Heriot Watt University UK

English Language Requirements

In line with the Heriot-Watt University's commitment to delivering programs in English, applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the language as part of the application process. The English language requirements are outlined with meticulous detail to ensure a comprehensive understanding for prospective students.

For those aspiring to join this esteemed institution, proficiency in the English language is a prerequisite. The university meticulously outlines its English language requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Applicants can demonstrate their language proficiency through completion of a qualification equivalent to a UK degree from a majority English-speaking country, successful completion of a UK University degree within the last two academic years, or by achieving specific scores in recognized English language tests such as IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and others.

The transparent guidelines extend to postgraduate studies, including specialized programs that may necessitate higher English language proficiency. Recognizing alternative pathways, the university acknowledges successful completion of Pre-Sessional English Language Programmes, other UK University courses, and specific school-level English language qualifications from various countries. Following are the mostly accepted English Language qualifications which are accepted by Heriot-Watt University:

For Undergraduate Programmes:

• 1) IELTS: 6.0 with no score lower than 5.5
• 2) TOEFL: 79 Overall (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21)
• 3) PTE: 65 overall and a minimum of 59 in all components
• 4) LanguageCert International ESOL SELT: B2 - minimum of 33 in each of the 4 components

For Postgraduate Programmes:

• 1) IELTS: 7.0 with no score lower than 6.5
• 2) TOEFL: 90 Overall (including reading 22, listening 21, speaking 23 and writing 23)
• 3) PTE: 73 overall and a minimum of 67 in all components
• 4) LanguageCert International ESOL SELT: C1 - minimum of 25 in each of the 4 components

Note: Please look at individual courses and their English Language Requirements requirements before proceeding.

Academic Requirements:

Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom maintains a distinguished standing as a pivotal institution in the vibrant international city of Edinburgh, significantly contributing to the city's global reputation for education, business, and research. By choosing to pursue your academic journey with Heriot-Watt, you gain the advantage of residing in a world-class city while having easy access to Scotland's unparalleled hospitality, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage.

The university's community reflects a remarkable diversity, with one-third of its 9,000 students hailing from countries beyond the United Kingdom. This infusion of international perspectives enhances both the academic and social aspects of campus life, creating an environment where individuals from over 150 nations converge, fostering cross-cultural understanding and global friendships.

Undergraduate Academic Requirements:

Prospective undergraduate students are required to present evidence of their academic qualifications, typically in the form of a completed high school education or equivalent. The specific academic entry requirements may vary based on the country of origin and the education system followed by the applicant. The university provides country-specific guidelines to assist applicants in understanding the equivalence of their educational qualifications.

For instance, students from the United Kingdom may be required to possess A-levels or equivalent qualifications, while international students might need to provide proof of completion of their secondary education at an equivalent standard. The university assesses the suitability of these qualifications on a case-by-case basis.

Certain undergraduate programs may have additional subject-specific requirements or prerequisites. Prospective students are advised to consult the program-specific entry requirements to ensure they meet all necessary criteria.

Postgraduate Academic Requirements:

Applicants for postgraduate programs at Heriot-Watt University must hold a relevant undergraduate degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The academic entry requirements for postgraduate programs are specific to each course, reflecting the disciplinary and professional standards associated with the respective fields of study.

These requirements may include achieving a minimum grade or class of degree in the relevant undergraduate program. Some postgraduate courses may also require specific subject knowledge or professional experience in a related field. The university provides detailed information on its website and in course-specific requirements to guide prospective postgraduate students in understanding and fulfilling these academic prerequisites.

In summary, Heriot-Watt University's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its meticulous approach to setting and communicating clear academic entry requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to thoroughly review and understand these criteria to ensure a smooth application process and successful admission to their chosen program of study.

Accommodation:

• All new, full-time students arriving in semester 1 (September) and studying for at least 2 semesters, are guaranteed accommodation, provided their application for accommodation is received by the published deadline date. This guarantee cannot always be offered to students who arrive in semester 2 (January).

• The majority of university accommodation is on the campus in either self-catered flats or halls of residence, with high speed broadband and, across campus, Wi-Fi. International students are spread across the accommodation so that they are able to meet students from different countries and different courses of study.

• Students can apply for a 40-week or 51-week contract and can stay through the Christmas and Easter breaks.

Edinburgh Campus accommodation : There are about 2,000 residential places available on our Edinburgh Campus, all within easy reach of your lectures, sports facilities and the Students' Union. Scottish Borders Campus accommodation. There are around 200 self-catered rooms and flats on the Scottish Borders Campus, and the University also leases flats off-campus and in the town centre.

Orkney Campus accommodation : There are no halls of residence or University leased flats at the Orkney Campus, but we can help you find private accommodation locally.
 

Each year, hundreds of students enhance their educational experience through a variety of Heriot-Watt and externally funded Scholarships, including opportunities funded by the University’s generous Alumni community, based all over the globe.

The University supports scholarship provision with:

• £10m to support fees Scholarships (including £3m for rest of UK (RUK) students).

• £1.5m to support maintenance (living cost) bursaries for RUK students.

• £7.5m to support Scholarships and Bursary payments to home/EU/overseas students.

New scholarships for 2017/18 to study in Scotland from 2017/18, you may be eligible for one of our 72 new Heriot-Watt scholarships. Successful Scholars will benefit from a fee reduction in one of three categories:

• Heriot-Watt Distinction Scholarships – 100% reduction (for overseas applicants only)

• Heriot-Watt Excellence Scholarships – 50% reduction (for overseas applicants only)

• Heriot-Watt Merit Scholarships – 25% reduction (for overseas applicants), £2,000 reduction (for Home/EU/Rest of UK applicants)

• There are numerous other scholarships. Kindly refer to the university website for detailed qualifications required.

Other scholarships
You can also apply for the British Government's Chevening Scholarships, and a variety of private agencies and charities for scholarships, bursaries and grants to study in the UK. For more information visit the British Council website or the UK Council for International Student Affairs website.
 

Some key facts of Heriot Watt University, UK

• World University Rankings 2017 :401-500

• The Guardian University League Tables 2018 : 26

• QS World University Ranking 2018: 312

• The Watt Club is the oldest graduate club in the UK.

• Heriot Watt University  has over 130,000 alumni worldwide in over 190 countries.

• Heriot Watt University is the best choice for business and industry​ and our graduates are sought by the best organisations worldwide.