Cardiff University

Cardiff University offers comprehensive support services tailored specifically for international students. The university's International Development Department provides an induction programme to help students settle into their new environment smoothly. This includes a coach collection service from both Cardiff and Heathrow airports, ensuring students efficiently arrive at their university accommodation.

The induction programme spans five days and includes the following:

• A series of events that introduce students to the university.
• Getting acquainted with the city of Cardiff.
• Getting acquainted with the scenic beauty of the surrounding Welsh countryside.

Activities, such as the tour of South Wales, provide students with an excellent opportunity to meet new people and experience local culture in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Cardiff University also boasts a variety of international student societies, catering to a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. Whether you are from Asia, Africa, or Europe, organisations such as the Asian, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Nigerian, Pakistani, and Thai societies ensure you have a community of support throughout your time at Cardiff.

Cardiff University consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and is known globally for its outstanding research and academic excellence. In 2024, it was placed 25th in the Times University Guide and 29th in the Guardian University Guide, cementing its position as one of the leading higher education institutions in the UK.

On a global scale, Cardiff ranks 186th in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and falls within the 151-200th bracket in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023, showcasing its worldwide recognition for academic prowess. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 places Cardiff 190th globally, further highlighting its competitive standing.

Cardiff's research output is one of its most notable achievements, with 90% of its research being confirmed as world-leading or internationally excellent by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. These accolades make Cardiff University a prestigious destination for students seeking top-tier education and research opportunities.

Student life at Cardiff University is vibrant, diverse, and full of personal and professional growth opportunities. As a student in the capital city of Wales, you will be living in one of the UK's most affordable, friendly, and lively cities. Cardiff is known for its mix of history, culture, and entertainment, offering something for everyone.

With over 200 student societies and 60 sports clubs, students can find activities that suit their interests, from academic societies to cultural clubs, performing arts, and various sports. Cardiff University Students' Union (CUSU) is among the best in the UK. It plays a central role in student life, organising events, offering support, and creating opportunities for students to get involved in social and extracurricular activities.

The university also hosts a variety of social events throughout the academic year, including balls, charity events, and performances, giving students a chance to connect, unwind, and create lifelong memories.

The city offers everything from shopping, entertainment, and nightlife to green spaces, including the iconic Bute Park, which sits right in the city centre. The Cardiff Bay area is a vibrant waterfront location famous for dining, socialising, and cultural events.

Cardiff University's location, supportive community, and endless opportunities make for an unforgettable student experience.

Cardiff University offers a wide range of accommodation options to ensure that students feel at home from day one. With over 5,100 student rooms, the university guarantees a place for all first-year international undergraduate students who enter through the regular admissions cycle.

The majority of residences consist of single en-suite study bedrooms in self-catered flats, providing privacy and comfort. Additionally, there are various living styles and locations to choose from, whether students prefer to live close to campus or in vibrant city areas.

Talybont, one of the leading accommodation sites, offers access to a state-of-the-art sports training village and fitness complex for those interested in sports. This impressive facility even hosted athletes during the London 2012 Olympics.

Cardiff's diverse accommodation options balance academic and social life, ensuring students enjoy their university experience to the fullest.