**You don’t generally need a booked ticket out of the UK, but you must be able to show that you intend to leave and can afford the onward journey.** Border officers can ask about this even when you don’t need a visa. [UK visitor requirements](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor)

Your Amsterdam–US booking is useful supporting evidence, though it does not guarantee admission. Carry it along with:

- Your university acceptance letter showing the semester dates.
- Evidence of accommodation and funds for your stay and onward travel.
- A rough plan for leaving the UK after finals and reaching Amsterdam.

Explain that you’ll book the UK–Europe journey once your exam dates are confirmed. The published requirements focus on your intention and ability to leave, rather than requiring a particular flight booking. [UK visitor requirements](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor)

**One important correction for travel under today’s rules:** EU citizenship no longer gives an unrestricted right to study in the UK. A Dutch passport holder can normally study at an accredited institution as a visitor for up to six months, but generally needs an **ETA before travelling**, unless exempt. Longer study normally requires a Student visa. Confirm with your Edinburgh university that your exchange qualifies for the visitor route. [Study as a visitor](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor/visit-to-study), [EU citizen entry rules](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visiting-the-uk-as-an-eu-eea-or-swiss-citizen)