University of Edinburgh housing options are located throughout the city, many of which are in the historic Old Town which has UNESCO World Heritage status. Other locations include the popular Marchmont area, close to The Meadows and Holyrood Park, where the ancient volcano, Arthur’s Seat, towers over the city.

The majority of options are self-catered (prepare your own meals) facilities, with single bedrooms in self-contained apartments (4-12 occupants with shared bathroom, living, and kitchen facilities), with other International and Study Abroad students.

Catered options are available, all located within the Pollock Halls Student Village where the dormitory-style housing complex is served by a central dining hall, which caters for all dietary requirements. Meals included are breakfast and dinner on weekdays and brunch and dinner on weekends. 


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Accommodation Options
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You must complete and submit a Housing Preference form as part of your Arcadia application, selecting 5 options from the list. Arcadia will submit this to the University of Edinburgh on your behalf. Please note that you are not guaranteed your top choice and Arcadia cannot influence a decision on where a student is placed.

The following complexes are examples of where Arcadia students are commonly allocated when studying at the University of Edinburgh:

Self-Catered Options

The options listed below all offer single bedrooms with shared bathroom, living, and kitchen facilities. The links provided more information with regard to location, etc. Please note, these are examples of the facilities available. You can find more detailed information on all self-catered options on the University of Edinburgh website.

Catered Options (all within Pollock Halls)

If you prefer housing with a catered option, you should select Pollock Halls as your first choice. There are a variety of rooming options within Pollock Halls and allocation is based on availability. If you have a preference, please add this as a note on your Housing Preference form. For additional information, visit the University of Edinburgh website,

All housing options include:

  • Fully furnished bedrooms including wardrobes, desks, and sufficient storage.
  • Arcadia will provide a link to purchase a bedding pack and other incidentals before arrival.
  • You should bring towels. 
  • Shared common areas
  • Kitchen or kitchenette facilities for preparing meals. You must provide your own cookware and utensils. 
  • High Speed Wi-Fi throughout the housing complex
  • Basic contents insurance
  • On-site, pay-as-you-go laundry facilities
  • 24/7 security and staff assistance

Please also see the main Scotland housing page for more information relating to housing in Scotland.