Ph.D Engineering from Cardiff University [CARDIFF UNI], Cardiff - Fees & Admission Details 2026
Cardiff University is one of the prestigious members of the Russell Group, offering strong academic quality and global recognition. The university provides a wide range of programs for international students across multiple disciplines, making it a popular choice for students worldwide. Some of the most popular courses among Indian students include MS Data Science and Analytics, Master of Laws, and Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS).
The university follows a course-specific fee structure, where each program has a fixed tuition fee depending on the department. As per university data, the average tuition fees for the 2026 academic year are:
- Around £24,700 - 30,700 (₹31.28 - 38.88 lakhs) per year for undergraduate programs
- Around £32,450 - 34,700 (₹41.09 - 43.94 lakhs) for postgraduate programs, depending on the course
The university is located in Cardiff, Wales, a major student city in the UK known for its modern infrastructure, seaside location, and vibrant cultural environment. The city is also popular for its relatively lower cost of living, as the university estimates that international students can expect to spend around £1,216 - 1,250 (₹1.54 - 1.58 lakhs) per month on average. However, the overall cost of living may vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
The university also offers various merit-based scholarships, which may be automatically considered during the application process or may require a separate application. These scholarships typically range from £3,500 - 10,000 (₹4.43 - 12.66 lakhs) depending on the course and student profile.
Note: £ 1 = INR 126.63 is the exchange rate used for all currency conversions in this article as of 15th April 2026.
Cardiff University Popular Courses and Fees 2026
Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple disciplines. The university is particularly popular among Indian students for courses in Law, Data Science, Business, Medicine, and Media. Since the university follows a course-specific fee structure, the tuition fees vary depending on the program and level of study.
| Courses | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee in £ (GBP) | Annual Tuition Fee in ₹ (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS Data Science and Analytics | 1 Years | £ 32,450 | ₹ 41.09 Lakhs |
| Master of Laws | 1 Years | £ 24,700 | ₹ 31.28 Lakhs |
| Master of Business Administration | 1 Years | £ 34,700 | ₹ 43.94 Lakhs |
| MSc Advanced Computer Science | 1 Years | £ 33,200 | ₹ 42.04 Lakhs |
| MSc Artificial Intelligence | 1 Years | £ 33,200 | ₹ 42.04 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Laws | 3 Years | £ 24,700 | ₹ 31.28 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) | 5 Years | £ 47,450 | ₹ 60.09 Lakhs |
| BSc Architecture Studies | 3 Years | £ 30,700 | ₹ 38.88 Lakhs |
| BA Media and Communications | 3 Years | £ 24,700 | ₹ 31.28 Lakhs |
| BS Psychology | 3 Years | £ 30,700 | ₹ 38.88 Lakhs |
Note: To accept the offer and confirm their seat, students must pay a tuition deposit of £2,500 (₹3.16 lakhs). This amount will be adjusted against the total tuition fee at a later stage.
Cardiff University Payment Methods
Cardiff University provides multiple secure and convenient payment options for international students to pay their tuition fees. Students can choose from various methods depending on their preference and location. The main payment methods accepted by the university include:
- Online payment portal (Flywire / Convera): Allows international students to pay in their local currency with competitive exchange rates.
- Bank transfer: Direct transfer to the university’s bank account.
- Debit or Credit Card: Payments can be made online using major cards.
- Sponsored payments: For students funded by government bodies or organisations.
- Instalment plans: Tuition fees can be paid in agreed instalments rather than a lump sum.
Students are advised to ensure that all payments are made before the specified deadlines to avoid any late fees or issues with enrolment. Using the official payment platforms also helps in tracking transactions securely and efficiently.
Students can go through this YouTube video, which briefly explains how to pay tuition fees via Flywire.
Cardiff University Accommodations
Cardiff University offers a variety of accommodation options for international students, catering to different budgets and preferences. The university provides over 17 student residences and guarantees accommodation for first-year undergraduate and international postgraduate students (September intake) if they apply on time.
The university provides a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to premium choices, allowing students to select based on their preferences and budget. The cost of accommodation depends on the type of room and facilities selected.
| Level | Accommodation Type | Annual Price in £ (£ ) | Annual Price in ₹(INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Shared Bathroom | £ 5,272.40 - 7,467.60 | ₹ 6.68 - 9.46 Lakhs |
| Studio | £ 5,745.60 - 7,644.00 | ₹ 7.28 - 9.68 Lakhs | |
| En-suite | £ 6,694.80 - 7,641.20 | ₹ 8.48 - 9.68 Lakhs | |
| Postgraduate | Shared Bathroom | £ 5,745.60 - 7,467.60 | ₹ 7.28 - 9.46 Lakhs |
| Studio | £ 7,467.60 - 11,645.45 | ₹ 9.46 - 14.75 Lakhs | |
| En-suite | £ 8,810.89 - 10,245.86 | ₹ 11.16 - 12.98 Lakhs |
Note: Students are advised to apply as early as possible to secure their preferred accommodation, as spaces are limited in each residence.
