Overview Page: Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University holds a recognized position both nationally and globally, reflecting its commitment to quality education and research. In the 2024/25 academic year, it is ranked in the 1001–1200 band globally by Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. 

Below is a detailed table providing an overview of Cardiff Met's rankings across major global ranking bodies.

After going through the 2025 rankings for the Cardiff Metropolitan University, it's time to explore its subject-specific performance.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

Cardiff Metropolitan University is recognized for its strong performance in several subject areas by major global ranking bodies, including QS, Times Higher Education (THE), and U.S. News & World Report. 

Among its strongest programs, Cardiff Met excels in Hospitality and Leisure Management (QS ranking: 151-160), Sports-Related Subjects (QS ranking: 101-140), and Education Studies (THE ranking: 501-600).

Additionally, U.S. News ranks the university's Arts and Humanities program at #116 and its Cell Biology program at #146 worldwide, showcasing Cardiff Met's growing research impact in both the arts and sciences.

Here's a combined table with subject-wise rankings for Cardiff Metropolitan University in 2025 across three ranking bodies:

Note: Rankings may vary by subject.

To understand more about the impact of university rankings on demand and admissions, check out Cardiff Metropolitan University's ranking page.

After reviewing the academic ranking across various programs at Cardiff Met, let's understand the latest admission process and deadlines for these courses. 

Understanding the application deadlines and intakes is crucial for prospective students to plan their academic journey. The Cardiff Metropolitan University offers two primary intakes for undergraduate and postgraduate programs: September and January. 

For the September 2025 intake, Cardiff Metropolitan University has set a unified application deadline of July 25, 2025, for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Below are mentioned the essential deadlines and intake periods for various programs:

A clear understanding of the admission process will guarantee a smooth application journey at Cardiff Metropolitan University. 

However, once the admission dates and deadlines are clarified, the next important part is to check out the programs you can study at Cardiff Metropolitan University. 

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a smooth admissions process for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university welcomes applications from a diverse international student body of over 1,200 students from more than 140 countries. 

Moreover, the university has an acceptance rate of approximately 64-75%, making it moderately competitive.

For the September 2025 intake, the key application deadline for most courses is July 25, 2025. Admission decisions are typically processed within 48 hours for undergraduate applications and about one week for postgraduate applications. 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the key qualifications and academic criteria required to be successful in your application to Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements at Cardiff Met University are structured to ensure that candidates meet academic and language proficiency standards, with specific pathways available for both domestic and international applicants.

Domestic students typically need Level 3 qualifications, such as A-levels or their equivalents, including five GCSEs at grade C or above. At the same time, international students must have qualifications equivalent to UK Level 3, generally around 50-65%, depending on their country and program. 

For example, Indian applicants require a minimum overall grade of 65%, with a minimum of 55% in two advanced subjects.

Here are the admission requirements for studying at Cardiff Met University:

Academic Qualification

Cardiff Metropolitan University requires applicants to meet specific academic qualifications depending on the level of study. 

For undergraduate admission, applicants should have completed their Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 50% and at least 55% in mathematics or science for health-related courses. 

Here are the detailed requirements:

Language Proficiency

Cardiff Metropolitan University requires all applicants whose first language is not English to demonstrate a sufficient level of English language proficiency. 

The minimum accepted scores for undergraduate and standard postgraduate courses are an overall score of 6.0 IELTS 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5, a TOEFL iBT score of 72, and a PTE Academic score of 59.

The university also accepts Cambridge English, Trinity College London, and LanguageCert SELT tests, with specific minimum and competitive score thresholds. Meeting the language proficiency requirements is essential for admission and visa approval.

Here are the specific language proficiency details:

Note: All Secure English Language Tests (SELT) must be taken at UKVI-approved centres. Scores are valid for two years before the course start date.

Competitive Exams

Cardiff Metropolitan University generally does not require standardized competitive exams such as the GRE or GMAT for admission to undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

However, for applicants from the USA, the university may consider SAT or ACT scores in addition to a High School Diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (a grade B average).  

