Making an application

The application process is different from the normal application to study in the United Kingdom, you do not apply through UCAS.

To apply for our 2+2 programme, please:

• send us a request at bto.recruitment@ed.ac.uk for the online application form and a link to upload the required documentation listed below.
• The closing date for receiving applications for entry in September 2025 is 31st March 2025.
• You should also inform your International Office that you would like to apply.

As well as completing the application form, you need to send electronic copies of the items listed below. You should speak to the advisers in your School and/or International Office who will be able to help you. 

• Personal statement*
• Official University transcripts (in Chinese)
• Official University transcripts (in English)
• List of courses currently being studied (if not on your University transcript)
• Copy of the photo page of your passport (with expiry date of 31st September 2025 or later)
• IELTS/TOEFL certificate (achieved after 31 August 2023) - you need to pass an IELTS test with a total score of at least 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each section or TOEFL iBT at 92 or above with 20 in each section. 

*The personal statement should be written in English and should be no longer than 300 words. You should explain why you want to study your chosen Biological Sciences degree programme at the University of Edinburgh; and you can also include your current knowledge of the subject, any relevant skills or experience and any personal qualities (interests or other skills) that you can demonstrate.

If you can't provide your English language certificate by 31st March 2025, but still wish to apply for this programme, then email bto.recruitment@ed.ac.uk. You may still be selected for interview and can send evidence of your English language qualification at a later date.

Once you have sent in all the required documents we will contact you to tell you if you have been successfully selected for an interview. If selected, interviews will be conducted in-person or online and will take place some time in April or May. The interview will be in English, and will test your Biological Sciences knowledge, as well as your language ability. It will be useful to practice speaking about biology in English and reading English-language textbooks to familiarise yourself with scientific English and the subject’s vocabulary.