Cardiff University Cost of Living
Cardiff University provides an estimated cost of living to help international students plan their finances effectively. Expenses may vary depending on accommodation type, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.
| Item | Annual Undergraduate cost per year (39 weeks) |
Annual Postgraduate cost per year (52 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent including bills | £ 6,211.32 (₹ 7.86 Lakhs) |
£ 8,809.86 (₹ 11.15 Lakhs) |
| Food, toiletries and laundry | £ 2,553.72| (₹ 3.23 Lakhs) |
£ 3,404.96 (₹ 4.31 Lakhs) |
| Study costs (books and copying) | £ 162.00 (₹ 20,514) |
£ 216.00 (₹ 27,352) |
| Socialising and leisure | £ 1,462.50 (₹ 1.85 Lakhs) |
£ 1,950.00 (₹ 2.47 Lakhs) |
| Clothes | £ 288.00 (₹ 36,469) |
£ 384.00 (₹ 48,625) |
| Mobile phone and TV licence (assuming a TV licence is bought for each bedroom) |
£ 274.86 (₹ 34,805) |
£ 235.68 (₹ 29,844) |
| Total Cost of Living Annually | £ 10,952.40 (₹ 13.87 Lakhs) |
£ 15,000.50 (₹ 18.99 Lakhs) |
Note: Cardiff University also states that the average cost of living per month is approximately £ 1,216.93 (₹1.54 Lakhs) for undergraduate students and £ 1,250.04 (₹1.58 Lakhs) for postgraduate students.
For more information, check out the cost of living in the UK
Cardiff University Scholarships
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their studies financially. These scholarships are mainly merit-based and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Indian students can benefit from several funding options, including university-specific and country-based awards. Most scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction, helping to lower the overall cost of studying in the UK.
| Scholarship Name | Level | Awarded Amount | Eligibility for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate International Excellence Scholarship | UG | £ 10,000 (₹ 12.66 Lakhs) |
• Strong academic performance in Class 12 • Must hold an offer from the university |
| Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | UG / PG | £ 3,500 - 10,000 (₹ 4.43 - 12.66 Lakhs) |
• Based on academic merit • Must meet course entry requirements |
| Cardiff India Scholarship | PG | £ 6,000 (₹ 7.60 Lakhs) |
• Must be an Indian student • Hold an offer for a postgraduate course • Meet academic and English requirements |
| Red Dragon Scholarship | PG | £ 10,000 (₹ 12.66 Lakhs) |
• Awarded based on academic excellence • Offer holder required |
| MBA Public Value Scholarship | PG (MBA) | £ 7,500 (₹ 9.50 Lakhs) |
• Must have an MBA offer • Academic merit and/or professional experience • Open to international students |
| GREAT Scholarship | PG | £ 10,000 (₹ 12.66 Lakhs) |
• Indian students are eligible • Must meet academic criteria • Enrolled in an eligible postgraduate course |
Part-Time Work in the UK
International students studying at universities like Cardiff University are allowed to work part-time while studying in the UK. During term time, students can typically work up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during holidays, as per UK student visa rules.
According to the UK government, the National Minimum Wage (from April 2026) is:
- £12.71 (₹1,610) per hour for students aged 21 and above
- £10.85 (₹1,374) per hour for students aged 18 to 20
Part-time jobs can help students manage daily expenses such as food, travel, and personal costs, making studying in the UK more financially manageable.
For more information, check out the Part-time work in the UK
Cardiff University is a well-established institution and a member of the Russell Group, offering strong academic quality and global recognition. The university provides a wide range of courses with tuition fees varying by program, where undergraduate courses cost around £24,700 - 30,700 (₹31.28 - 38.88 lakhs) per year, and postgraduate programs range from £32,450 - 34,700 (₹41.09 - 43.94 lakhs) for the full course. Although the university does not publish an official acceptance rate, it is often estimated to be around 17% by third-party sources, making admissions competitive.
In terms of affordability, Cardiff is relatively cost-effective compared to other UK cities, with an average cost of living of around £1,216 - 1,250 (₹1.54 - 1.58 lakhs) per month, depending on lifestyle. The university also offers a range of merit-based scholarships to support international students financially. Overall, considering its fees, cost of living, rankings, and academic reputation, Cardiff University stands out as a practical and balanced choice for Indian students planning to study in the UK.
FAQs
Ques. What is the QS ranking of Cardiff University in 2026?
Ans. Cardiff University is ranked #181 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and #126 in Collegedunia Study Abroad Rankings 2026.