Specifically, a combined SAT score of 1100 or above with a minimum essay score of 6, or an ACT score of 20+, can strengthen the application, but is not mandatory for all courses.

The university emphasizes academic qualifications and English language proficiency over competitive test scores, making the admission process more accessible.

Below is a table outlining the specific competitive exam criteria required by Cardiff Metropolitan University:

Visa Requirements 

Cardiff Metropolitan University holds a Student Visa Sponsor Status from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). This allows the university to issue a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is essential for international students to apply for a UK Student Visa. 

Applicants must have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees plus GBP 1,136 (INR 1.28 L) per month for living costs (for up to 9 months). 

Below is a table outlining the specific visa requirements for studying at Cardiff Met:

Are you still unsure about the Cardiff Metropolitan University’s admission requirements? Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Visit the Cardiff Metropolitan University Admission Page for all the details on eligibility and criteria. Confidently plan your next steps.

However, before applying for a visa, it's essential to check the application deadlines and intake periods. Let's explore these crucial details to help you plan your next steps.

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a diverse portfolio of more than 319 undergraduate, postgraduate, and specialized programs across multiple disciplines. These include degrees and certificates in fields such as STEM, business, liberal arts, art and design, sport and health sciences, education, and emerging technologies.

Here are some popular programs offered at Cardiff Met University:

• MBA (Master of Business Administration): An internationally recognized program designed to develop leadership and management skills, with specialist pathways including Business Analytics, Project Management, and Marketing.
• MSc International Business Management: Focuses on global business strategies, international marketing, and cross-cultural management, preparing students for careers in multinational corporations and international trade.
• MSc Food Science & Technology: Combines scientific principles with practical applications in food production, safety, and innovation, ideal for students aiming for roles in the food industry and research.
• MSc Sports-Related Subjects: Cardiff Met is highly regarded for its sport and exercise sciences programs, offering advanced training in sports management, performance analysis, and health sciences, supported by world-class facilities.
• MSc Financial Management: Covers advanced financial theories, risk management, and investment strategies, equipping students for roles in banking, finance, and consultancy.
• BA (Hons) Business and Management: A comprehensive undergraduate degree covering core business disciplines such as marketing, finance, and human resources, with opportunities for specialist pathways and real-world experience.
• International Hotel and Hospitality Management - BA (Hons): Offers practical and theoretical knowledge in hospitality operations, tourism management, and customer service excellence, aimed at careers in the global hospitality industry.

After exploring some popular courses at Cardiff Metropolitan University, let's check out the tuition fees for these popular programs. 

The total cost of studying at Cardiff Metropolitan University includes both tuition fees and living expenses, which together form a crucial part of a student's budget planning. 

On average, tuition fees range from approximately GBP 13,000 to GBP 19,500 (INR 14 L - INR 21 L), depending on the course and level of study. Living costs in Cardiff, covering accommodation, food, transport, and essentials, typically add another GBP 9,000 to GBP 12,000 (INR 10 L - INR 13 L) annually.

Here's the cost associated with studying at Cardiff Met:

In addition to tuition fees, there are additional costs such as housing and food. Let's explore them.

Living expenses are a significant part of the overall cost of studying at Cardiff Metropolitan University, typically accounting for around 40-50% of a student's total budget.

Understanding the cost of living is crucial because it helps students budget effectively and avoid unexpected financial stress during their studies. Being aware of these expenses ensures you can plan ahead, make informed choices about accommodation and lifestyle, and focus more on your academic success.

Here are the additional expenses to consider.

Note: The INR values are estimated using the current exchange rate of approximately £1 = ₹113.6 (April 2025).

With a clear understanding of living costs, it's equally important to explore financial support options that can ease the financial burden. Let's now take a look at the scholarships offered by the University to help reduce your overall expenses.

