Cardiff University : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | Top Universities
Ranking

# 186QS World University Rankings

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358Undergrad. & Postgrad. Programmes

International

26 % International students

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About Cardiff University

Cardiff University is an ambitious and innovative university with a bold and strategic vision located in a beautiful and thriving capital city.

As a member of the Russell Group, Cardiff is one of Britain's top 24 leading research universities and we are proud of our long-standing reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and high student satisfaction.  90% of Cardiff University's research has been confirmed as world-leading or internationally excellent by the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

The University’s Portland-stone buildings are centrally located amidst parks and tree-lined avenues in the city's civic centre. Students and staff are drawn from throughout the world, attracted by its international reputation and commitment to excellence. Founded in 1883, Cardiff University combines impressive modern facilities and a dynamic approach to teaching and research.

Through this blend of established tradition and cutting-edge innovation, Cardiff University offers a stimulating environment for study and research. The University's expertise in research-led teaching encompasses the humanities; the natural, physical, health, life and social sciences; engineering and technology and lifelong learning.

According to the latest QS World University Rankings, Cardiff is ranked in the top 50 for Communication and Media Studies and Dentistry, ranked in the top 100 for Architecture/Built Environment, English Language & Literature, Psychology, Nursing, Geography and Pharmacy & Pharmacology.

Cardiff University’s outstanding research community features 2 Nobel Prize winners, 17 Fellows of the Royal Society, 10 Fellows of the Royal Academy of Engineering, 7 Fellows of the British Academy, and 21 Fellows of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

The University’s global community, reputation, and partnerships are at the heart of its identity. With over 6,395 international students from 138 countries and agreements with more than 300 institutions around the world, international partnerships are an integral part of the University's work. Driven by creativity and curiosity, Cardiff University strives to fulfil its social, cultural and economic obligations to Cardiff, Wales, and the world.

About Cardiff University

Cardiff University is an ambitious and innovative university with a bold and strategic vision located in a beautiful and thriving capital city.

As a member of the Russell Group, Cardiff is one of Britain's top 24 leading research universities and we are proud of our long-standing reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and high student satisfaction.  90% of Cardiff University's research has been confirmed as world-leading or internationally excellent by the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

The University’s Portland-stone buildings are centrally located amidst parks and tree-lined avenues in the city's civic centre. Students and staff are drawn from throughout the world, attracted by its international reputation and commitment to excellence. Founded in 1883, Cardiff University combines impressive modern facilities and a dynamic approach to teaching and research.

Through this blend of established tradition and cutting-edge innovation, Cardiff University offers a stimulating environment for study and research. The University's expertise in research-led teaching encompasses the humanities; the natural, physical, health, life and social sciences; engineering and technology and lifelong learning.

According to the latest QS World University Rankings, Cardiff is ranked in the top 50 for Communication and Media Studies and Dentistry, ranked in the top 100 for Architecture/Built Environment, English Language & Literature, Psychology, Nursing, Geography and Pharmacy & Pharmacology.

Cardiff University’s outstanding research community features 2 Nobel Prize winners, 17 Fellows of the Royal Society, 10 Fellows of the Royal Academy of Engineering, 7 Fellows of the British Academy, and 21 Fellows of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

The University’s global community, reputation, and partnerships are at the heart of its identity. With over 6,395 international students from 138 countries and agreements with more than 300 institutions around the world, international partnerships are an integral part of the University's work. Driven by creativity and curiosity, Cardiff University strives to fulfil its social, cultural and economic obligations to Cardiff, Wales, and the world.

Available programmes

University information

With over 300 undergraduate courses and postgraduate programmes to choose from, join us and benefit from our excellent facilities, a great student experience and as a graduate, be in demand by leading employers. 

We consider a range of international qualifications and entry requirements will vary based on the programme.
Most undergraduate courses require equivalent grades of A-level AAA-ABB or 30-36 points at International Baccalaureate.  For our postgraduate programmes we typically require a good undergraduate qualification in a relevant field of study. 
Please see our website for qualification and grade equivalencies in your country. 
All UK undergraduate applications are submitted through the UK's centralised admission services, UCAS. You can do this online at ucas.com All postgraduate programme applications are submitted directly to Cardiff University. You can do this online via our website

General

2.8+
590+
23+
1200+
85+
32+
176+
62+
90+
6.5+

Cardiff University is made up of two large, well-located campuses.

  • Cathays Park: with wide tree-lined avenues and elegant Portland stone buildings, it's an inspiring place to study.
  • Heath Park: our dedicated healthcare campus, with four Academic Schools on the same site as the University Hospital of Wales.

Both campuses are within a short distance of Cardiff city centre where you’ll find beautiful green spaces, modern shopping centres, historic indoor markets and our very own medieval castle.

We have more than 2,500 study spaces across our 10 libraries and 25 IT suites. In recent years, substantial investment has been made in the University estate to increase available facilities for students and staff. In 2016, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh opened our new £44m Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) on the Innovation campus and the University's new £50m Centre for Student Life opened in October 2021, an iconic student building at the heart of the campus.

We provide our students with the opportunity to participate in both elite and recreational sports, across four main centres on campus. There are over 60 clubs for men and women to get involved in, ranging from traditional sports (such as rugby and cricket) to martial arts, motorsports and watersports. We also run a High Performance Programme that provides support for student-athletes, recognised as having outstanding potential.