Ques. What percentage is required for Indian students in Class 12?
Ans. Indian students generally need around 78-81% in their best four subjects for undergraduate admissions.
Ques. What are the intakes at Cardiff University?
Ans. The main intake is in September, while the January intake is available for limited postgraduate courses.
Ques. Can international students work part-time in the UK?
Ans. Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Popular Programs and Important Dates
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Start Date for September 2026 Intake (22nd Sep 2026) | INR 40.7 L/Yr GBP 32,450 /Yr | 55%, TOEFL(4.5), IELTS(6.5) | ||
LLM 1 year | Start Date for September 2026 Intake (28th Sep 2026) | INR 31 L/Yr GBP 24,700 /Yr | 55%, TOEFL(4.5), IELTS(6.5), PTE: 69 | |
MBA 1 year | Application Deadline for September 2026 Intake (31st Jul 2026) | INR 43.6 L/Yr GBP 34,700 /Yr | 60%, TOEFL(5.0), IELTS(7.0) | |
L.L.B 3 years | UCAS Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (30th Jun 2026) | INR 31 L/Yr GBP 24,700 /Yr | 78%, TOEFL(90), IELTS(6.5) | - |
M.B.B.S 5 years | UCAS Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (30th Jun 2026) | INR 59.6 L/Yr GBP 47,450 /Yr | 78%, TOEFL(100), IELTS(7.0) | - |
B.Sc. Architecture Studies 3 years | UCAS Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (30th Jun 2026) | INR 38.5 L/Yr GBP 30,700 /Yr | 78%, TOEFL(90), IELTS(6.5) | - |
Start Date for September 2026 Intake (31st Aug 2026) | INR 41.7 L/Yr GBP 33,200 /Yr | 55%, TOEFL(4.5), IELTS(6.5) | ||
Start Date for September 2026 Intake (22nd Sep 2026) | INR 41.7 L/Yr GBP 33,200 /Yr | 60%, TOEFL(4.5), IELTS(6.5) | ||
M.Pharm 4 years | INR 38.5 L/Yr GBP 30,700 /Yr | 75%, TOEFL(5.0), IELTS(7.0) | ||
M.Sc Business Management 1 year | Start Date for September 2026 Intake (22nd Sep 2026) | INR 37.3 L/Yr GBP 29,700 /Yr | 55%, TOEFL(4.5), IELTS(6.5) |
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Cardiff University Reviews
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22 Reviews Found
Likes
- The University has excellent research environment and faculty.
- The collaboration among the other UK universities and international universities are also remarkable.
- I found it through an online search, and it’s a private student accommodation. The rent is around 720 GBP per month, which includes electricity, gas, water, WiFi, and maintenance fees.
Likes
- They have very clean and tidy environment.
- Libraries are super helpful for even all night study sessions.
- Professors areamazing and very kind
Dislikes
- Even though they have a lot of communities and support system the way you feel at home is different.
- Finding job in Cardiff is very difficult, I did not have a part time job in my academic year, I only got a job after I submitted my dissertation.
- People are very friendly and nice, but during tough times it's a battle on your own.
- It was uni accommodation, so upon admission, I was able to choose from the list they had.
- Monthly rent was £625. Already told you about this in detail previously. I did not find any challenge because it was listed on my uni profile. The distance was very far tho. I did not realise it would be that far, otherwise I wouldn't have taken the uni course in the first place.
Likes
- Style of teaching: practical approach with problem solving mindset as the base for learning. Compare it with Indian style of college education where focus is more on theory and passing exams
- Research environment: research as integral part of learning
- Supportive faculty: faculty providing resources as required for projects.
Dislikes
- Lack of proper job support
- Bad weather (atleast for me)
- Potential situations of racial abuse (I avoided a lot of situations like this)
- Since the University was an open campus with academic buildings spread across the city of Cardiff, all the accommodation was off campus. University did provide their own accommodation, ranging from flats to studio apartments to shared houses, etc. I myself opted for university-provided accommodation. The university provided a list of accommodation that they were providing. Since I was late to apply, I got a shared house with shared bathrooms and a kitchen with 9 individual rooms. The rent was £124 per week, which came down to around £500 per month.
- There are plenty of private university living complexes available around the city, suitable for every need.
- My accommodation was a 20 mins walk away from my academic building and 5 minutes away from the main university building.
Likes
- The location it was situated in.
- The student crowd and the student union.
- The curriculum that was taught and the manner in which it was taught (the professors were the best part!).
Dislikes
- In my course, there were not enough students, like it was not that in the forefront, even though we had an amazing faculty and group of professors.
- It might get a little daunting for international student especially Indians, as the teaching method is quite fast paced.
- The distance was a problem (for me since I was in business school, it was right at the end of the college premises).
