Cardiff University : Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide (QS UK Rank 26)
- durvamorecs
- 2 days ago
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Cardiff University is a leading public research university in the United Kingdom, ranked QS UK Rank 26 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 (around 181 globally) making it the highest-ranked university in Wales.
Located in the capital city of Cardiff, Wales, the university attracts students from across the world with its strong academic reputation, research strengths, and supportive learning environment. It is particularly well regarded for programs in science, engineering, business, social sciences, architecture, and media studies.
For students planning undergraduate (UG) admissions in the UK in 2026, Cardiff University offers a blend of global recognition, varied course options, and a city experience that is more affordable than many UK cities, yet rich in culture and opportunity.
Cardiff University (UG Admissions Overview) :
Point | Details |
University Name | Cardiff University |
QS UK Rank | 26 |
QS World Ranking (2026) | ~181 |
Location | Cardiff, Wales, UK |
Type | Public Research University |
Established | 1883 |
Main UG Intake | September |
Popular UG Degrees | BSc, BA, BEng, LLB |
Teaching Style | Lectures, seminars, labs, projects |
International Tuition (Approx) | ₹18 L – ₹31 L per year |
Living Costs (Approx) | ₹9 L – ₹15 L per year |
English Requirement | IELTS / TOEFL / PTE |
Application Route | UCAS |
Best Known For | Sciences, Engineering, Business, Humanities |
About Cardiff University
Cardiff University is one of the UK’s most respected universities, combining a historic academic tradition with modern research excellence. It has steadily climbed global rankings and was named Welsh University of the Year 2026 by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.
With a strong emphasis on academic quality, Cardiff provides research-led teaching, global connections, and inclusive student support services, making it a compelling choice for international applicants.
Academic Philosophy and Learning Approach
Cardiff University focuses on research-informed undergraduate teaching where students:
Learn from faculty actively involved in global research
Engage in critical thinking and problem solving
Develop practical skills through labs, projects, and case work
Gain exposure to industry and professional standards
Teaching styles usually include lectures for core concepts, seminars for discussion, lab work for sciences, and project work for applied learning.
Popular Undergraduate Subjects and Focus Areas
Sciences and Technology
BSc Biology
BSc Computer Science
BSc Environmental Science
BSc Physics
Science programs emphasize lab work, research exposure, and conceptual depth.
Engineering and Applied Sciences
BEng Mechanical Engineering
BEng Civil Engineering
BEng Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Engineering degrees focus on theoretical foundations and practical design skills.
Business and Economics
BSc Business Management
BSc Economics
BSc Finance & Accounting
These degrees prepare students for global careers in finance, consulting, and management.
Social Sciences and Humanities
BA Psychology
BA English Literature
BA Politics and International Relations
LLB Law
Strong critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills are developed in these programs.
Architecture and Built Environment
BA Architecture
Part of the university’s global subject strengths, including top QS subject rankings (e.g., architecture and media studies).
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
To apply for UG programs at Cardiff:
Completion of Class 12 or equivalent with strong academic performance
Accepted credentials include:
CBSE / ISC / State Boards
IB Diploma
IGCSE + A-Levels or equivalent
Competitive courses may require strong subject grades (e.g., maths for engineering).
English Language Requirements
Most courses ask for proof of English ability:
IELTS: Overall 6.5 or above
TOEFL / PTE are also acceptedExact scores vary by program.
Application Process
Submit application via UCAS
Write a strong personal statement
Provide one academic reference
Some programs may have additional assessments
Tuition Fees for International Students :
Program Area | Annual Fee (GBP) | Approx. INR |
Arts & Humanities | £18,000 – £22,000 | ₹18 L – ₹22 L |
Social Sciences | £19,000 – £23,000 | ₹19 L – ₹23 L |
Business & Economics | £20,000 – £26,000 | ₹20 L – ₹26 L |
Sciences | £22,000 – £28,000 | ₹22 L – ₹28 L |
Engineering | £24,000 – £31,000 | ₹24 L – ₹31 L |
Estimated Cost of Living in Cardiff :
Expense Category | Annual Cost (GBP) | Approx. INR |
Accommodation | £6,000 – £9,000 | ₹6 L – ₹9 L |
Food & Groceries | £2,500 – £3,500 | ₹2.5 L – ₹3.5 L |
Transport & Utilities | £1,500 – £2,500 | ₹1.5 L – ₹2.5 L |
Personal & Study Costs | £1,000 – £1,500 | ₹1 L – ₹1.5 L |
Scholarships and Financial Support
Cardiff offers several funding options for international undergraduates:
Undergraduate International Excellence Scholarships
Available to high-achieving international students
Awards typically range £3,500 – £10,000
Vice-Chancellor’s Undergraduate Scholarships
Merit-based tuition discounts to reward academic excellence
School and Course-Specific Scholarships
Support for engineering, liberal arts, and specialist areas
Awards vary by faculty (e.g., Welsh, engineering scholarships)
Bursaries
Additional bursaries supporting students with financial need
Scholarships can significantly reduce overall study costs but are competitive.
Student Life and Campus Experience
Campus Community
Cardiff University offers:
Large modern libraries and study spaces
Academic support centres
Student clubs and organisations
International student services
The campus blends academic focus with social opportunities and cultural diversity.
City of Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a vibrant, walkable, and student-friendly city. It features:
Rich cultural events and history
Sports and entertainment scenes
Affordable housing options compared to London
Part-time work opportunities (students on UK visas can usually work up to 20 hrs/week)
Many students appreciate Cardiff’s balance of city life and lower living costs.
Careers and Graduate Outcomes
Cardiff University provides extensive career support:
Career planning and guidance from Year 1
Internship and placement assistance
Employer networking events
CV building and interview coaching
Graduates commonly work in:
Technology and engineering firms
Financial and consulting sectors
Research and public policy organisations
Media and communications industries
Strong industry links enhance employability outcomes for international students.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
1. Is Cardiff University good for undergraduate studies?
Yes it is ranked among the top UK universities and is the highest-ranked university in Wales.
2. What grades are needed for admission?
Strong Class 12 scores are required; exact requirements vary by course.
3. Are international scholarships available?
Yes Cardiff offers merit-based scholarships and bursaries.
4. Can Indian students work part-time while studying?
Yes usually up to 20 hours per week on a UK student visa.
5. Is Cardiff expensive compared to other UK cities?
It is generally more affordable than London and many southern UK cities.
6. Does Cardiff support internships during UG?
Yes, many programs provide career support and internship pathways.
Final Takeaway :
The Cardiff University (QS UK Rank 26) is a strong choice for students targeting UG admissions in the UK for 2026. With its research-informed teaching, diverse academic offerings, supportive campus life, international community, and relatively affordable living costs, Cardiff offers compelling value for international students seeking quality undergraduate education.
Cardiff University :
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