Glasgow is a great city for domestic and international students alike. As Scotland’s most diverse city, there’s loads to do here and lots of like-minded people to meet.
Historically, Glasgow has been voted one of the friendliest cities, making it the perfect destination for international students to call home.
Scotland as a whole is a world-reputed destination for studying and is home to many globally recognized universities. With Glasgow being the largest city in Scotland, students studying here can benefit from a great education and experience the city’s rich culture and history.
We’ve put together the top reasons to study in Glasgow as an international student so you can get the lowdown on the city, from settling into making the place feel like home in no time.
What’s it like to be a student in Glasgow?
Scotland as a whole is known for its fantastic education system and has the highest concentration of universities in Europe. With so many universities in such close proximity, student life in Glasgow can never be accused of being boring!
As the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is a melting pot of culture, entertainment and rich history. Not only is it full of sightseeing, shopping and galleries it’s also one of Europe’s greenest cities.
What can you expect as a student in Glasgow? A great nightlife, a brilliant food scene and stunning university campuses are all things you can look forward to.
No matter which Glaswegian university you’re planning on attending, the grounds are something to be marveled at. Glasgow University can resemble something out of the Harry Potter books, while other campuses are dynamic and modern.
All Glasgow-based universities welcome international students and offer support for non-English native speakers. Most universities can also offer help with visa applications and travel too, so you’ll have everything you need to get settled.
Cool student bars and restaurants
Student life in Glasgow means socializing, and where better than the great restaurants and bars the city has to offer?
Glasgow is renowned for its wide range of dining options, so students will never be short of options for a bite to eat. From independent options in Finnieston to fine dining in the West End, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
If you’re interested in nightlife, you’re in luck. Glasgow is full of bars aimed at students. Head to Ashton Lane or Firewater on the iconic Sauchiehall Street for a night you won’t forget.
Activities and culture
Studying internationally gives you the chance to immerse yourself in everything the city has to offer.
Glasgow has been hailed as the art and culture hub of Scotland, with museums, art galleries, and live music fueling the city with creativity.
Don’t miss out on Kelvingrove Art Gallery, a riverside museum home to the award-winning Burrell Collection.
If you’re a music lover, Glasgow is full of iconic venues, such as King Tuts, and the SSE Hydro, which is ranked as one of the best arenas in the world.
Glasgow is famed for its football too, as the home of the Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers. The two-team rivalry has deep roots in Scottish religious and political history, so it’s worth trying to get tickets during your time in the city.
Getting around Glasgow as a student
Luckily for students, Glasgow is easy to navigate via their Subway system. You can buy a student Smartcard to get around quickly and easily.
Most universities are centrally located, so you won’t need to worry about traveling far to get to lectures. Glasgow is also pedestrian and cycle-friendly if you prefer a more environmentally friendly approach to travel.
There are regular buses in and out of the city center, and Glasgow is well connected to other Scottish cities and England via rail services if you fancy exploring a little further afield.
Exploring Glasgow and beyond
With loads of live music, fantastic sporting events and a city full of museums and culture, you’ll never get bored of finding new places in Glasgow to explore.
Other highlights include Glasgow International Comedy Festival and a visit to Mitchell Library.
If you fancy exploring wider Scotland during your time in the country, Loch Lomond is only 30 minutes by car, or the Isle of Arran is a peaceful ferry trip away.
The city of Glasgow is an exciting place full of history and culture. Once you’ve navigated the first few weeks of student life, you’ll be sure to settle in and feel at home as an international student.
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