Prepare for study

As you start preparing for studying, there are practical digital tools that you will need to become familiar with to be able to access your learning.

You have chosen to learn more about something that excites and interests you and while studying, you will be challenged to think differently, use new technologies and produce work in ways that you have never experienced.   

Edinburgh is a welcoming environment and you are now joining us as an equal member of our academic community. We understand that at this stage, you will not know what this looks like yet and it can be difficult to know what to expect and how to best prepare. This section highlights what you need to know and do before you start to help be ready for your studies. 

Systems you will use

The University provides a range of resources to support you at the start of your student journey and throughout your studies.

Online short courses

There are free online courses that all new students should complete before starting university and optional online courses that will help you prepare for studies and university life. 

Academic support

You may have problems at certain points in your studies, perhaps in trying to keep up with the workload, making sense of what you are being taught or with personal circumstances. There are multiple services to support you and people you can contact if you need help.

Optional (elective/outside) courses

Information about optional (also known as elective or outside) courses and how to choose what is best for you. It is important that you consider your options and make decisions before you start your programme.

How you will learn

When starting a degree at university, it is likely that the learning style will be quite different to anything you have experienced before. It is helpful to get familiar with the differences and work out what is expected of you before you start.

Prepare for your first year

In this section, we highlight some of the main skills that you require and will develop in your first year at university.

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