Study in Cardiff, The United Kingdom

About Cardiff

Cardiff is the capital of Wales. It lies on the Bristol Channel at the mouth of the River Taff, about 150 miles (240 km) west of London. Its population grew by 4.7% between the last two censuses, from just under 346,100 in 2011 to around 362,300 in 2021, the second-largest increase in Wales after Newport, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

For students, Cardiff offers the facilities of a capital city with rents below the UK average, a compact, flat centre and good rail links to the rest of Wales and to England.

Studying in Cardiff

Our directory lists two schools in Cardiff: one university and one English language school. Teaching is in English.

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, an association of UK universities. Its subjects listed in our directory range from biology, computer science and neuroscience to international relations, philosophy and midwifery.

Celtic School is an English language school for international students. According to our records, its courses include General English, IELTS exam preparation and Business English.

Visas for students

Short courses of up to 6 months, including English courses, can usually be taken as a Standard Visitor, which allows study at an accredited institution. English courses of more than 6 and up to 11 months need a Short-term study visa (£228). Degree courses and other longer courses at a licensed sponsor need a Student visa, which costs £558 from outside the UK; students aged 18 or over on a degree-level course can usually stay for up to 5 years. After a degree, the Graduate visa gives 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if you apply from 1 January 2027. Always check the current rules on GOV.UK before you apply.

Cost of living for students

According to the ONS, the average monthly private rent in Cardiff was £1,177 in August 2026, higher than the Welsh average of £846, and £908 for a one-bedroom home. This is below the UK average of £1,400, but housing is still the largest cost for most students.

For a Student visa outside London, the UK government asks students to show £1,171 per month (for up to 9 months) for living costs, on top of course fees. This is the minimum for the visa, not a full budget.

Getting around and daily life

Many of Cardiff's main sights are within a 15-minute walk of each other, and the city is flat and easy to cycle. Cardiff Bus runs routes across the city; fares can be paid by app, contactless card or exact cash. Under a Welsh Government scheme, young people aged 16 to 21 with a mytravelpass pay £1 for a single and £3 for a day ticket on participating buses. A waterbus links the city centre with Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff is less than two hours from London by train, with services every 30 minutes, and Great Western Railway also runs direct trains to Bristol and Bath. Cardiff Airport is 13 miles west of the city.

Frequently asked questions

Which universities are in Cardiff?

Our directory lists Cardiff University, a member of the Russell Group of UK universities.

Can I learn English in Cardiff?

Yes. Celtic School is an English language school in Cardiff whose courses include General English and IELTS preparation. English is the language of daily life and teaching in the city.

How much does it cost to rent in Cardiff?

The ONS reports an average private rent of £1,177 a month in August 2026, or £908 for a one-bedroom home.

How far is Cardiff from London?

Less than two hours by train, with services every 30 minutes, according to Visit Cardiff.