Quick Summary
Based in Cardiff, United Kingdom, Cardiff University is a public research university with roots dating back to 1883. Ranked #186 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 33260 students including 26% from outside United Kingdom. Known for strengths in Architecture, Communications and Media Studies, Psychology, it maintains an acceptance rate of 19%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Member of the elite Russell Group, located in one of the UK's most affordable and vibrant capital cities, with a reputation for research excellence and high student satisfaction.
Subject Strengths
ArchitectureCommunications and Media StudiesPsychologyDentistryPharmacy & PharmacologyNursingGeography
Founded1883
TypePublic Research University
Total Students33260
Intl Students26%
Faculty Ratio13.5
CampusUrban
Campus SizeNot Available
Affiliated HospitalsUniversity Hospital of Wales, Velindre Cancer Centre
AccreditationRoyal Charter, AACSB, AMBA, RIBA, BCS, BPS
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#186
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#190
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#151
Academic Ranking
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Academics & Research
What you can study
Over 300 undergraduate and 200 postgraduate programs across 24 academic schools.
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), Medicines Discovery Institute, Sustainable Places Research Institute
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Royal Charter, AACSB, AMBA, RIBA, BCS, BPS
Accreditation
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Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate19%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL90
Min GPA3
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 31 (UCAS for Undergrad), Varies (Postgrad)
SPRINGApplication Deadline · Varies by course
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on a strong Personal Statement that demonstrates a deep interest in the subject. For competitive courses like Medicine or Journalism, relevant work experience is highly valued.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Pound Sterling
UG Tuition
£19,500/yr
per year · GBP
Living Cost
£10,500/yr
per year · GBP
PG Tuition
£21,000/yr
per year · GBP
Application Fee
$35
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
£30,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · GBP
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$3,000
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Over 300 undergraduate and 200 postgraduate programs across 24 academic schools. programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Journalism | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Business | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Architecture | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Biosciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Civil Engineering | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Law | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$42,000
Average Salary After Graduation
95%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with major UK employers and placement years available for most courses.
Industry Connections
BBCAirbusDeloitteGSKNHSPwC
Notable Alumni
Sir Martin Evans (Nobel Prize winner), Huw Edwards (Journalist), Neil Kinnock (Politician), Glynne Bowsher (Engineer)
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Talybont Sports Village, Fitness Suites, Sports Fields, Indoor Cricket Nets
Student Clubs
Over 200 student societies and 60+ sports clubs
Library Resources
11 libraries including the Main Library and the specialized Bute Library and Health Library
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available