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A Russell Group university

Study in Wales at Cardiff University

Discover world-class education at one of the UK's leading Russell Group universities

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Why Choose Cardiff University International Study Centre?

Live and learn in Cardiff, a vibrant capital city and home to a world-renowned Russell Group university.

#179

university worldwide

QS World University Rankings 2027

22nd

 in the UK

Complete University Guide 2026

12th

best UK university for employability

THE Global Employability Ranking 2023

2nd

best Students' Union in the UK

WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025

What's new

Shape the future in computer science and cyber security

Your direct route to year 2 with an International Year One in Computer Science and Cyber Security.

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Need help with your English?

Strengthen your academic English with tailored support that helps you feel ready for university study. 

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Explore our University pathway courses

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International Year One

Get the academic, language and career support you need to start your degree with confidence and progress to year two of your undergraduate degree at Cardiff University. This one-year programme helps you adjust to studying in the UK while building valuable skills for your future.

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International Foundation Year

The International Foundation Year is a route to an undergraduate degree at Cardiff University. Choose from a number of subject routes and prepare to make a confident start to your degree.

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Pre-Master's programme

Our Pre-Master's programme helps you get ready for postgraduate study at Cardiff University, with a combination of English language tuition and subject content.

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Accelerated International Foundation

Our Accelerated International Foundation is an intensive, 22-week course designed to help you progress to the undergraduate degree of your choice at Cardiff. Choose a subject-specific route and gain the academic and English skills to thrive on your degree.

Jerono from Kenya

The International Study Centre helped me to bridge studying from Kenya to studying in the UK. It gave me a better understanding of architecture before actually starting the course.

Jerono from Kenya
Studied International Foundation Year
Progressed to BSc/MArch Architecture

Karina from Hong Kong

The International Study Centre has definitely given me what I need. It also has given me that support that I want coming into university.

Karina from Hong Kong
Studied International Year One in Law
Progressed to LLB Law

Frequently asked questions

Cardiff University International Study Centre is the smartest choice for students who want to feel prepared and confident before starting their degree. You'll develop your academic knowledge, English language skills and study techniques with dedicated support throughout your pathway programme.

Pathway programmes help you develop the subject knowledge, academic skills and English language ability needed for university study. You'll also become familiar with studying in the UK, helping you make a confident start to your degree.

Cardiff is a friendly and lively student city with a welcoming international community. You'll find plenty of opportunities to meet new people, enjoy sport and culture, and explore the city alongside your studies.

Cardiff offers a lower cost of living than many other major UK cities, making it an attractive choice for international students. You'll enjoy the benefits of a capital city while keeping everyday living costs more manageable.

Join us today

We're here to support you throughout the application process. Use our online application form and our student enrolment advisors will be available to answer your questions.