University of Edinburgh Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide
Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the University of Edinburgh
Starting at the University of Edinburgh means joining one of the world's leading universities and a proud member of the Russell Group. Whether you're moving into university accommodation for your first year or renting privately later in your degree, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of student life.
Located across several campuses in Scotland's capital, the University is internationally recognised for its strengths in medicine, veterinary medicine, engineering, informatics, business, law, humanities, science and social sciences. With centuries of academic excellence, outstanding research facilities and one of Europe's most beautiful cities on your doorstep, your accommodation soon becomes the place where you'll study, relax and recharge.
This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to the University of Edinburgh, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.
University of Edinburgh at a Glance
📍 Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
🎓 Student Population: Around 49,000 students
🏠 Popular Accommodation: University residences include Pollock Halls, Kincaid's Court, Deaconess House, Darroch Court, Hermit's Croft, Holland House, Beaverbank Place, Shrubhill House, Pentland House, O'Shea Hall and many more across the city. The University guarantees an accommodation offer for eligible new students who meet the published conditions and apply before the deadline. (ed.ac.uk)
🛒 Nearby Shopping: Princes Street, St James Quarter, Cameron Toll Shopping Centre, Tesco, Lidl, Sainsbury's and Edinburgh city centre
🚆 Transport: Edinburgh has excellent bus, tram and rail services connecting all university campuses, accommodation and the wider city.
Student Accommodation at the University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh offers one of the UK's largest student accommodation portfolios, with residences located close to the University's main teaching areas, including Central Area, King's Buildings, Holyrood and the BioQuarter.
One of the best-known options is Pollock Halls, a large catered accommodation village close to Arthur's Seat, popular with first-year undergraduates. Other residences include Kincaid's Court, Deaconess House, Darroch Court, Hermit's Croft, Holland House, Beaverbank Place, Shrubhill House, Pentland House and O'Shea Hall, offering a mix of catered, self-catered, en-suite and shared accommodation. Utility bills, Wi-Fi and contents insurance are generally included.
The University guarantees an accommodation offer for eligible new undergraduate students who firmly accept Edinburgh as their first-choice university and apply before the published accommodation deadline. International postgraduate students meeting the published criteria are also covered by an accommodation guarantee. (ed.ac.uk)
Many returning students rent shared flats in Marchmont, Newington, Bruntsfield, Morningside, Leith and Tollcross.
Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory so you know exactly what's already provided.
What Should You Pack?
Preparing before move-in day makes settling into university life much easier.
Bedroom Essentials
Make your room comfortable with:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bedding sets
- Mattress protector
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry basket
- Storage boxes
- Soft lighting
Kitchen Essentials
If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:
- Plates and bowls
- Cutlery
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Food storage containers
- Tea towels
- Washing-up supplies
Bathroom Essentials
Pack your everyday necessities, including:
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Shower caddy
- Cleaning products
Study Essentials
University of Edinburgh students balance lectures with seminars, laboratory work, placements, research projects and independent study. Creating a comfortable workspace helps you stay organised throughout the academic year.
Useful items include:
- Desk organiser
- Adjustable desk lamp
- Extension lead
- Laptop accessories
- Cable organisers
- Storage for textbooks and coursework
- Notebooks and stationery
Experience Student Life in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the world's best student cities. From the historic Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle to the vibrant cafés of Newington, the festivals of August and the green spaces of Holyrood Park, there's always something happening beyond your studies.
The University's reputation attracts students from more than 150 countries, creating a diverse international community supported by hundreds of clubs, societies and sports teams. Combined with Edinburgh's thriving financial, technology and creative sectors, students benefit from exceptional placement and graduate career opportunities.
After a busy day of lectures, society events or exploring the city, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and feels like home.
Popular with University of Edinburgh students include:
- Comfortable bedding and mattress accessories
- Soft lighting for a cosy atmosphere
- Space-saving storage solutions
- Desk organisers for studying
- Kitchen essentials for shared accommodation
- Practical everyday accessories that make student life easier
All Loomz products are selected with student accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.
Why Students Choose Loomz
Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes student accommodation feel like home.
✔ Designed specifically for student accommodation
✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget
✔ Perfect for halls, studios and shared houses
✔ Free UK delivery
✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier
Helpful Student Guides
Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:
- UK University Packing Checklist
- Student Accommodation Guides
- University Move-In Checklist
- Bedroom Essentials Guide
- Kitchen Essentials Guide
- Bathroom Essentials Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is accommodation guaranteed at the University of Edinburgh?
Yes. The University guarantees an accommodation offer for eligible new undergraduate students who firmly accept Edinburgh as their first-choice university and apply before the published deadline. Eligible international postgraduate students are also covered by an accommodation guarantee. (ed.ac.uk)
Where do University of Edinburgh students live?
Many first-year students live in Pollock Halls, Kincaid's Court, Deaconess House, Darroch Court, Hermit's Croft or Holland House. Returning students commonly rent shared flats in Marchmont, Newington, Bruntsfield, Morningside and Leith.
Can I personalise my student room?
Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.
What should I buy before moving to the University of Edinburgh?
Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. Preparing your room before move-in day helps you settle in quickly and stay organised throughout the academic year.
Ready for the University of Edinburgh?
Moving to the University of Edinburgh means joining one of the world's leading universities while living in one of Europe's most historic and inspiring cities. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy everything Edinburgh has to offer.
Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at the University of Edinburgh.