Situated north of England, and governed by the United Kingdom, Scotland is a country rich with history and culture. Until the unification with Great Britain in 1707, Scotland was the scene of continuous battles. From conflicts between the Viking-descended clans of the Highlands, to skirmishes with Catholics and Protestants, to warfare with the English, Scotland was a country in which violence was a frequent occurrence. Nowadays, however, visitors to Scotland can safely tour the magnificent castles that were once used for defense. From Threave Castle in Southern Scotland to Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye, these beautiful structures display fascinating architecture and project deeply felt history.

Scottish culture can be experienced through a variety of opportunities. Edinburgh presents numerous museums and restored town houses, while Glasgow offers the Burrell collection of items such as medieval furniture and impressionist paintings. Aberdeen, an oil-town made of granite, and the Inner Hebrides with the Kildaton Cross, breath-taking mountain scenery and bird sanctuaries, add exciting non-urban attractions. Scottish cuisine reveals a plethora of specialties including world-renowned game dishes, porridge, shortbread and of course, whiskey. Ceilidhs, social gatherings held at the end of a work day, allow Scots and visitors alike to hear folk stories, dance and listen to Scottish music with the famous Highland bagpipes.

Education is highly regarded in Scotland, with free and compulsory education for all those below the age of 16. Each school year runs from mid-August until late June. Higher education in Scotland is strongly encouraged. There are currently 22 higher education institutions throughout Scotland, most of which are funded by the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council.

Whether you visit Scotland as a student or vacationer, you will surely be impressed by the Scottish customs and will forge unforgettable memories in this remarkably unique country.

Education is highly regarded in Scotland, with free and compulsory education for all those below the age of sixteen. Each school year runs from mid-August until late June. Higher education in Scotland is strongly encouraged. There are currently 22 higher education institutions throughout Scotland, most of which are funded by the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council.

Whether you visit Scotland as a student or vacationer, you will surely be impressed by the Scottish customs and create unforgettable memories in this remarkably unique country.

ONLINE RESOURCES
IIEPassport.org: http://www.IIEPassport.org
CIA World Factbook: https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html
Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Eurydice: http://www.eurydice.org/
On StudyAbroad.com: Scotland.StudyAbroad.com

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