Semester in Stirling
University of Stirling

Why Life in Stirling

Stirling is a quaint, picturesque city that is dripping with history. The narrow cobblestone streets and large fortress will take you back in time. Stirling is also known as the Gateway to the Highlands, and it’s where William Wallace, Scotland’s national hero, famously defeated the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Stirling is the country’s capital for government and higher education, making it an ideal place to study abroad.

Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes will truly amaze you—enjoy day trips to the surrounding regions or try to spot the elusive Loch Ness monster in the Scottish Highlands. Don’t be spooked, but Stirling is home to the famous Stirling Castle, which is rumored to be haunted!

With a population of 35,000, Stirling offers city comforts in a small, safe environment. You’ll find a theater, pubs, restaurants, and clubs. You can easily access the city center from campus by regular bus service, or by walking or biking. The bustling and vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are 45 and 30 minutes away by train, respectively. Or, you can snag inexpensive flights to other European destinations.

Live The Local Life

• Farmers' markets and food festivals

  Peruse the weekly local markets and festivals, where you'll find fresh, local produce, entertainment, and insights into Scottish culture.

• Sports, both as a spectator and participant

  Football (soccer) is a national sport and popular throughout the country. You can easily find a game to join or watch. Rugby is similarly popular. And keep an eye out for shinty, the sport that likely inspired Quidditch!

• Hiking

  Head to the Scottish Highlands to enjoy scenic strolls or to summit some of hundreds of peaks of varying difficulties.

• Live music

  Music sessions pop up regularly in bars and clubs, many featuring traditional Scottish music.

Location

Live in a private room in a shared flat (apartment) with a shared bathroom, kitchen, and living area. There are multiple laundry facilities where you can do laundry for a small fee.

The University of Stirling campus is considered one of the most scenic campuses in Europe. On Semester in Stirling, most of the housing overlooks the University’s own loch. Living on or near campus is the best way to integrate yourself into university life and take advantage of all that your new home has to offer!

Meals

Meals are not included in housing. However, students will be able to eat on campus or can shop at supermarkets and prepare their own meals in their apartment kitchen.

Inclusions and Amenities

• BathroomEnsuite
• Bed linens
• CommuteWalking
• Desk
• Kitchenette
• LaundryOn-site
• Private Room
• Study Areas

Location

For an additional cost you can enjoy a single room with an ensuite bathroom in one of the campus’s newest dorms. You’ll be living apartment-style, sharing a kitchen and living area with your flatmates. There are multiple laundry facilities where you can do laundry for a small fee.

The University of Stirling campus is considered one of the most scenic campuses in Europe. Living on or near campus is the best way to integrate yourself into university life and take advantage of all that your new home has to offer! Most of the housing CIS Abroad students stay in overlooks the University’s own loch.

Meals

Meals are not included in housing. However, students will be able to eat on campus or can shop at supermarkets and prepare their own meals in their accommodation kitchens.

Inclusions and Amenities

• EnsuiteBathroom
• Bed linens
• CommuteWalking
• Desk
• Kitchen Equipment
• LaundryOn-site
• Private Room
• Study Areas

Location

The University of Stirling prioritizes accommodation for all incoming Study Abroad students who apply by the deadline dates. Accommodation will be in either University-owned or managed housing which is located both on- and off-campus. Off-campus accommodation is nearby in Stirling city center, with easy access to University bus routes. Information about applying for accommodation will be sent after students are accepted to their course of study.

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

• Full-time tuition and fees
• Housing
• Medical and accident insurance
• Academic advising
• Financial aid counseling
• Pre-departure orientation
• Assistance with travel arrangements
• CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
• Airport pickup
• On-site orientation
• Student Union fees
• Stirling University official transcript
• The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up the airport (nothing like a friendly face after a long flight!) and checked in at your accommodation. In the first few days, take part in both the University and CIS Abroad orientation program, where you’ll learn practical tips for living in Scotland like where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop. Then, it’s off to explore the capital, Edinburgh, and enjoy a welcome meal.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Many alumni stay in touch, and some revisit Scotland with friends and family. Going back home after being abroad and the personal growth during that time can be a shock to your system. Your Site Director will walk you through some of the things to expect, and reflect on your experiences abroad so that you can remember the highlights. We never say goodbye in Scotland, so before you go, we share a “haste ye back” meal to celebrate your time here and make sure you know the “Scottish welcome is always open.”