Heriot-Watt University
Description
Founded in 1821, Heriot-Watt University (HWU) has a rich heritage and an established reputation as a leading research-led university and provider of education around the world. As one of the most progressive and international institutions based in Scotland, students have the opportunity to thrive, both personally and academically during their time there. The School of Textiles and Design is one of the oldest textiles institutes in the world dating back to 1883. It is located at the Scottish Borders campus in Galashiels, which is in the heart of Scotland’s luxury textile industry and a short train ride away from the center of Edinburgh.
Eligible Majors:
- Fabric Styling
- Textile Surface Design
Program Type: Exchange
“Exchange” lets you study abroad at a partner school while paying FIT tuition, with
limited spots available.
Looking to Fund Your Study Abroad Experience?
FIT offers competitive scholarships - up to $10,000 - for students enrolled full-time while abroad. Awards are based on an essay, recommendations, GPA and financial need. Learn more about Paying for Study Abroad.
Review the HWU Program Financial Budget Sheet (Google Doc) and meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss your program costs.
Eager to Study Abroad? Apply Now!
Submit your application through the Study Abroad Portal and then complete the required Course Equivalency Form with your Office of International Programs (OIP) program coordinator. After that, your department will review your completed course plan and application. See How to Apply step-by-step.
Program Details
If you have further questions about this program, contact the International Programs office at (212) 217-5380 or [email protected]
Fall Semester: Applications reviewed and approved on a rolling basis through February 15
Spring Semester: Applications reviewed and approved on a rolling basis through September 15
Note: Early applicants receive preference.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Enrollment: Must be matriculated in a Bachelor's degree program
- Capacity: As an exchange program, it operates on a 1:1 ratio—meaning for every FIT student studying abroad, an international student studies at FIT. This limited capacity means spots can be competitive.
Additional Requirements by Major:
Fabric Styling
- Meet with an academic advisor and/or thoroughly review degree requirements in Degree Works
- Meet with an OIP program coordinator
- Obtain approval from the department chair or international coordinator
- Students study within the BA (Hons) Fashion Branding and Promotion, BA (Hons) Design for Textiles (Fashion, Interior, Art), or BA (Hons) Fashion programs at HWU and fulfill 7th semester major and related area and general elective courses by taking modules worth a total of 45 UK credits.
- Eligible to participate in the 7th semester (Fall only)
Textile/Surface Design
- Meet with an academic advisor and/or thoroughly review degree requirements in Degree Works
- Meet with an OIP program coordinator
- Obtain approval from the department chair or international coordinator
- Students study within the BA (Hons) Design for Textiles (Fashion, Interior, Art) program at HWU and fulfill 6th or 7th semester major/related area and general elective courses by taking modules (focusing on weaving or printing) worth 45 UK credits.
- Eligible to participate in the 6th or 7th semester
A full-time semester credit load at Heriot-Watt University (HWU) consists of 60 UK credits. Major- and related-area credit is available. Liberal arts credit is limited to Art History, but students may also take liberal arts and other courses online at FIT at no additional expense as this is an exchange program.
Liberal Arts Course Information
Students may fulfill one 3-credit Art History (G7) course by taking a Critical and
Contextual Studies module worth 15 UK credits.
A detailed Academic Calendar can be viewed on the Heriot-Watt website.
Students are generally expected to arrive the weekend before orientation begins.
Students are responsible for making their own accommodation arrangements for the duration of their stay. Students may apply to live in the Jean Muir Student Village at the Scottish Borders Campus (not guaranteed) or search for a privately-rented home with support from HWU’s Accommodation Office.
US citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance of arrival. Upon entering the UK with proper documentation, US citizens are granted short-term study clearance by the border officer. All non-US citizens must carefully review UK visa requirements as they may need to apply in advance for a short-term study visa. Supporting documentation will be provided by CSM after admission.
FIT requires all students to be covered in the U.S. and internationally for the duration of their study abroad program. Students are automatically enrolled in the UHC Study Abroad Insurance, which is included in HWU program budget sheet (google doc). This policy is SUNY-mandated, therefore, it cannot be waived.
The UHC Study Abroad Insurance is ACA compliant and students may waive the FIT Haylor Student Health Insurance using the Study Abroad policy.
Heriot-Watt understands all students face challenges and is dedicated to supporting each student during their learning experience. Your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing are important in helping you to make the most out of your time at the University. Staying healthy, both physically and mentally, ensures you can remain focused on your studies, achieve your full potential and enjoy the experience of being a student
To view available services visit the Health and Wellbeing website.