Student societies | New Students | The University of Edinburgh

Student societies are a great way to explore new interests, meet like-minded people, and enhance both your social and academic life.

Societies are a great opportunity to meet new people while enjoying a shared interest or trying something new. At Edinburgh, there are over 300 societies to choose from, covering a wide range of areas. On the Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) website, societies are listed in alphabetical order; for ease, we have included a table with links to specific areas for you to explore in your own time. Societies will also be present at the Welcome Week Fair, and most offer free taster sessions for new students to enjoy.


Academic Societies	Explore subjects beyond your degree, deepen your knowledge, and connect with others who share your academic interests.
Advice and Community Societies	Find support, share experiences, and connect with welcoming communities that help you feel at home.
Appreciation Societies	Celebrate the things you love, whether it’s culture, hobbies, or niche interests with others who get it.
Artistic and Creative Societies	Express yourself through art, design, writing, and more in a space that encourages creativity.
Campaigning and Awareness Societies	Get involved in causes that matter to you and help raise awareness or drive positive change.
Dance, Music and Theatre Societies	Perform, create, or simply enjoy the arts on stage, behind the scenes, or as part of an audience.
Employment, Transferable Skills and Finance Societies	Build your CV, develop practical skills, and gain insights to support your future career.
Faith, Belief Systems and Spiritual Development Societies	Connect with others who share your beliefs and explore spirituality in a supportive environment.
Gaming and Roleplaying Societies	Dive into virtual worlds, tabletop games, and shared adventures with fellow enthusiasts.
International and Multicultural Societies	Celebrate cultures from around the world and meet people from diverse backgrounds.
Media and Broadcasting Societies	Create content, tell stories, and get involved in student media, radio, or publishing.
Physical and Outdoor Societies	Stay active, try something new, and enjoy sports, fitness, and outdoor adventures.
Political Societies	Discuss ideas, debate issues, and engage with political topics and movements.
Social Enterprises Societies	Turn ideas into impact by getting involved in student-led business and social initiatives.
Volunteering Societies	Give back to the community, support meaningful causes, and make a difference locally and beyond.

This article was published on 2026-04-16