Snapshot
Dates
| Term | Application Deadline | Semester Start | Semester End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | March 15 | ||
| Academic Year 2026-27 | March 15 | ||
| Spring 2027 | October 1 |
View the University of Stirling academic calendar.
Do not make travel arrangements until you have been officially accepted to the program by the host university and they have shared arrival/orientation dates and accomodation move-in dates.
Students may participate in study abroad anytime after freshman year (or completing 24 college credits post completion of high school)
Note: Students may apply to a program during freshman year, but must have completed freshman year in good standing to participate in the program their sophomore year.
About Program
Program Overview
- Population: 94,000
- Distance to Edinburg, Scotland: 31 miles
- Distance to Belfast, Northern Ireland: 131 miles
Take in the breathtaking beauty of Scotland by studying in one of its most historic and memorable towns. Explore the many mountains, lochs, beaches, islands, and castles the country has to offer. Stirling Castle is one of the largest in all of Scotland and was once home to Mary Queen of Scots. Stirling’s history can be found in everything from the city’s architecture to the cuisine. Make sure to try haggis or learn a ceilidh dance while there.
The vibrant city offers plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife just a quick stroll from the main city center. There are plenty of fascinating activities to take part in as well like climbing the 246 steps of the Wallace Monument to enjoy stunning views of the city or visiting the Battle of Bannockburn. Stirling’s location also makes traveling across the U.K. simple with bustling cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow less than 40 miles away.
The University of Stirling itself was founded in 1967 with a focus on providing education with a purpose and carrying out research that helps shape society. It boasts a diverse campus with a total enrollment of over 14,000 students from 120+ countries. The University provides a dynamic program that will provide a well-rounded educational, social, and cultural experience.
Academics
University of Stirling
Classes at the University of Stirling are referred to as modules, and students will take 3 modules per semester.
The University of Stirling uses the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) to award credits. Generally, one module at Stirling is worth 20 SCQF credits, which equates to 5 U.S. semester credits. 3 Stirling modules (60 SCQF credits) is considered a full-semester load, and 6 modules (120 SCQF credits) is considered a full-year load.
Modules are generally taught in large or medium-sized lecture halls and are the foundation on which you're expected to explore further through independent reading and self study. Smaller seminars or tutorials sometimes supplement lectures and allow for discussion. Most modules have an end of semester examination, however, some modules also include mid-term assignments and/or continuous assessment. Grades can be determined heavily by final exams.
Each module at the University of Stirling is assigned an SCQF level from 8-10.
- Level 8 modules ≈ UMD freshman/sophomore level
- Level 9 modules ≈ UMD sophomore/junior level
- Level 10 modules ≈ UMD junior/senior level (these modules will likely have pre-requisites)
- To view modules offered and their syllabi, visit the University of Stirling Undergraduate Modules (Incoming Study Abroad) search.
- Pay attention to which semester a given module is offered; either Autumn or Spring
- Search University of Stirling courses already reviewed at UMD
- Understand how your grades abroad will convert at UMD by viewing the University of Stirling Conversion Chart
- To request disability accommodations, please contact International Programs and Services at [email protected] or 218-726-8764.
Cost Information
What’s included in the program fee?
- Personalized advising
- Pre-departure orientation
- Tuition
- Entry visa guidance
- On-site staff support
- Airport reception & pick-up service (fall semester only, sign-up required)
- Foreign transcript issuance
- Grade posting at UMD
- Foreign course evaluation at UMD
- Re-entry support
These estimated costs do not include the $50 application fee.
- Compare these program costs to UMD's cost of attendance for an academic year.
- View a list of all UMD Study Abroad program costs.
If you do not see a cost estimate for the term you intend to go abroad, the cost has not yet been determined. Please note cost estimates and fees may change depending on international economic factors. UMD Study Abroad delays the posting of final fees until enrollments, inflation, and exchange rates are determined in order to provide the most accurate pricing. We strive to post final fees by October 1 for Spring programs, March 1 for May/Summer programs, and May 1 for Fall and Academic year programs.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Scholarships
- Scholarship opportunities
- Note: Credits taken on study abroad programs cannot be used toward the Bulldog Bundle.
Financial Aid
Consult with One Stop to see how financial aid can apply to study abroad.
- Receive guidance about all things money-related
- Ask for estimates and budget samples
- Learn when and how financial aid is disbursed
- Ask about other scholarship opportunities & loan info
Plan your budget
Download this Study Abroad Budget Planning Form to estimate costs. Create duplicates to compare this program with others.
Housing
Housing Options
The University of Stirling makes a handful of select residences available to visiting study abroad students. Most accomodation options will offer private bedrooms with shared bathrooms, living spaces, and kitchens. Meals are self-catered (you cook for yourself), but there other several dining options on campus. Visit the Accomodation office webpage to see additional details details.
After you have applied and been accepted for the program, you'll receive specific details about how and when to apply for housing through the University of Stirling Accomodation office.
Travel Documents
Travel Documents
- You are required to have a passport to participate in this program. If you do not have a passport or your passport will expire within 6 months after you will return from abroad, apply for a passport as soon as possible. It can take 2+ months to receive your passport after applying. You can apply for a new passport on-campus at the UMD Passport Acceptance Facility.
- Visa guidance will be given by our office as applicable
- Roundtrip airfare should only be purchased after you have been officially accepted by the University of Stirling and know all relevant dates
The UK Student Visa guidance document can assist you with the visa application process. Study abroad staff will keep this document as up to date as possible, however, you should always check the U.K. Visas & Immigration website for the most up to date information. You will receive more detailed information and advisement once you are confirmed in this program.
Contact
Alum
Want to talk to someone who's completed the program? Contact the alumni below.
Apply
Before you click on the "Start my application" button below, make sure you know how to identify the correct program by searching for the:
- Program Name: UMD - Study in Stirling, Scotland: University of Stirling;
and the - Term (e.g. Spring Semester 2026 or Academic Year 2026–2027)
A $50 non-refundable application fee will be billed to your One Stop account upon submission of an application.
After you apply
- After approximately 20 minutes, you will see checklist items for you to complete.
- It is recommended that you complete the checklist items within a month of applying, as applicable. Pre-departure Orientation details will be sent closer to the event date (usually April for fall/summer applicants and November for spring/winter break applicants).
- Your UMD Program Contact will review your application materials.
- You must complete the Confirmation of Participation form to confirm your participation.
- Once we receive your confirmation, your UMD account will be billed a confirmation deposit.
If you decide you cannot participate, you must log in to the online application system and submit the "Cancellation Request form."
Program health and safety information
is available at GO SAFE.
