Scholar support

Support is a core part of Education Beyond Borders (EBB). From welcome to graduation, the EBB team supports students throughout their time in Edinburgh.

Many displaced students arrive carrying significant disruption – to their studies, finances and sometimes their sense of what is possible. EBB provides practical and pastoral support before arrival and throughout their research. This includes:

  • financial help for travel and equipment
  • peer networks
  • academic guidance
  • space to raise problems before they become crises.

How we support you

We coordinate events, provide information and act as a first point of contact if you need help. Whether you are looking for advice, practical support or just a friendly chat, you can contact us to arrange a meeting.

Our approach is person-centred and shaped by the experiences and feedback of our students. We regularly gather feedback through conversations, focus groups and surveys, and work closely with teams across the University to provide joined-up support.

All EBB students have access to one-to-one support from the team. We schedule drop-in sessions at the beginning of each semester to check-in on your progress and wellbeing, but we also encourage students to reach out at any time to schedule a one-to-one chat either online or in person. These meetings are informal and a chance for you get the support you need.

If we are not the right people to help directly, we’ll connect you to the appropriate service within the University or in the city.


We run a range of social activities throughout the year to help students connect with each other and feel part of a community. These include:

  • welcome events for each cohort
  • day trips (such as North Berwick or Jupiter Artland)
  • informal meet-ups such as group meals, bowling and board games
  • cultural celebrations and events
  • graduation dinners

These activities provide space to take a break from studies and build relationships with others.


We recognise that returning to study - or studying in a new system or language - can be challenging. We work with colleagues across the University to offer sessions that support academic and professional development, including:

  • academic writing and research skills
  • dissertation planning and project management
  • time management and study strategies
  • careers support (for applications, networking and job searching)

These sessions are designed to build confidence and support students throughout their studies.


The EBB Mentoring Programme matches students with staff from across the University to provide additional support during their studies.

Mentors offer a consistent point of contact and can support with academic development, confidence-building and navigating University life. Many students find this particularly helpful during the winter months, when settling in can feel more difficult.

The programme is also a valuable opportunity for staff to build connections and develop their mentoring skills.


Each year, a group of students take on a Student Champion role within their cohort. Student Champions help share information, organise activities and provide feedback to the EBB team. They also have opportunities to take part in training and represent the programme at events.


EBB works closely with teams across the University to make sure students can access the right support when they need it. This includes services such as:

If you are not sure where to start, the EBB team can help connect you to the right people.


Contact the team

Contact details

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