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a wide range of programs with tuition fees varying by course level and specialization. For international students, fees typically range from approximately GBP 11,000 to GBP 19,500  (approximately INR 12 L- INR 22 L) per year, depending on the program.

Below is the table mentioning tuition costs for different programs at Cardiff Metropolitan University:

Note: Fees are approximate and may vary by course and academic year.

To provide a broader perspective, let's examine the cost of studying at Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a comprehensive range of scholarships to support both domestic (Home fee status) and international students, with over 20 different bursaries and scholarships available.

For domestic students, scholarships and bursaries primarily target Home fee status applicants, including specialized awards like the Sanctuary Award for asylum seekers and refugees. 

International students benefit from multiple internal scholarships automatically considered upon application, plus competitive awards such as the Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship and the Vice Chancellor Scholarship.

Let's explore key internal and external scholarships available to students.

Internal Scholarships

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers several internal scholarships to support both undergraduate and postgraduate students, based on academic merit and professional experience.

For the 2025 academic year, the university awards scholarships such as the Undergraduate Scholarship and MBA Scholarship, each offering up to GBP 2,500 (INR 2.9L) off tuition fees. 

The Vice Chancellor Scholarship, available for selected MA and MSc programs, provides up to GBP 2,500 (INR 2.9L ) tuition fee reduction but applies only to postgraduate taught courses with a standard fee of GBP 17,600 (approx. INR 2L).

Here are some internal scholarships:

Note: All international applicants are automatically considered for these scholarships upon submitting their application, with the exception of the Sanctuary Award, for which a separate application is required. Applicants

With internal scholarships covered, let's now take a look at the external scholarship opportunities available to students.

External Scholarships

Cardiff Metropolitan University supports international students through several prestigious external scholarships that help offset tuition and living costs. 

For example, the Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship, funded by the Welsh Government and partners, awards GBP 10,000 (INR 1.35 L) towards tuition fees to eligible full-time master's students from India, the USA, Canada, Vietnam, and the EU. 

Here are some more external scholarship options:

Cardiff Met automatically considers applicants for some internal scholarships, but external scholarships typically require separate applications through the respective organizations.

With funding options in place, the next key focus becomes how well Cardiff Metropolitan University prepares you for your future career.

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a vibrant student life with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies tailored to diverse interests. The Students' Union supports over 30 active societies, including academic, cultural, faith-based, and hobby groups, with no limit on the number of students who can join. 

If a society doesn't exist that matches a student's interest, the Union provides full support to start a new one, including assistance with venues, events, and promotion.

Here's how Cardiff Met University makes student life exciting and well-rounded:

1. Extracurricular Activities and Clubs

• Over 30 societies covering interests like arts and crafts, technology, gaming, culture, and faith
• Student-led societies such as the Climbing Society, Formula Met (Formula 1 enthusiasts), AI Society, and Capture the Flag Society
• Opportunities to take leadership roles within societies with full training provided
• Regular social events, trips, guest lectures, and workshops are organized by societies and the Students' Union

2. Sports Programs and Notable Teams

• Cardiff Met's Athletic Union has over 1,000 members competing in BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) and national leagues annually
• Competitive teams in football, rugby, basketball, netball, and athletics, alongside social sports schemes for casual participation
• Students representing Cardiff Met are known as 'Archers,' symbolizing courage, skill, and 'hwyl' (fun)
• Access to world-class sports facilities, including gyms, athletics tracks, and training centres on campus. 

This active and inclusive student life builds a strong sense of community, promotes personal growth, and enhances well-being, complementing academic studies at Cardiff Met.

The Cardiff Metropolitan University has established a strong tradition of producing graduates who go on to make significant impacts in a variety of fields. Here's a look at some of its notable alumni who have left their mark.

Cardiff Metropolitan University is committed to enhancing the employability of its students through dedicated career support and a specialized Placement Cell. The university ensures that students gain valuable experience, making them highly competitive in the job market upon graduation.