Sport is a big part of the culture of Cardiff and going to see an event or match is a quintessential part of studying here. From world-famous sporting arenas like the Principality Stadium to Sophia Gardens and the international sports village in Cardiff Bay, there’s so many great venues offering a variety of sports at the heart of the Welsh capital. 

Whether you like watching rugby, football, ice hockey, cricket or more unusual sporting events, like monster trucks and speedways, Cardiff has plenty to offer you.

29,755
74%
26%
7,800
45%
55%
3,030
68%
32%

Student life

Cardiff offers an outstanding environment for students, combining an affordable, friendly atmosphere with the opportunities of a vibrant capital city. As 11th biggest city in the UK and one of the most cost-effective university cities, it provides a high quality of life with modern shopping centres, historic arcades, 330 parks and green spaces, and a thriving food and nightlife scene.

The city regularly hosts world-class events, from international rugby at the Principality Stadium to concerts by global artists. With theatres, a lively music scene, and free museums, students can enjoy a rich cultural experience. Cardiff’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate, with most university buildings within walking distance of the city centre.

Cardiff hosts numerous high-profile events, including the UEFA Champions League Final, the IAAF World Half Marathon, and concerts from stars such as Beyoncé, Harry Styles, and Coldplay. As the capital city of Wales, Cardiff is home to many of the UK’s national institutions including the National Museum of Wales and the commanding Principality Stadium. You can also find stunning national parks and beautiful beaches just 30 minutes from Cardiff.

Cardiff University Students’ Union, consistently ranked 2nd the best in the UK according to WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2024, offers over 230 societies, 70+ sports clubs, and a range of entertainment, including live music, comedy, and cultural events. The SU also provides essential welfare services, ensuring students have access to guidance and support.

Cardiff is well connected, with efficient and affordable public transport, and direct train links to London in around two hours. Cardiff International Airport offers flights to key UK and international destinations. Part-time job opportunities are available on campus and throughout the city, with roles in administration, retail, hospitality, and research, helping students gain valuable experience alongside their studies.

With its combination of academic excellence, cultural richness, and affordability, Cardiff provides an ideal setting for university life. Whether exploring its historic sites, enjoying its diverse entertainment options, or making the most of the university’s extensive support services, students benefit from an exciting and well-rounded university experience in a welcoming and dynamic city.

Cardiff University graduates are amongst the most sought-after in the UK. 86% of Cardiff University’s graduates were working in the UK in highly skilled employment, 15 months after their course ended. The University remains first in Wales for this measure and is placed in the top 20 providers in the sector. 

We also have dedicated student support services who can help you map out your future plans. Our Student Futures team provides opportunities to boost your employability and can support you as you plan for life after university. 

Tuition fees

Overall Tuition Fees
Domestic
9,000 GBP
International
19,700 GBP

We offer a range of prestigious scholarships for international students, worth over £2M at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships awards between £3,500 to £10,000 tuition fee discount to international students across a variety of postgraduate taught programmes..

The Undergraduate Excellence Scholarships offer several half-fee scholarships to undergraduate international students who can demonstrate their academic potential.  

Visit our website to learn more about our international scholarships.

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

Rankings & Ratings

Cardiff University is one of the top public universities in Cardiff, United Kingdom. It is ranked #186 in QS World University Rankings 2025.

QS World University Rankings

  • 2012
    #143
  • 2014
    #=136
  • 2015
    #=123
  • 2016
    #122
  • 2017
    #140
  • 2018
    #=137
  • 2019
    #145
  • 2020
    #154
  • 2021
    #159
  • 2022
    #=151
  • 2023
    #166
  • 2024
    #=154
  • 2025
    #186

QS World University Rankings

  • 2012
    #143
  • 2014
    #=136
  • 2015
    #=123
  • 2016
    #122
  • 2017
    #140
  • 2018
    #=137
  • 2019
    #145
  • 2020
    #154
  • 2021
    #159
  • 2022
    #=151
  • 2023
    #166
  • 2024
    #=154
  • 2025
    #186

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Frequently Asked Questions

Details of the funding that Cardiff University is aware of are available on international scholarship page.

You may also wish to contact your local educational advisor or British Council  for advice.   

Relevant information on application process, requirements, deadlines and advice on the next steps for undergraduate studies can be found in our detailed application guide.

Cardiff University has a wide range of courses on offer at Postgraduate level. After researching our postgraduate taught programmes, course structure, career opportunities and tuition fees, you can follow our step-by-step guide application guide.  

 

More information on our postgraduate research courses and ways to apply can be found on postgraduate research page..

 

You can also visit our  Academic School pages  for information about the facilities, courses and the most up to date news.
 

You may also require an English language qualification to study with us and we accept a variety of  English language qualifications . Please, be aware that for Clinical Postgraduate programmes in the School of Dentistry, and Postgraduate vocational programmes in the Law School, we can only consider IELTS.

 

We also offer a range of  English Language  courses for students looking to improve their English language level before starting their academic programme.

You can get in touch with student ambassadors though our live chat. You can also apply filters like levels and area of study if you have questions about a particular course, and set the origin of the student if you would like to speak to someone in your own language. 

There are a number of ways you can contact us and keep up-to-date with our international activities.

 

If you have a specific question or feedback, you can complete our online form or contact us via email. Please provide as much information as possible to help us with your enquiry.

 

If you have a question or would like to keep up-to-date with the latest news and events through our social media channels, you can:

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