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English courses in Edinburgh

Study English in Edinburgh, Scotland’s vibrant capital—with the help of a language agency that has 30+ years’ experience.

English courses in Edinburgh
Edinburgh
5 / -2

Study English in Edinburgh and experience life in the Scottish capital

4.7
739 reviews

History, culture and modern life collide in Edinburgh. Its cobbled streets, majestic castle and literary heritage create a backdrop that’s perfect for learning English, all while immersing yourself in authentic Scottish life. The city’s vibrant arts scene, diverse neighbourhoods and student-friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming place to live and learn.

  • Live and study in iconic Edinburgh: central, safe, and full of culture

  • Flexible study options, with courses ranging from one week to 1 year

  • Personalised guidance and advice from our expert team

Edinburgh Castle and the Ross Fountain as seen from Princes Street Gardens

Find your perfect English language school in Edinburgh

All ages
Adults (Over 16)
Juniors (8 - 17)

Schools for all ages

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Kaplan International - Academic Year Abroad

Edinburgh, Scotland
4.5 Excellent (6 reviews)
Junior school

Edinburgh Summer Campus (12-17)

Edinburgh, Scotland
4.3 Great (48 reviews)

Find your ideal English course, whatever your goals

Whether you want to study for the IELTS in Edinburgh or just have an amazing time with new friends, you can tailor your English language course to suit you. 

General English

Whether you’re looking to build a foundation for your new language, improve your current skills, or just looking for a fun, educational holiday, our general programme is for you! Have lessons throughout the week and spend your weekends and evenings doing fun activities and excursions to get an appreciation of your new destination. 

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Intensive Courses

Our intensive course is based on the same model as the standard course, but at a faster pace and delivered with more depth to allow students to make faster progress.

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Exam preparation

If you’re looking to transform your language skills into a marketable qualification, there’s no better option than a language certificate. Our Exam Preparation courses will give you dedicated lessons alongside tried and tested exam techniques to make sure you get the grade you need to get your dream job or get into your dream university.

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Depends on chosen exam

  • Exams offered: IELTS

Business English

Learn to work and thrive in an international company through our Business English course. Get dedicated industry vocabulary, interview and CV making skills, Networking alongside international peers, and everything else you need to function in the globalised modern world.

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 6-10

  • Entry level: Intermediate - Advanced

Junior & Teen Programmes

Younger learners soak up knowledge like a sponge when you combine learning with fun activities and excursions. Our summer camps offer children engaging language lessons in the morning, alongside fun activities in the afternoon and at weekends. Each of our camps also has accommodation and meal options, alongside 24/7 supervision, so you can rest easy knowing we’re handling everything!

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 8

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Long-term Gap Programmes

Our long-term programmes offer you a way to go beyond the standard study abroad experience and will allow you to make a new life in Edinburgh. Whether you choose to specialise your lessons towards a goal like exam preparation or professional skills through an Academic Year Abroad, or just extend your courses through a Gap Year, you’ll stop being a student and start being a local!

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 2+ months

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Accreditations and memberships

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IALC logo

Living and learning in Edinburgh: fall in love Scotland

In Edinburgh, your English studies unfold against a backdrop of medieval castles and volcanic peaks, historic elegance and festival buzz. Between classes, you'll navigate cobbled lanes, join fellow students for coffee in cosy spots, and discover that every area tells its own story. This is a city that makes learning feel like an adventure—compact enough to feel like home within weeks, but full of surprises. 

City center of Edinburgh, United Kingdom with historic buildings and busy streets

How transport works while studying abroad in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's compact size makes it very walkable—you can get to the city centre on foot within 20 minutes from many areas. The extensive Lothian Buses network connects every neighbourhood with frequent services, and a Ridacard offers unlimited travel at student-friendly prices. Trams run from the airport to Princes Street in 35 minutes. Cycling is popular, with dedicated bike lanes across the city. Download the Transport for Edinburgh app to plan journeys effortlessly.

Group of young friends relaxing indoors, representing a house-sharing lifestyle concept

Accommodation for English courses in Edinburgh

From traditional tenement flats to modern student residences, we can help you find accommodation to suit your style and budget. Many international students choose to live with host families for full language immersion and insider knowledge of Scottish culture. Student accommodation, meanwhile, offers independence and community within walking distance of our partner schools. 

Male international student writing on whiteboard during class at Kaplan English School Santa Barbara

City attractions

Climb Arthur's Seat for sunrise views that stretch to the sea, or lose yourself in the National Museum of Scotland's free exhibitions. The Royal Mile pulses with street performers and hidden treasures, while Princes Street Gardens offers peaceful study spots beneath the castle. In August, the entire city is transformed into a stage during the world-famous Fringe Festival. The independent bookshops of the Old Town and Sunday markets in Stockbridge are always a hit, and you’re never far from a cosy pub. With beaches 20 minutes away and Highland day trips easily arranged, your weekends will never be boring. 

Choose the best neighbourhood in Edinburgh for you

Old Town

Historic Royal Mile location with medieval streets and castle views: in the city centre.

Marchmont

Leafy student area with cafés, parks and Victorian charm: 20-minute walk to the city centre.

Newington

Residential area near Arthur's Seat with local shops: 15-minute bus ride from the city centre.

Book your English course with ESL to get expert assistance at no extra cost

Studying English in Edinburgh is an incredible adventure, but it takes careful planning to make it truly unforgettable. From choosing the right course and neighbourhood to sorting visas and accommodation, our experienced team is here to handle the details.

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We are a Lifetime Award Winner after being voted Best Agency in Europe 5 times at the ST Star Awards.

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We have over 30 years of experience, starting our story as a small Swiss language school, and now one of the top language travel agencies in Europe

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Our services are completely free, and if you find your programme cheaper elsewhere, we’ll refund you the difference.

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Our agency status has been accredited by the most prestigious organisations in the language travel industry, including ICEF, WYSE, IALC, ALTO, and many more!

Getting your visa for an English course in Edinburgh

Getting a visa to study English in Edinburgh depends on which passport you hold. If you have a European passport, you’ll only need an ETA (Electronic Travel Allowance). You can apply online (it doesn’t take long), and it lets you travel up to 6 months in the UK over a period of 2 years. For longer stays, you may need a Student or Standard Visitor Visa, depending on your course length and type. Non-EU students typically need to apply in advance and show proof of enrollment and funds. Contact us and we’ll be able to give you tailored advice depending on your situation.

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The best price, or your money back!

If you find your programme somewhere else for a lower price, we’ll refund you the difference!

Worried that agencies are too expensive?

Our expert assistance comes at no extra cost!
 

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Too many destinations to choose from?

Contact our team of experts, and we’ll find out more about you to pair you with the perfect school that matches your preferences, budget, and language goals.
 

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