Heriot-Watt University Admissions 2024-25

Heriot-Watt University is a prestigious institution located in Edinburgh, Scotland, with additional campuses in Dubai and Malaysia. Founded in 1821, it is the eighth-oldest higher education institution in the UK. Heriot-Watt offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various disciplines, including business, engineering, and art. The university has a strong international focus, with over 20% of its student population coming from across nations. 

The university considers each application carefully, considering the applicant's statement, references, and grades. Offers made to applicants can be unconditional (meeting entry requirements) or conditional (meeting specified entry requirements). Heriot-Watt University is committed to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and supporting international students through its International Students Advice Office.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

Careful planning is essential to increase your chances during the Heriot-Watt University admission process. Students must be one step ahead of their basic steps. The following section will help you do so!

Programme admission is determined through an individual assessment process, where experience and skills are valued alongside formal qualifications. The university seeks evidence of motivation, an understanding of the proposed programme of study's aims, and references.

 

Entry Requirements For Indian Students 

These entry requirements are provided as a general guide. For the specific requirements for your desired programme, please contact the university or the school's admissions tutor (the link is mentioned in the first paragraph). Students can also approach UniScholars experts to simplify their complete application process. 

 

Foundation programmes

Suppose you wish to study in the UK but need to meet the entry requirements for the degree programmes. In that case, it is recommended that you enrol in a Foundation Programme, which is available at the Dubai and Malaysia campuses.

 

Undergraduate Admissions

Year 1

• For most subjects, an overall score of 70% in Year 12 state board high school examinations, including at least 70% in relevant subjects, is required. For instance, you need 70% in Maths and Chemistry to study Chemical Engineering.
• For Computer Science programmes, an overall score of 65% in Year 12 state board high school examinations, including 65% in Maths, is required.
• Mathematics requires an overall score of 70% in Year 12 state board high school examinations, with 70% in Maths.
• Actuarial mathematics and statistics require an overall score of 75% in Year 12 state board high school examinations, with 80% in maths.
• The required pass mark for students taking the West Bengal State Board examinations is 65%.

Year 2

• Students with high scores in Year 12 (80% or above) will clear the Heriot-Watt University eligibility criteria for direct entry into Year 2 of the degree programmes. For Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics, an additional requirement of 85% in Maths is necessary.
• Direct entry into Year 2 for Computer Science is generally not available.
• Students wishing to study Mathematics may gain entry into Year 2 with an overall average of 75%, including 75% in Maths.

Postgraduate Admissions

Most Master' s-level programmes require a good first degree in a relevant subject. This typically means a 55% or above score in most Indian universities.

Students with slightly lower grades (52% or above) from universities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Madras, Pune, Bangalore, and Rajasthan may also be considered, depending on other factors such as relevant work experience and the quality of references provided.

 

English Language Requirements 

Since the programmes are delivered and assessed in English, applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English as part of the application process. This can be achieved through one of the following ways:

1. Majority English-Speaking Country: You are from a majority English-speaking country or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree from such a country, as defined by UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI). Refer to the list of UKVI Majority English-speaking countries. The qualification must have been obtained within five years before the enrolment date of the programme you are applying for.
2. University Qualification: You have completed a university qualification equivalent to a UK degree. This qualification must have been taught at an overseas university campus based in a country recognised by the UKVI as a majority English-speaking country. The qualification must have been obtained within three years before the enrolment date of the programme you are applying for.
3. English Language Tests: You have passed one of the accepted English language tests within the last two years at the required levels. They must verify the test results, so you must upload the original certificate as part of your application.

 

Accepted English language Tests - postgraduate taught study
Test	Pre Masters	Pre Masters Accelerated	PGT (Engineering, Science, Maths and Computing programmes)	PGT Business, Psychology, Design & Actuarial programmes)	Interpreting/
IELTS Academic	5.5 with no score lower than 5.5	6.0 with no score lower than 5.5	6.0 with no score lower than 5.5	6.5 with no score lower than 6.0	7 with no score lower than 6.5
PTE Academic	60 (minimum 59)	65 (minimum 59)	65 (minimum 59)	68 (minimum 63)	73 (minimum 67)
TOEFL iBT	72 (Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17)	79 (Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 21)	79 (Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 21)	85 (Reading 20, Listening 19, Speaking 20, Writing 21)	90 (Reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, Writing 23)
Cambridge (new)	N/A	169-175	169 - 175	176-184	N/A
Trinity ISE II	N/A	Pass in all components	Pass in all components	Pass in all components	N/A
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT	B2: Minimum of 28 in each of the four components	B2: Minimum of 33 in each of the four components	B2: Minimum of 33 in each of the four components	B2: Minimum of 36 in each of the four components	C1: minimum of 25 in each of the four components
CEFR	B2	B2	B2	Mid - High B2	High B2 or Low C1
SELT Required?	No	No	No	No	No

 

Documents

To apply, prospective students must prepare various documents. Here is a list of the required Heriot-Watt University documents for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions:

• Required Documents
• Academic transcripts
• CV / Resume
• Personal statement
• Letter of recommendation
• Degree certificates
• English language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
• Copy of the picture page of the passport
• Statement of purpose (for some programmes)
• Academic references (for some programmes)
• Evidence of name change (if applicable)
• Tuberculosis test certificate (if applicable)

For more detailed information on the application process or assistance with your application, you can contact UniScholars experts.

