, or human rights, this program is a great fit. By combining theoretical classes and hands-on experience, you will get to improve your knowledge and make a difference in social justice. You will be living, studying, and working in Falkirk, which makes it easy to visit cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow in your free time.
• Where? Falkirk
• Read St. James Research Centre reviews

4. USAC Scotland: Stirling - Undergraduate Courses

• Why? Would you like to get a sneak peek into campus life at a Scottish university? With this program, you will live on the University of Stirling’s campus and have access to its facilities, including the 50-meter swimming pool, shops, and campus nightlife. The university is a 40-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride away from the city center of Stirling, a historic fortress city. During your experience, you can explore subjects like Scottish studies, English literature, political science, film, and more depending on availability.
• Where? Stirling
• Read USAC (University Studies Abroad Consortium) reviews

5. Golf and Equine Summer Study in Scotland - Adelante Abroad

• Why? Here is an off-the-beaten-path study abroad program in Scotland. If you opt for the golf program, you will learn about the history of golf, visit the British Golf Museum in St. Andrews, practice golf, and go on sightseeing day trips. With the equine program, you will study in a Scottish college specializing in animal care and agriculture, learn about English-style horse riding, and go on trips to Glasgow and Scone Palace. The latter program is suitable for both pre-veterinary students and equestrianism enthusiasts.
• Where? Edinburgh
• Read Adelante Abroad reviews

6. Semester in Edinburgh - Edinburgh Napier University

• Why? Another great university in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Napier University is located in the old center. In this program, you will join students from over 100 nationalities to experience campus life, study in historical buildings built between the 16th and the 21st centuries, and have the opportunity to join sports and clubs.
• Where? Edinburgh
• Read CIS Abroad reviews

7. CIEE Arts + Sciences (Strathclyde) in Glasgow, Scotland

• Why? Glasgow is one of the UK’s leading business hubs that is also well-known for its art scene. This program is designed to help you discover the city by studying British and Scottish cultures, architecture, business, journalism, and many more subjects. The city itself will complement your studies as you observe the buildings you will learn about in class.
• Where? Glasgow
• Read CIEE reviews

8. IFSA: Glasgow School of Art Partnership

• Why? Art lovers will be happy to hear that Glasgow has a dedicated art school. This program takes you to the Glasgow School of Art where many artists, designers, and architects have studied. You will learn about artistic techniques and have the chance to put your knowledge into practice through internships, research, and volunteer opportunities. Another highlight of the program is the school’s annual fashion show, which you will have the chance to take part in!
• Where? Glasgow
• Read IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad) reviews

9. Study in Scotland with World Endeavors

• Why? Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh welcomes international students with this study abroad program coordinated by World Endeavors. The modules you can choose go beyond traditional classes, as you will have the possibility to study Textiles and Design or Brewing and Distilling! In your free time, you will discover Edinburgh and see how it combines historic buildings with modern city life.
• Where? Edinburgh
• Read World Endeavors reviews

10. Experience Stirling, Scotland with API

• Why? Here is another opportunity to live in the charming city of Stirling, full of history and culture. This program helps you immerse yourself in Scottish culture and learn about interesting topics, such as the history of witchcraft in Scotland. Plus, the campus you will be staying on has its own loch and castle!
• Where? Stirling
• Read API (Academic Programs International) reviews

11. Introductory Course to Law for High School Students

• Why? This program is a great introduction for high school students considering studying law. Covering topics like law, government intervention, international trade, and market failure, this program aims to give you insight into your academic and career options related to law. Organized by ISSFT, the program takes place at the University of Stirling.
• Where? Stirling
• Learn more about ISSFT (International Summer School for Teens)

12. Non-Profit, Low Cost, Direct Study in Scotland

• Why? A budget-friendly option, Non-Profit Study Abroad provides low-cost study abroad programs in Scotland by offering direct enrollment to universities, resources about how to save money, and on- and off-campus accommodation options.
• Where? Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling
• Read NPSA (Non-Profit Study Abroad) reviews

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Studying abroad in Scotland might be the best decision you ever make!

The best study abroad programs in Scotland are your ticket to living out your picturesque Scottish dreams.

No matter what your interests are, you can find a relevant program to study abroad in Scotland. The country’s world-class education system, amazing culture, and beautiful cities will make your experience one hundred percent worth it.