- I chose to live at West Wing, an off-campus private accommodation, during my stay at Cardiff University. It was around 20 minutes from the main campus. Cardiff has many possibilities, so the search was simple. However, the finest spots are packed up quickly, so it’s better to start early.
- Before coming, I booked my spot online, and I would strongly advise the international students to do the same. Wi-Fi, utilities, gym access, study rooms and common areas were all included in the monthly fee at West Wing. (I used to pay GBP 170 per week for my room, which was a studio apartment). These aspects which offered comfort and chances for peer interaction, greatly influenced the lives of students. As an international student, it was comforting to know that security was robust.
- Although the West Wing and other private accommodations are convenient, the university also offers its own apartments. However, because they tend to sell out rapidly, reservations must be made well in advance.
- When they miss out, students often go to private options. The daily commute was a minor drawback of living off campus, but walking and public transport were dependable and doable. Due to their affordability and closeness to the university, Cathays and Roath are highly sought-after by Indians and foreign students seeking vibrant, student-focused neighbourhoods.Overall, I had a good experience at West wing, it was my home away from home, and I will always have an attachment to that place. I will forever cherish the experiences I had there and it has deeply shaped me into the person I am today.
Likes
- Well-read, experienced professors who would go the extra mile to make you successful every step of the way
- Curriculum was hands-on and allowed you to hone skills to the point that buy the time you left college you had a portfolio ready, contacts nurtured and in your kitty
- The college takes care of international student in case of emergencies, especially if you run out of money and have no job
Dislikes
- Expensive for international students
- My course wasnt NCTJ accredited which is a requirement for most news agencies, esp in the UK but also most news agencies will train you in the course if you are hired
- If you plan to come back to India, you will feel a clash of ethics as the college teaches you very high standards of ethics
- I saw online platforms for student accommodations on FB and websites. Monthly rent for Lumis (my accommodation) was £450. The rooms are really small. Kitchen is communal, so you have to take turns to clean it and throw the trash out. No challenges really. Bathroom was tiny but attached to your room. Electricity was included in rent, which, trust me, is a massive plus. Heating included. There was a laundry room and gym. You had to pay for use. There was also a reading room with a printer attached. You had to pay for printer use. Most of the room and kitchen are furnished. You will need to buy your own bedding though and some utensils. It's good to buy your cooker from India. Other utensils you can get from the pound store in the UK or from an outgoing student. He'd sell it for ultra cheap.
- In terms of accos, I recommend Lumis and Zenit in Cardiff. Both are good accos. Both accos are at a 12-minute distance from campus, which is not a lot by UK standards.
Likes
- It has a supportive faculty with learned, kind professors.
- I like my peers who are supportive and friendly
- Teaching here is a group discussion rather than a one way teaching from the professor alone
Dislikes
- Certain things are pretty vague about the education process - atleast in my course.
- Lack of enough understanding of what is expected from the professors or the assessment reviewers when they access reviews
- College library lacks a few resources
- Find your accommodation through known platforms that you get on Google like Amber, Unite Students, etc. If you have any relatives living at the same place, you can easily live with them. If you are going with the application through an agent, you can ask them to find you an accommodation as well since they did this job for long.
Likes
- Faculty: Some of the faculty members are very experienced and knowledgeable. There are some who are great researchers but not that great teachers
- Academics: Pretty content with the courses and options we had with the electives.
- Extracurricular activities: There are ample societies (sports, cultural) you can be part of.
Dislikes
- Placements: There are career fairs in the first sem for the graduate roles. Not really helpful if you have senior work experience and need to get into senior roles
- Through uni admission groups (WhatsApp). I was at a private student accommodation, that's why.
- My rent was £140/week including bills (2022-23)
Likes
- A good university overall with good faculty good modules but can definitely improve module content.
- Overall learning experience was great. Faculty was really helpful.
Likes
- Uni Culture and uni trying to help everyone and the societies being made for every community so that a student feels homely and engaged.
- The professors are really helpful and they try to help ypu out with any issues you go to them.
Likes
- The infrastructure in the campus was really beautiful and equipped with all the necessary things
- The staff was very friendly and understanding and highly educated individuals
- Various clubs and societies were present, and you could even make your own club
Dislikes
- There were too many students in one class
- There were a lot of international students in the class
- They did not assign groups to us and asked us to make our own groups, which did not give us a lot of chance to interact with other students from other countries
-
Off campus. Student accommodations are really good. You can find them through online platforms or agents. If you’re choosing to stay in Cardiff, eclipse is a good option where I stay. They have a lot of facilities. The bedrooms are on suite and the kitchen has a lot of space. They also have a movie room, study rooms, a gym, and party rooms in their facilities, which adds on to your student experience. It is also located in the city center, which gives you a lot of connectivity.
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