University of Edinburgh (UoE) acceptance rate for undergraduate admissions

Each year, thousands of students apply to University of Edinburgh in hopes of securing a place in its undergraduate programs. In 2023/2024, the university received a total of 66293 applications. Of these, 31132 offers were extended, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 46.96%.

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Historical acceptance rates for University of Edinburgh (UoE)

The table below provides the most recent admissions data for University of Edinburgh, including the number of applications, offers made, and acceptance rate for the last 5 years.

Understanding acceptance rates

What is an acceptance rate?

An acceptance rate is the percentage of applicants who receive an offer from University of Edinburgh. There are different ways to calculate acceptance rates, but on this page we use the offer acceptance rate, as it gives a more consistent measure of how selective a course or subject area tends to be. This is because it reflects admissions decisions alone, without being affected by whether applicants choose to accept their offer. A lower acceptance rate usually indicates a more competitive admissions process. Acceptance rates can vary from year to year due to changes in application numbers, university policies, and national trends.

Why do acceptance rates vary?

Several factors affect a university’s overall acceptance rate, including its popularity, ranking, and available course places. For example, a top-ranked university may attract more applicants, making entry more competitive. Smaller institutions may get fewer applications but also have fewer spots, again influencing the acceptance rate.

How to improve your chances of admission to University of Edinburgh

Getting into university isn’t just about meeting the minimum requirements, strong applications stand out. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Academic Performance: Your A Level grades are a crucial part of your application. Study and prepare for your A Level exams to ensure you get the best possible marks in your chosen subjects. Universities typically have grade requirements, so exceeding them can give you a competitive edge.
• Personal Statement: This is your chance to tell your story, why you want to study your chosen course, what interests you, and what makes you a great candidate. Highlight your achievements, experiences, and aspirations to make your application stand out.
• Admissions Tests & Interviews: Some universities require additional assessments, such as entrance exams or interviews. Research the requirements of your chosen university and prepare in advance by practising past papers and honing your interview techniques.
• Extracurricular Activities & Work Experience: Universities appreciate well-rounded students. Showcase leadership, passion, and commitment beyond the classroom. Join clubs, volunteer, intern, or gain relevant work experience to stand out from other applicants.
• Strong References: Teacher and mentor recommendations can boost your application. You can build strong relationships with them by showing commitment to both your work and extracurriculars. In turn, you’ll earn stronger, more personalised references.
• Course-Specific Requirements: Some courses have specific entry requirements, such as a portfolio for arts programmes or relevant work experience for medical degrees. Make sure you are aware of these and start preparing early.

Mastering your A Levels: A key step to securing university admission

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What factors affect the acceptance rate at University of Edinburgh?

Application Volume & Competition:The number of applications received each year plays a major role in determining the acceptance rate at University of Edinburgh. A rise in applicants for a limited number of places naturally makes admissions more competitive. On the other hand, application cycles with fewer applications may increase the likelihood of securing an offer.

Academic Entry Requirements:University of Edinburgh sets specific academic standards that applicants must meet. These typically include minimum a level grades, UCAS Tariff points, or equivalent international qualifications. Competitive courses demand higher grades, so exceeding the entry requirements can boost your chances of an offer.

Admissions Assessments & Selection Process:For certain degree programmes, University of Edinburgh may require additional admissions tests to evaluate subject knowledge and critical thinking skills. Certain courses also include interviews to assess your suitability, motivation, and problem-solving skills. To stand out in a competitive applicant pool, preparation is key.

Course Capacity & Availability of Places:The available places at University of Edinburgh vary by course and academic year. Competitive courses with limited spaces have lower acceptance rates. Applicants should look into course capacity trends to gauge the competition.

Domestic vs. International Student Admissions:Universities often have different quotas or policies for domestic and international students, which can impact acceptance rates. Some institutions prioritise domestic applicants due to government regulations, while others actively recruit international students to enhance diversity. Understanding these policies can help applicants gauge their chances of securing a place at University of Edinburgh.

Holistic Application Review & Extracurricular Achievements:Beyond academic performance, University of Edinburgh considers an applicant’s extracurricular activities, work experience, and independent projects. Strong engagement in relevant activities demonstrates passion, commitment, and suitability for university life. While grades remain a primary factor, well-rounded candidates who showcase leadership, initiative, and subject-related experience often have a competitive edge.

By understanding these factors, prospective students can make informed decisions and strategically strengthen their university applications.

How does University of Edinburgh compare to other universities?

Subject areas with the highest and lowest acceptance rates at University of Edinburgh

Courses with the highest and lowest acceptance rates at University of Edinburgh