Cardiff University is a prestigious public research university in Cardiff, Wales, and a member of the Russell Group. It offers a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes across sciences, engineering, medicine, health, law, business, social sciences, and the arts. Cardiff is known for its research excellence, international outlook, campus environment, and strong links with employers, NHS, and industry.
The main campus is located in central Cardiff, close to the civic centre, city centre amenities, and transport links (Cardiff Central railway station, M4 motorway, Cardiff Airport). The university features historic and modern teaching buildings, libraries, research centres, student accommodation, and sports facilities. The setting supports vibrant student life, strong employer engagement, and access to Wales’ cultural, economic, and government resources.
Cardiff is internationally recognised for research and teaching in medicine and health, engineering, science, business (Cardiff Business School), law, social sciences, journalism, architecture, and the arts. The university excels in interdisciplinary research, innovation, and global partnerships, with major strengths in biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, engineering, and policy.
Cardiff provides comprehensive student support: personal tutors and academic advisers; Careers and Employability Service with placements, internships, employer events, and CV/interview coaching; wellbeing, mental health, and counselling services; disability and inclusive learning support (assessments and adjustments); study skills workshops; international student support (visa and immigration advice, orientation, and pastoral care); financial advice, scholarships, and hardship funds; and accommodation guidance for on- and off-campus housing. Specialist support is available for placement, clinical, and research students.
– Undergraduate (typical): UK A-levels, Welsh Baccalaureate, BTEC, IB or international equivalents. Most courses require AAB–AAA at A-level (higher for medicine, dentistry, law, and other competitive subjects); some require specific subjects, admissions tests (e.g. UCAT, LNAT), portfolios, or interviews.
– Foundation and pathway routes: Foundation years and international pathway programmes are available for applicants needing academic or language preparation.
– Mature and alternative entry: Consideration is given to mature students and those with recognised prior learning or substantial professional experience.
– Postgraduate taught (typical): A UK upper-second class (2:1) honours degree or international equivalent is commonly required; some master’s accept a 2:2 with relevant experience or a strong application.
– Postgraduate research (MPhil/PhD): Admission normally requires a relevant master’s degree or strong honours degree, a research proposal, and a supervisor match; funding and supervisor availability influence offers.
– English language: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via approved tests (typical thresholds often IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall depending on programme; some courses require higher scores or specific component minimums).
– Other requirements: Certain programmes require DBS/health checks (health/education), portfolios (creative subjects), admissions tests, interviews, or work experience. Check individual course pages for precise criteria.
