Challenge the present, change the future at Cardiff University
The Cardiff University International Study Centre is located on campus at Cardiff University. The International Study Centre is your pathway to one of the top 200 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings, 2025).
Why choose Cardiff University International Study Centre?
The International Study Centre offers pathway programmes to help students prepare for life at a top UK university. Studying at Cardiff International Study Centre means you get all the benefits of a British education; with the unique culture and history you can only get by living in Wales.
Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study a pathway programme at Cardiff University International Study Centre:
Expert support
By choosing a pathway programme at the Cardiff International Study Centre, you will be part of a supportive community from day one. Experienced staff are always available to help you with anything you need, both inside and outside of your academic studies.
Progress to Cardiff University
Cardiff University is a prestigious yet inclusive Russell Group university, known for the quality of its research and its focus on employability. It offers a fantastic student experience, due to its location in a friendly, affordable and multicultural UK capital city.
With strong ties to industries across the UK, Cardiff University provides students with hands-on learning opportunities. Through a blend of cutting-edge resources and dedicated career services, Cardiff University equips students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in their chosen professional fields.
Campus life
There are many ways get involved with student life on campus. Cardiff University is constantly developing its facilities to ensure an unforgettable student experience.
As a city campus, you will always have everything close by including the Students’ Union and libraries. The new £50m Centre for Student Life has improved student support services and social spaces.
Live in a vibrant capital city
As the capital of Wales, Cardiff is a dynamic city known for its exciting student life and easy access to both urban and natural attractions. The city centre has a mix of stunning architecture dating back to the twelfth century and large green spaces like Bute Park, which is a 5-minute walk from the University.
86%
of Cardiff University International Study Centre students who completed their programme in 2024 were offered a place to study at Cardiff University.
Key facts
Location: Cardiff, Wales
Pathway programmes delivered and semester dates:
- International Foundation Year – September, November, January
- Accelerated International Foundation – March
- International Year One – September, November, January
- Pre-Masters Programme – November, January
Ranking: 46th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2025)
My time at the International Study Centre was really fun. I got to meet a lot of people from all over the world. I'm grateful for the International Study Centre because it really helped with the time and all the coursework that I had to do in university, it helped me go through it a lot smoother. I really enjoyed my time there.
Verlane from Malaysia
Studied International Foundation Year
Programmes on offer at Cardiff International Study Centre
There are a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes available at Cardiff University International Study Centre.
Undergraduate
International Foundation Year
- Designed for students who need to strengthen their English and academic skills before starting a degree.
- Offers subject-specific modules and core skill development to support progression.
- Leads to the first year of an undergraduate degree at Cardiff University upon successful completion.
Subject routes include:
- Arts, Humanities, Law & Social Sciences
- Business, Economics, Accounting & Finance
- Engineering, Physical Sciences & Architecture
- Health, Medical & Life Sciences
Accelerated International Foundation Year
- A shorter, intensive version of the International Foundation Year.
- Suitable for students with strong academic and English language backgrounds.
- Offers the same progression opportunities as the standard programme.
Subject routes include:
- Business, Economics, Accounting & Finance
- Engineering, Physical Science & Computer Science
International Year One
- Equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree.
- Ideal for students ready to start university-level study but who would benefit from extra support adjusting to the UK system.
- Leads directly into the second year of an undergraduate degree at Cardiff University.
Subject routes include:
- Accounting & Finance
- Business Management
- Engineering
- International Relations
- Journalism, Media & Culture
- Law
- Psychology
Postgraduate
Pre-Masters Programme
- For students with an undergraduate degree who need to boost academic English and subject knowledge.
- Helps prepare you for the demands of postgraduate study at Cardiff University.
- Successful completion allows progression to a wide range of master’s degrees.
Subject routes include:
- Business, Economics, Social Sciences & Humanities
- Science & Computing
Entry requirements
View full entry requirements on the Cardiff University International Study Centre site.
Fees
Check tuition fees on the Cardiff University International Study Centre site.