 

How To Apply To Heriot-Watt University?

Applying to Heriot-Watt University involves a structured process for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Here are the detailed steps for each level of study.

Undergraduate Admissions

• Research Courses: Explore the available undergraduate programmes and choose your preferred course.
• Create UCAS Account: Register on the UCAS website to begin your application.
• Complete Application: Fill in personal, educational, and employment details in the UCAS application form.
• Prepare Documents: Gather required documents such as academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Submit Application: Pay the application Heriot Watt University fee and submit your application through UCAS by the deadline (January 31 for most courses).
• Await Response: Monitor your UCAS Track for offers, which can be unconditional or conditional.
• Accept Offer: Respond to your offers by the deadline indicated in your UCAS Track.

 

Postgraduate Admissions

• Choose Programme: Identify the postgraduate programme you wish to apply for.
• Online Application: Access the Heriot-Watt online application portal.
• Fill Application Form: Complete the application form with personal and academic details.
• Upload Documents: Please submit supporting documents, including academic transcripts, CVs, passport copies, and English proficiency test scores.
• Submit Application: Review your application and submit it through the portal.
• Check Application Status: Keep track of your application status and await a response from the university.
• Accept Offer: Follow the instructions to accept and confirm your enrollment if offered a place.

These steps will guide you through the application process for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Heriot-Watt University.

 

Deadlines

Heriot-Watt University deadlines are specific for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Here’s a summary of the critical deadlines for prospective students:

Undergraduate Deadlines

• Application for Most Undergraduate Courses: January 26, 2024
• UCAS Extra: July 4, 2024

Postgraduate Deadlines

• General Postgraduate Courses: August 2, 2024 (for courses starting in September)
• International Applicants: Advised to apply at least six weeks before the programme commences.

Semester Deadlines for Visiting Students

• Semester 1 (Fall): May 31
• Semester 2 (Spring): October 31

These deadlines are crucial for ensuring timely application processing and securing a place in the desired programme at Heriot-Watt University.

 

Decision Dates

Heriot-Watt University has specific decision dates for applicants, which vary depending on the type of programme and the application cycle. Here are the key decision dates for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions:

Undergraduate Admissions

• Applications Submitted by January 31: Decisions are typically made by May 19.
• UCAS Extra Applications (if applicable): Decisions are usually communicated by July 17.

Postgraduate Admissions

• General Postgraduate Applications: Decisions are generally made within a few weeks of submission, but applicants are advised to apply by August 2 for programmes starting in September.

These timelines are essential for prospective students to keep track of their application status and plan accordingly.

 

Heriot-Watt University Selection Criteria

Heriot-Watt University evaluates applicants based on academic achievements, personal statements, and references. Key criteria include:

• Academic Qualifications: Strong academic records relevant to the chosen course.
• English Language Proficiency: Non-native speakers need proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Personal Statement: A well-articulated statement showcasing motivation, understanding of the course, and career aspirations.
• References: Positive and relevant academic or professional references.
• Work Experience: For certain programmes, relevant work experience may enhance an application.
• Interview: Some courses may require an interview to assess suitability and interest.

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a passion for their chosen field and alignment with Heriot-Watt's values and strengths.

 

Heriot-Watt University Acceptance Rate

The Heriot-Watt University acceptance rate is estimated to be around 60%. However, there are varying reports regarding this figure, with some sources suggesting it could be as high as 70% or between 80-85%, depending on the specific programme and applicant pool. 

The university's admissions process is considered moderately competitive, as it typically requires applicants to meet specific academic qualifications without strict competition among candidates for available spots.

 

Fees

Heriot-Watt University fees vary based on the level of study and residency status. Here’s a breakdown of the fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes:

Undergraduate Fees

• International Students: £18,704 to £24,048 per year.
• UK Students: Typically £9,250 per year for BA/BSc/MA honours degrees.

Postgraduate Fees

• International Students: £19,056 to £26,976 per year.
• UK Students: Tuition fees vary by programme; students should refer to the specific programme for exact figures.

Additional Costs

• Accommodation: Costs vary based on the type of accommodation chosen.
• Living Expenses: Estimated at £2,000 to £2,500 per semester.

Heriot-Watt University also offers scholarships and bursaries to help students manage their tuition costs.