How do I apply for a course at Edinburgh College?
Choosing your next step after school, returning to study, or upskilling can feel daunting, but we are here for you every step of the way. We have teams to support with your application, talk you through your funding options and offer you mental health support and career guidance.
We offer a diverse range of courses for you to choose from and a welcoming, inclusive environment for your studies. We have answered a few commonly asked questions below to help with your application to study with us.
How do I apply for a course at Edinburgh College?
To apply for your chosen college course, visit the course page on our website. Click the blue ‘apply’ button and follow the steps.
If you need support or advice with your application, visit our application advice page. We offer support and advice on topics such as entry requirements and why they are important, writing a strong application and personal statement, as well as help with interviews and auditions.
Are Edinburgh College applications open?
Yes! Applications are now open for courses starting in August 2023. We welcome students from over 139 countries worldwide, who choose from over 700 courses across 25 different subject areas – you are bound to find something you like.
When should I apply for Edinburgh College?
Applications are open now for courses starting in August 2023. Our applications will remain open until the summer, and we will offer clearing places if we have course vacancies remaining in August.
We would recommend that you apply for your course as early as you can, to avoid disappointment.
When do Edinburgh College courses start?
College courses start in August 2023. If that’s too early for you, don’t worry! Applications for courses starting in January will open later this year, and courses for August 2024 open early next year.
How many hours is a full-time course?
Full time courses range from 15-20 hours per week, giving you time to balance part time work and other commitments around your studies.
- For a National Qualification (NQ) and other non-advanced courses starting in August, you will generally be required to attend approximately 20 hours/3.5 days per week for a year.
- If you are applying to Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/D) courses, you will be required to attend college approximately 15 hours/3 days a week. Full-time HNC courses run for one year, and full-time HND courses run for two years.
The number of teaching hours varies between course areas and the SCQF qualification level. Each course on our website will have information about the time commitment required from you to complete the qualification.
Will Edinburgh College help me get to university?
Many of our courses offer links with university and pathways to enter degree courses at second year level.
We have established pathways with universities such as Heriot Watt, Napier, and Queen Margaret University and this is a route that many of our students have taken.
Read about one of our past students and her journey to university through Edinburgh College here.
Where can I learn more about Edinburgh College before I apply?
If you’d still like to learn more about Edinburgh College before you apply, you can come along to one of our open days.
Visiting us on campus gives you the chance to look at our facilities, hear more about the courses and support that we offer and receive in-person advice on the application process. It is also a great opportunity to get a taster of student life at Edinburgh College!
