Photography competition and exhibition

The annual Edinburgh Global Student Photography Competition is open from 30 October 2024 until 10 February 2025. The inspirational exhibition of photography from the previous competition can be seen around campus.

2024 Student Photography Competition 

The competition is open to all current international students. 

This year it is also open to even more students through two special ‘global’ categories; one for current students who have had an international mobility experience through Study and Work Away, and for current Online Learners who are based all over the world, and one for all students; our student community is made up of diverse people from all over the world, making each one of us a vital part of Edinburgh’s global community. 

About the theme

This year’s theme, Edinburgh in Focus, encourages students to share their unique perspectives of the city and beyond. Whether it’s a stunning view of green spaces, an iconic building, a core memory, a hidden gem, or a cherished moment, each photo should reflect a personal connection with Edinburgh. 

Eligibility 

There are five categories in the competition. 

  • Three categories are open to all current international students.  
  • The fourth category is open to Study and Work Away participants and Online Distance Learners.  
  • For the first time, we have a fifth category which is open to all students to share perspectives of how local meets global. 

Competition categories

Prompt

What makes the city so special? Is a secret place or a classic view? A favourite season, distinctive street, or distinctive building? What makes Edinburgh unique to you? 

Who can enter?

Current international students.


Prompt

What aspects of campus or community make you feel most at home? Which moments, people, or events have been important to you? Where and how do you connect with friends? 

Who can enter?

Current international students.


Prompt

Which green spaces have you explored around the city? Have you visited an area where nature is recovering in Scotland? Have you felt a connection to nature? Which local flora and fauna have you spotted? 

Who can enter?

Current international students.

Category sponsor

In collaboration with: 

The Forest and Peatland Programme and The Wild Campus Programme, within the Department for Social Responsibility & Sustainability.

Find out more about these programmes:

The Forest and Peatland Programme

The Wild Campus Programme


Prompt

Have you had an international study experience in the past year? Or do you study remotely? What does your Edinburgh experience look like from around the world?

Who can enter?

Current students who have been on a Study or Work Away experience. 

Current online learners outside the UK. 

Category sponsor

In collaboration with:

The Study and Work Away Service


Prompt

What makes Edinburgh an international city? How do your everyday experiences connect you to people, cultures, or ideas from around the world? Through your actions, big or small, how are you contributing to positive change?

Who can enter?

All current students.

Category sponsor

In collaboration with: 

Edinburgh Local


Prizes

There are eight prizes available, offered as vouchers. Additional prizes will be announced! 

  • 1st prize - £100 
  • 2nd prize - £75 
  • 5 x Category prizes - £50 
  • Principal’s choice - £50 

The winners will be chosen by independent judges. 

All entrants also have the chance for their photo to be featured in next year’s Photography Competition exhibition and University publications. 

How to enter 

The competition opens at noon on 30 October 2024 

The deadline is at noon on 10 February 2025. Late entries can’t be accepted. 

Please read the terms and conditions before entering. 

Document
Document

 

You will be asked for your valid student number in the entry form to check eligibility. 

Enter your details and submit your photo online: 

Gallery of 2023 winners

About the exhibition 

The Photography Competition Exhibition is across the University campus until February 2024. The outdoor exhibits show a range of photos from last year’s competition.  

Look out for the photos at following locations: 

  • Bayes Centre 
  • Health and Wellbeing Centre 
  • Levels Café 
  • The Nucleus Building 
  • Roslin Institute 
  • Business School 
  • Kenneth and Noreen Murray Library 

View the map of locations

Follow us 

Follow online to see the latest entries and updates about the competition and exhibition. 

Follow on Instagram for more global community themed content: 

Visit the University of Edinburgh's global Instagram account