Cardiff University

Cardiff is a capital of Wales with a population of about 350,000 people. Approximately 20% of the population are students, which makes it safe, friendly and affordable. Cardiff is a city with all the culture, sports, shops, entertainment, work opportunities and atmosphere you would expect of a modern European metropolis, including a £675 million shopping centre and a 70,000 seated stadium. This means you get a small cheap city you can easily walk around, but also an exciting city where there is always something to do.

Cardiff was one of the UK’s first multicultural cities and an estimated 94 languages are spoken here. This is a real benefit for international students because many of the food and ingredients you have in your country are also sold in Cardiff. You can also be assured that there are many religious and cultural facilities across the city, including mosques, synagogues, churches and temples.

Cardiff University is made up of two large, well-located campuses: Cathays Park and Heath Park. With wide leafy avenues and elegant Portland stone buildings, Cathays Park is an inspiring place to study in the centre of the city. This lively campus includes over twenty academic schools, a large Students’ Union building, state-of-the-art facilities and wide-ranging sports, social and entertainment provision. Heath Park is a dedicated healthcare campus with state of the art facilities, on the same site as the University Hospital of Wales. There is an excellent selection of amenities and services within easy reach, including a Students’ Union presence.

When you enrol at Cardiff University you also become a member of Cardiff Students’ Union. Being a member means that you are entitled to a wealth of benefits, entertainment, support, services and activities. The Lounge in Students’ Union is fantastic place to meet friends and relax and is very popular with International Students. It is an ultra-modern space with a meeting rooms, big TV screen and Skype capabilities. The Union also has a range of cafés where you can have a good meal. It is a great place for entertainment in the evening, with low prices and its own night-club, making it a popular choice for many students. There is also a range of shops selling everything from computers to course books, food, houses and essay printing.

Within the Union, there are over 140 cultural, social and political societies run by students for students. They provide the opportunity to try something new, almost every week. They offer a huge range of activities, from going on trips and holidays, making music, volunteering your time and energy for a worthy charity, to celebrating a national day or religious event and more. Becoming involved in a society is an excellent way to make friends, discover new interests and add to your CV.

The University takes sport very seriously, and the Athletic Union runs 60 sports clubs and arranges fixtures against other universities. Almost every popular sport is played at the University and whatever your level you will find an opportunity to play and participate. If you are interested in keeping fit, the University has three gyms and runs classes dedicated to mental and physical well-being.