Cardiff, the capital of Wales, stands out as a vibrant and compelling choice for international students seeking higher education to study in the UK.
Known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving arts scene, and top-tier universities, Cardiff offers a balanced mix of academic excellence and a dynamic student life.
The city provides a welcoming atmosphere, affordable living costs compared to other UK cities, and an engaging community.
Key Highlights:
| Feature | Details |
| No. of Universities in Cardiff | 3 recognised universities |
| Approximate Annual Study Cost | INR 14,00,000 - INR 28,00,000 (GBP 14,000 - GBP 28,000) |
| Approximate Monthly Cost of Living | INR 80,000 - INR 1,20,000 (GBP 800 - GBP 1,200) |
| Minimum IELTS Score | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Minimum TOEFL Score | 78 - 100 |
| Top 3 Universities |
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| Top 3 Study Fields |
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| Salary Range | INR 22,00,000 - INR 40,00,000 (GBP 22,000 - GBP 40,000) per year |
Why Study in Cardiff?
Cardiff is an exceptional student destination due to its esteemed universities, affordable living costs, and vibrant cultural scene.
Cardiff's inclusive and diverse environment and strong industry connections make it a desirable option for students seeking internships and post-graduation employment.
Here are some reasons to consider studying in Cardiff:
- Renowned Universities: Cardiff University is highly ranked and known for its research output and academic standards.
- Affordable Living Costs: Cardiff’s living costs are lower than those of cities like London, making it more budget-friendly.
- Rich Cultural Scene: With various museums, theatres, and festivals, Cardiff offers a culturally enriching experience.
- Strong Industry Connections: Universities in Cardiff have robust links with industries, enhancing job prospects for graduates.
- Welcoming Community: The city has a diverse international student population, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
What are the Top Universities in Cardiff?
Cardiff’s educational institutions are recognised for their academic excellence and research contributions. They offer a variety of programs and have a strong reputation in the academic community.
Here are the top universities in Cardiff:
| Name of University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Approximate Annual Tuition Fee |
| Cardiff University | 186 | INR 20,00,000 - INR 28,00,000 (GBP 20,000 - GBP 28,000) |
| Cardiff Metropolitan University | Not Ranked | INR 14,00,000 - INR 20,00,000 (GBP 14,000 - GBP 20,000) |
| University of South Wales | Not Ranked | INR 15,00,000 - INR 22,00,000 (GBP 15,000 - GBP 22,000) |
Note: The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the course and currency exchange rates.
What are the Top Courses in Cardiff?
Cardiff offers a variety of top courses that align with the city’s academic strengths and industry needs. These programs are recognised for their quality and relevance in the job market.
Here are some top courses available in Cardiff:
| Name of Course | Related University/Institution | Duration |
| BSc in Economics | Cardiff University | 3 years |
| BSc in Accounting and Finance | Cardiff University | 3 years |
| BSc in Psychology | Cardiff Metropolitan University | 3 years |
| LLM | University of South Wales | 1 year |
| MSc in Management | University of South Wales | 1 year |
What are the Admission Requirements in Cardiff?
Applying to universities in Cardiff involves meeting specific academic and language proficiency requirements.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:
General Requirements:
- Academic Transcripts: Applicants must provide official transcripts from previous educational institutions showing grades and coursework.
- Letters of Recommendation: 2 - 3 letters from academic or professional references are typically required.
- Statement of Purpose: A written statement outlining your goals, motivations, and why you want to study in Brighton.
- Language Proficiency Scores: Proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS (usually a minimum score of 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum score of 90).
Documents Required:
- GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the program.
- Essays or Personal Statements: Some programs may ask for additional essays or personal statements.
- Portfolio: For creative programs, a portfolio of work may be necessary.
- Passport Copy: A valid passport copy is required to process your application.
Visa Requirements:
- Necessary Documentation: To apply for a student visa, you need an acceptance letter from the university, proof of financial means, and possibly a TB test, depending on your country of origin.
- Application Timeline: Start the visa application process as soon as you receive your acceptance letter, ideally 3-4 months before the program begins.
- Visa Interview Process: Some applicants may need to attend a visa interview at the nearest British consulate.
Work Permit:
- Eligibility Criteria: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Graduates may apply for the Graduate Route to stay and work in the UK for up to two years.
- Application Process: Apply for the Graduate Route visa before your student visa expires.
- Duration and Limitations: The Graduate Route allows up to two years of work; specific job roles and sectors may have different requirements.
What is the Cost of Studying in Cardiff?
Studying in Cardiff involves tuition fees that vary by program level and additional costs for books and supplies.
Here’s an overview of approximate costs:
| Program Level | Range of Annual Fees |
| Undergraduate Programs | INR 14,00,000 - INR 28,00,000 (GBP 14,000 - GBP 28,000) |
| Postgraduate Programs | INR 17,00,000 - INR 32,00,000 (GBP 17,000 - GBP 32,000) |
| Doctoral Programs | INR 15,00,000 - INR 28,00,000 (GBP 15,000 - GBP 28,000) |
Note: The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the course and currency exchange rates.
What is the Cost of Living in Cardiff?
Cardiff is relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities.
Here’s an estimate of monthly living expenses for international students:
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost |
| Food | INR 18,000 - INR 25,000 (GBP 180 - GBP 250) |
| Rent | INR 50,000 - INR 90,000 (GBP 500 - GBP 900) |
| Transport | INR 6,000 - INR 10,000 (GBP 60 - GBP 100) |
| Other Expenses | INR 12,000 - INR 20,000 (GBP 120 - GBP 200) |
| Total Monthly Cost | INR 80,000 - INR 1,20,000 (GBP 800 - GBP 1,200) |
Note: The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the course and currency exchange rates.
What are the Top Jobs in Cardiff?
Cardiff’s job market offers solid opportunities for international graduates, particularly in the engineering, business, and media sectors.
Here’s an overview of job sectors and their average salaries:
| Job Sector | Average Annual Salary (INR) | Average Annual Salary (GBP) |
| Creative Industries | INR 48,00,000 | GBP 43,000 |
| Information Technology (IT) | INR 62,00,000 | GBP 52,000 |
| Education and Research | INR 53,00,000 | GBP 45,000 |
| Healthcare | INR 58,00,000 | GBP 50,000 |
| Finance and Accounting | INR 60,00,000 | GBP 51,000 |
Note: Salaries are approximate and may vary with currency exchange rates.
What are the Top Recruiters in Cardiff?
Cardiff’s job market is supported by solid sectors in finance, IT, healthcare, and creative industries, making it an attractive destination for graduates.
Here are the top recruiters in Cardiff:
- Admiral Group
- BT Group
- Cardiff University
- University Hospital of Wales
- BBC Cymru Wales
