The College of Winterhold is Skyrim’s school and guild of mages, based in the towers of the College of Winterhold on its island off Winterhold. In a province that mostly distrusts magic, it is one of the few places where mages can study in peace – more or less.
How to join
At the bridge, Faralda asks you to prove your magical ability by casting a spell she names. She can teach you the spell first if you do not know it. Persuasion also works. Once inside, you are an Apprentice.
Who runs it
The Arch-Mage is Savos Aren. Teachers include the kindly old Tolfdir, and the gruff Orc librarian Urag gro-Shub runs the Arcanaeum. A Thalmor advisor, Ancano, is also present – and his interest in the College is not purely academic.
Fellow apprentices
You start alongside J’zargo, Brelyna Maryon and Onmund – all three can become your followers.
The questline
The College’s story begins with a lesson in the ruins of Saarthal (“First Lessons”), where a mysterious artifact is discovered. That find leads to Ancano, the Psijic Order and the powerful Eye of Magnus.
Good to know
Finishing the questline makes you Arch-Mage, with private quarters at the top of the main tower.
Rewards & benefits
The title of Arch-Mage and the Arch-Mage's Quarters, powerful staffs and robes, spell tutors and three apprentice followers.
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