Student news

Winter break support

Support is available to all our students during the winter break, if you need it.

Christmas tree at the Old College Quad

For the 2023 festive period, most University services will close at 5pm on Thursday 21 December 2023, and reopen at 9am on Wednesday 3 January 2024.  

We continue to support students during the break, with emergency support available 24/7. You can access this support whether you’re staying in Edinburgh or travelling further afield. 

Crisis support 

If you need help in a crisis during the winter break, please get in touch with the University Security Team on 0131 650 2257. Help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We recommend you save this phone number.  

Wellbeing support 

The University Listening Service offers 24/7 support for all students, including through the break. You can contact the service through Security on 0131 650 2257. 

The Listening Service  

Financial support 

If you need access to emergency financial support during the break, please also contact Security on 0131 650 2257. 

University financial support  

Students in University-managed accommodation 

If you’re staying in University-managed accommodation, the Residence Life Team will be organising events over the winter break. These events will be advertised via email and on the University’s Residence Life Facebook pages, so do keep an eye on these. 

Any urgent wellbeing or safety concerns can be raised through the Community Support Team on 0131 667 1971. Any non-urgent concerns can be emailed to reslife@ed.ac.uk 

Library opening times 

If you’re studying over the winter break, the Main Library will be open most days with reduced hours. Please visit the library webpages for details. Don't forget to check before you travel for any late notice changes. 

Opening hours of all libraries 

Staying active over the holidays 

From Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 December students can use the Pleasance Gym for free. Find out more about our sport and exercise offering over the holidays: 

Festive Information Hub

Related links 

Semester dates