This focus on employability is reflected in the variety of placement opportunities offered, which include:

• Dedicated Placement Cell: Focuses on enhancing employability through tailored career support services.
• School of Management: Facilitates work placements for 500+ students annually across public, private, and voluntary sectors.
• Variety of Placement Options: Offers placements ranging from 20-day modules to 10-12 week summer internships and full-year sandwich placements, providing real-world experience.
• Impressive Graduate Employment Rate: 96.3% of graduates are employed within 15 months of graduation, reflecting the effectiveness of Cardiff Met's career services and industry connections.

Now, let's explore the top recruiters hiring graduates from Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Top recruiters

The university engages with local and national employers to support innovation and economic growth. For example, the Cardiff Capital Region Academic-Industry Partnerships Programme provides funding and expertise to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

This close industry connection ensures that Cardiff Met graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and that businesses can access cutting-edge academic knowledge.

Based on industry partnerships and student placements, here are some of the top recruiters associated with Cardiff Metropolitan University:

• Deloitte: Opportunities in consulting, audit, and risk advisory.
• PwC: Positions in tax, cybersecurity, and consulting.
• EY: Careers in assurance, strategy, and transactions.
• HSBC: Roles in finance, banking, and international business.
• IBM: Positions in technology, software development, and IT services.
• Microsoft: Opportunities in software engineering, cloud computing, and business solutions.
• SAP: Careers in enterprise software and business process management.
• Hilton: Roles in hospitality management and customer service.
• Marriott: Positions in hotel operations and event management.
• Accor: Opportunities in global hospitality and tourism management.
• NHS: Careers in healthcare administration and public health services.
• Welsh Government: Roles in public policy, administration, and community development.

These employers reflect the university's diverse connections with industries across business, technology, hospitality, the public sector, and the creative arts. 

Let’s now take a look at the campuses available to students

Cardiff Metropolitan University has a strong tradition of producing graduates who have made significant contributions across diverse fields, including sports, media, arts, business, and politics. 

Cardiff Metropolitan University has an alumni network of over 70,000 graduates worldwide, with this number increasing every year. Notable alumni include Olympic champions like Helen Glover MBE, Rory Burns, and Nicky Piper MBE.

Below are the top alumni across diverse fields:

Cardiff Metropolitan University operates primarily across two main campuses: Llandaff and Cyncoed, each known for distinct academic strengths and facilities, complemented by the nearby Plas Gwyn residential campus.

Here are the features of Cardiff Met University campuses:

1. Llandaff Campus

• Academic Focus: Hosts the Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, School of Management, School of Technologies, and School of Art & Design.
• Sports Science Excellence: Home to the Sports Science Laboratory, supporting cutting-edge research and practical training in athletic performance.
• Design Innovation: Features a Digital Design Studio for creative development, promoting industry-ready skills in design and technology.

2. Cyncoed Campus

• World-Class Sports Facilities: Houses the National Indoor Athletics Centre, a hub for research and training in sports science.
• Research-Driven: Specializes in sports injury rehabilitation and exercise physiology, with strong industry collaborations.
• Human Performance Focus: Offers advanced labs like the Human Performance Laboratory, focusing on optimizing health and fitness.
• Plas Gwyn Residential Campus: Provides modern student housing, supporting both academic and personal development with collaborative spaces.

Let's compare Cardiff Metropolitan University with other Universities to see which best suits your goals.

Choosing the right university plays a crucial role in shaping your academic journey and future career. Factors such as graduate employability, salary outcomes, and academic reputation help students assess which institution best aligns with their goals.

This comparison helps students to align their choice with personal goals, financial considerations, and career aspirations, ensuring a better fit for their academic and professional future

Let's look at a detailed comparison table to understand how Cardiff Met, University of Exeter, and Bangor University stack up across key metrics.

Now that you have a better understanding of how UTS compares to similar universities, let's take a look at the student services it offers.