Introduction
Heriot-Watt University is a leading public research university based in Edinburgh, Scotland, with additional campuses in Dubai and Malaysia. Established in 1821 as the world’s first mechanics’ institute, it gained university status in 1966. Today, Heriot-Watt is internationally recognized for its STEM, business, and design expertise, as well as its strong industry partnerships.
The university is particularly renowned for Engineering, Built Environment, Business, Mathematics, Petroleum Engineering, and Computer Science. With a global footprint and highly employable graduates, Heriot-Watt provides students with internationally transferable skills and career-focused education.
To learn more about Heriot-Watt University, book a free consultation with LCI Group today!
Heriot-Watt University Key Statistics
- International Students Population: Around 10,200 students
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
Heriot-Watt University Accreditation and Affiliations
- Accredited by the UK Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)
- Business School holds AACSB accreditation
- Engineering programs accredited by professional bodies such as IMechE, IChemE, and Energy Institute
- Member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
Heriot-Watt University Academic Information
Programs Offered
- Foundation, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Flexible pathways and global mobility options between campuses
Popular Study Areas
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, Petroleum, Renewable Energy)
- Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
- Actuarial Science, Mathematics, and Statistics
- Business, Management, and Finance
- Architecture and the Built Environment
- Textiles & Fashion (Scottish Borders campus)
Heriot-Watt University Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate: £19,000 per year on average
- Postgraduate: £23,500 per year on average
Heriot-Watt University Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- High school completion with strong grades (A-levels/IB/equivalent)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0–6.5 / TOEFL iBT 80–90 / PTE 56+
Postgraduate
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant subject with 55–60%+ (India)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 90+ / PTE 58+
Heriot-Watt University Rankings and Recognition
- QS World University Rankings 2026: 287
- THE World University Rankings 2025: 401–500
Heriot-Watt University Campus Facilities
| Campus | Location & Setting | Key Features & Facilities | Academic / Disciplinary Strengths | Student Experience |
| Edinburgh (Riccarton) | Suburban, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, large green parkland area (~380 acres). | Major labs, research centres; student residences; sports centers; library collections; the Heriot-Watt University Research Park; modern lecture theatres; good transport links to Edinburgh city. | Strong in engineering, energy, architecture, business, computing, mathematics, physical sciences. This is the main campus for many flagship programmes. | Offers balance of city life and quieter study environment. Good mix of amenities. Higher cost of living (housing, transport) typical of major UK city areas. |
| Scottish Borders (Galashiels) | Rural / semi-rural setting in Galashiels town, within the Scottish Borders region. | Dedicated design & textile studios; newly developed facilities; accommodation tailored to the campus; communities are tighter, less hustle. | Textile & design disciplines particularly strong here; fashion, heritage crafts, manufacturing textiles. Also creative industries. | More intimate campus community; lower living costs; more peaceful; suitable for students who prefer quieter, focused settings; fewer distractions. |
| Orkney | Remote, island setting (Stromness, Orkney Isles). | Marine science facilities; labs oriented to environment / sustainability; strong community feel; often with close ties to the local environment. | Marine biology, environment, renewable energy, island studies. The International Centre for Island Technology (ICIT) is based here. | Very scenic; strong sense of belonging; possibly more isolated; field work opportunities; immersive natural environment. |
| Dubai Campus | Urban, in Dubai (Knowledge Park / Academic City area). | Modern infrastructures; labs for engineering, business & computing; shared spaces; international student body; likely similar curriculum as UK; strong links with industries in region. | Many of the same subjects are offered in the UK: business, engineering, design, computing. Provides UK-standard degrees locally. | Diverse cultural mix; potential for regional employability; perhaps lower cost of travel compared to going to the UK; lifestyle urban. |
| Malaysia Campus (Putrajaya) | Lakeside, green campus, ~25km from Kuala Lumpur. | Green design (eco features), modern classrooms, labs; student amenities; newer infrastructure; likely strong student support. | Engineering, computing, business, languages etc. Growing portfolio; local recognition plus global standard. | More affordable cost of living vs UK; cultural diversity; opportunity to get a UK degree experience without leaving the region; may have strong local employer linkages. |
Heriot-Watt University Support Services
International Student Support
- Dedicated international office with visa/immigration guidance
- Pre-arrival, orientation, and cultural integration activities
- English language support and academic workshops
- Student Wellbeing Services for health and counseling
Career Services
- Strong employability programs with global companies
- Work placements and internships across STEM and business fields
- Global alumni network of 152,000+ graduates in 190 countries
- Career fairs, employer events, and entrepreneurship hubs
Heriot-Watt University Scholarships and Financial Aid
- International Merit Scholarships (£1,500 – £5,000 reduction)
- Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarships for top international students
- Subject-specific awards (Engineering, Business, Actuarial Science)
- Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships available
Study at Heriot-Watt University?
Heriot-Watt University offers a truly global education experience with campuses in the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia. Its focus on industry partnerships, STEM innovation, and employability ensures graduates are career-ready for global opportunities.
The combination of affordable tuition, internationally recognized programs, and a supportive student environment makes Heriot-Watt a leading destination for international students.
Book a free consultation with LCI Group today to explore your opportunities at Heriot-Watt University and apply for upcoming intakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main campus is in Edinburgh, Scotland, with international campuses in Dubai and Malaysia.
Engineering, Petroleum Studies, Actuarial Science, Business, and Textiles.
Yes – up to £5,000 per year in merit-based awards.
Yes – students can move between UK, Dubai, and Malaysia campuses.
Yes – it is one of the UK’s top student destinations, known for safety, culture, and opportunities.