Study in Scotland

Scotland's tradition of excellence in education is world renowned.

It has 15 universities, six specialist higher education institutions and 43 further education colleges.

And, all overseas students graduating from a Scottish university or college with an HND, undergraduate degree, masters, PhD, postgraduate certificate or diploma can apply to stay on and work in Scotland for an additional two years under the government's Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland scheme.

As long ago as 1696, the Scottish Parliament passed an Act establishing a school in every parish, making Scotland the first country in the world to introduce universal school education.

When other countries such as France and America developed formal education systems they looked to Scotland for a model.

Scots know the value of good education.

More than half of all school leavers go onto college or university – by far the highest proportion of any part of the UK – the figures for overseas students studying in Scotland, rises every year.

There were 51,140 students from overseas studying in Scottish Institutions in 2006-2006.The figures are published annually.

get the latest figures statistics