Live in Edinburgh
When you arrive in Edinburgh, you may notice differences in the language, weather, clothing, food, and customs of the local people. Researching Edinburgh and the Scottish culture before you arrive will help you to understand what to expect when you get here.
When you arrive, it may take time to settle into your new surroundings. It's a good idea to explore Edinburgh and keep active whilst also keeping in touch with your friends and family back home.
Reflections and advice from our students:
It took me about half a year, six months, to actually settle, and now I feel like Edinburgh is like my second home
I adapted to life here by basically making friends. If you make friends, you know that you won’t be lonely; even if you’re feeling out of place, you know you have people to go to
Culture Shock Videos
Hear from current University of Edinburgh students sharing their experiences, insights and top-tips on moving to Edinburgh.
Moving to Edinburgh
- Video: Culture Shock - Moving to Edinburgh
- Hear from current students sharing their insights and experiences about the biggest culture shocks they faced when moving to Edinburgh for the first time. This video has been created by the Pre-Arrival and Induction Team, to help new students get off to a great start at University.
Food and drink in Edinburgh
- Video: Culture Shock - Food and drink in Edinburgh
- Hear from current students sharing their recommendations, top tips and favourite places to go for food and drink in Edinburgh! This video has been created by the Pre-Arrival and Induction Team, to help new students get off to a great start at University.
Navigating Welcome Week as a Postgraduate Student
- Video: Culture Shock - Navigating Welcome Week as a Postgraduate Student
- Hear from postgraduate students sharing their insights and experiences about they navigated Welcome Week, what opportunities they took advantage of and how they made new friends. This video has been created by the Pre-Arrival and Induction Team, to help new students get off to a great start at University.
Support Networks
There are plenty of support networks and opportunities available to help you make Edinburgh your new home. Getting out and about and attending events can help you feel a part of the Edinburgh and University community. Read more about things to do in Edinburgh and what's on:
Edinburgh University Students’ Association
If you want to talk about how you're feeling about arriving in a new place, the University has several services that can help, depending on your needs: