CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
AGENT HANDBOOK
We have created this handbook in order to provide you with the information you need when
advising students about Cardiff University. This should answer many of your frequently
asked questions and should provide you with a helpful overview of Cardiff University.
If you have any questions about this handbook, or about Cardiff University in general, please
do not hesitate to contact your agent dedicated team at the International Office. We work
hard to respond to all queries within 24 hours and can be your first point of contact for all
queries to Cardiff University.
Email address: [email protected]
We are always happy to help!
Information about:
Cardiff University Main Building

Cardiff—the city

Courses

Accommodation

Finances

Agent Portal

Services we provide

And much more...
Contents
Click title to go to page

Your Support Services

Our Requirements from you

Why Cardiff?

Cardiff University Structure

The International Office Team



Key Facts about our Schools
- College of Arts, Humanities & Social
Sciences
- College of Physical Sciences & Engineering
- College of Biomedical & Life Sciences
English Language Requirements
English Language Programmes
- Pre-Sessional Programmes
- English for University Study Programme

International Foundation Programme

Finances and Fees

Accommodation

Visa and Immigration Information

Coming to Cardiff University

Useful Links
Your dedicated support team…
Rachel Hampton
Ally Griguol
Services we provide for you…
Agent Dedicated Email Account—[email protected]
Managed by Rachel Hampton, this email account works to a 24 hour turnaround time and is the first
point of contact for all general enquiries from agents. Ally works on this account on a day to day basis
and is responsible for answering the majority of queries. We are able to answer queries about
eligibility, application status queries and help to clarify information sent from other departments within
the University. Evidence of counselling for students should be sent here, as well as any additional
supporting documents in support of an application. General processing guidelines can be found in
Appendix 1.
Agent Website
There is a dedicated section of the Cardiff University website for our agents and we encourage all
agents to use this, as it provides quick links to a lot of information that they will require. This section
of the website has been introduced very recently and will be developed further in the future. The
Agent Website can be found at the following weblink:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/agent-portal.html
Agent Portal
The agent portal was rolled out to all Cardiff University agents in July 2015, so this is still a relatively
new system. We make every effort to encourage all agents to use the portal as it provides information
about all applications and allows access to make changes or additions to all correctly coded
applications. Agents should have a username and password which will allow them to log in, please let
Rachel know if any of you do not have this information. Please find guidance notes for the Agent
Portal in Appendix 2.
Agent Newsletter
This is produced by Rachel at least once every two months and will include various updates and
useful information for agents. We try to include at least one update from each College within the
University, as well as useful processing/application updates and any Cardiff University news which
may be appropriate. Please do let us know if you have any feedback about the content of the Agent
Newsletter.
What we require from you…
Cardiff University agents are expected to meet the following service levels in its dealings with
students:

To give students accurate and current information and material relating to Cardiff University
programmes and prices.

To advise and assist students in completing application forms for Cardiff University programmes
which are appropriate, based on the student’s previous academic experience and subject of
interest.

Provide on-going advice to students about (i) their applications generally, (ii) studying in the
United Kingdom, (iii) UK entry visa requirements (if applicable), (iv) studying with the Provider,
and (v) the entry requirements for any particular Cardiff University programme.

Pass on all communication from Cardiff University to the student and ensure that this information
is understood correctly.

Comply with all laws, regulations and practices relating to its obligations to the student and to act
diligently and in good faith in all its dealings with the students, acting in line with the Cardiff
University Agent contract.

Agents must inform Cardiff University of any changes to office addresses and contact details
immediately in order for us to update our records.
Thank you for all of your
hard work and
for the great support you
provide to
students and to us.
What we require from you (continued)…
Undergraduate Application Procedures

The agent is responsible for checking that students have provided all necessary details on the
UCAS form and that these are all correct, including contacts for references and the inclusion of
personal statements.

Unless precluded from so doing, the agent should apply to UCAS in order to be allocated a centre
code number, or buzzword. Wherever possible this code must be entered on UCAS application
forms for students who have been counselled by the agent.

In addition to the above, the agent is required to ensure that all students are correctly coded to the
correct agent office within Cardiff University’s internal system. In order to do this, a scanned copy
of the UCAS summary page related to the Student’s application should be sent to
[email protected] . This will ensure that the Provider is able to link applications with the
Representative, and will enable the Provider to recognise the Student as linked to the
Representative for commission payment and other related purposes.

Within the UCAS application form, agents are required to supply Cardiff University with students’
home address and contact details - including e-mail address, enabling Cardiff University to
communicate with the Student directly, as well as with the agent themselves (student contact
details are a UCAS requirement).

The Cardiff University student number or UCAS personal ID number should be quoted in all
correspondence between the agent and Cardiff University.
Postgraduate Application Procedures

Agents are required to use the online application function for all postgraduate applications. In rare
circumstances where this is not possible, all paper applications for postgraduate schemes of study
must be submitted via the International Office at [email protected] .

Agents are responsible for checking that students have provided all necessary details on the
postgraduate application form and that these are all correct, including contacts for references and
the inclusion of personal statements.

Within the application form, agents are required to supply Cardiff University with students’ home
address and contact details - including e-mail address, enabling Cardiff University to communicate
with the student directly as well as with the agent themselves.

The Cardiff University student number should be quoted in all correspondence between the agent
and Cardiff University.

The agent is required to ensure that all students are correctly coded to their agent office within the
Cardiff University agent portal. This should be done by selecting their agent office within the
postgraduate online application form or by submitting a signed authority letter as soon as possible
after first contact with the student.
Why Cardiff?
Some key facts about Cardiff University
Reputation
Founded in 1883, Cardiff University is established as one of Britain's
leading research universities. A member of the elite Russell Group top
24 UK research-led universities.
Academic Ranking
 Ranked 5 in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework 2014
 Ranked 123rd in the world by the 2014 QS World University
th
Rankings.
Location
 Cardiff University is located in the city centre of the capital city of
Wales and is around a 2 hour train journey from London.
 Cardiff’s population of around 350,000 people has a student
population of around 20%, making the city friendly, safe and
affordable.
Cost of Study


Cardiff has one of the lowest living costs of any major UK University
city.
Each year there are a range of Cardiff University scholarship
awards that students are able to apply for.
International Students
Over 4000 international students representing over 120 nationalities.
Infrastructure

25 academic schools, offering over 300 Undergraduate courses,
more than 200 Postgraduate Taught Masters’ and a vast range of
Postgraduate Research Degrees.

Cardiff University is investing £300m in a new Innovation Campus,
which will include The Centre for Student Life and the building of a
new £44m brain research imaging centre (CUBRIC).

The National Student Survey 2015 found 90% of our students were
satisfied with their overall experience at the University.

We have a range of services dedicated to students, including a
Student Support Centres, Careers & Employability, IT Facilities, an
award winning Students’ Union and various libraries.

Cardiff University has a range of residences to suit individual
preferences and budgets.

Undergraduates and overseas/EU postgraduates (arriving in
September) are guaranteed a place in accommodation for the
duration of their studies.
Student Support
Accommodation
Cardiff University Structure
Meet the International Office Team...
Directors - We have a Director and Deputy Director who are responsible for the strategic direction of the
International Office and working closely with Cardiff University Schools and Colleges on strategic and
international matters.
Administration Team - Team of 5 people who act as the first point of contact for all general enquiries to
the International Office, by telephone, email or from visitors. Responsible for the International@ and
Agents@ email accounts as well as administrative tasks which offer support to the rest of the office.
Sponsor Relations - We have a dedicated member of the team who is responsible for upholding
excellent relationships with sponsors from around the world, including providing them with student
progress updates and arranging visits to Cardiff.
Partnerships Team - We have two members of the team who are responsible for managing and
recording all Cardiff University partnerships. This team are also responsible for central and external
scholarships.
International Officers and Regional Managers* - We currently have a team of three International
Officers and two Regional Managers, who are responsible for managing our recruitment activities in many
countries around the world. The country manager for your country can be found within the International
section of the Cardiff University website.
Marketing Team - We have an International Marketing Manager and Marketing Officer who are
responsible for all marketing, promotional and advertising materials for use in international student
recruitment.
Global Opportunity Centre - This team of nine are responsible for providing services to students, staff
and external partners in relation to Study Abroad, Erasmus, Exchange, International Volunteering and
Internships abroad.
Cardiff University is delighted to have two in-country offices with dedicated staff who work on our behalf to
further promote Cardiff University in India and China. You are able to liaise with these teams in India and
China as well as staff in Cardiff University within the UK.
*Please note that for a small number of countries, country management lies with International
Office staff within College teams. Please see country specific of our website for further
information.
Key facts about Cardiff University Schools...
COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
Cardiff Business School

Ranked number 6 for Business and Management Studies in the UK by REF
2014.
 Ranked number 7 in the Times Good University Guide 2015.
 Brand new £13.5 million Postgraduate Teaching Centre which houses the
School’s postgraduate programmes.
 Graduate destinations: Deloitte, HSBC, KPMG, PWC, Microsoft
School of English, Communication & Philosophy

Ranked in top 10 for English Language and Literature in the UK
by REF 2014.
 Research-inspired teaching prepares students for graduate
destinations in fields of legal and education professions,
publishing and the creative industries and also private sector
business.
School of History, Archaeology & Religion


Ranked in top 200 for History in the QS World Rankings 2015.
Cardiff is an excellent study location for this area, being close to the
National Museum for Wales and many historically significant sites.
School of Journalism, Media & Cultural Studies

Ranked number 1 in the UK for Journalism by the Guardian in
2016.
 Ranked number 2 in the UK for Communication, Cultural and
Media Studies by REF 2014.
 Graduate destinations: Al-Jazeera English; China Daily; Reuters,
NewsX Channel in India; The Fiscal Times in New York.
Cardiff Law School



Ranked number 13 for Law in the UK by REF 2014.
Ranked in the top 150 for Law in the world by the QS World Rankings 2015.
One of the largest law libraries in the UK with over 100,000 volumes and a
wealth of online resources.
 The only Russell Group University to offer professional training courses,
BPTC and LPC
 Graduate destinations: Azmi and Associates in Kuala Lumpur; Fox, Mandal
and Little in New Delhi; Hassan and Hassan in Pakistan; Nigerian Ports
Authority.
COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES (continued)
School of Modern Languages

Ranked number 7 for Modern Languages and Linguistics in the UK by
REF 2014.
 Teaching expertise in French, Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish
and Japanese translation degrees are also offered within this School.
 Graduate destinations: British Council, Foreign and Commonwealth
Office, Microsoft and Wolfstone Translation Service.
School of Music

Ranked number 2 in the UK for quality of research and number 13
in the UK for overall research excellence in the REF 2014.
 Cardiff if excellent study location for music as it is home to the
Welsh National Opera, BBC National Orchestra and world class
music venues such as the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.
School of Planning & Geography

Ranked number 2 for Planning in the UK by The Complete University
Guide 2016.
 Ranked number 38 for Geography in the world by the QS World
Rankings 2015.
 Graduate destinations: Chinese University of Hong Kong; Harvard
Graduate School of Design, USA; NSW State Government, Australia.
Department of Politics & International Relations


Linked with the Cardiff Law School.
World-class research and international reputation for excellence.
Research expertise includes political theory, public policy,
international law, and global ethics.
 Graduate destinations: BBC, Deloitte, European Commission, public
services.
School of Social Sciences


Ranked number 3 for Sociology in the UK by REF 2014.
Ranked top 150 in the world for Sociology and Education by the QS
World University Rankings 2015.
 Research influences policy and practice, with the School having
excellent links with Government, major private and public
organisations and the voluntary sector.
School of Welsh

Ranked number 3 for Celtic Studies in the UK by The Complete
University Guide 2016.
 Diverse body of students from all over the world, exploring issues
such as bilingualism and language planning, education and
literature under the supervision of leading experts in these areas.
COLLEGE OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES & ENGINEERING
Welsh School of Architecture


Ranked number 2 in the UK by the Guardian in 2016.
Ranked number 29 in the world for Architecture by the QS World
University Rankings 2015.
 Top in the UK for research impact, with 90% of research ranked as
‘outstanding’ in the REF 2014.
School of Chemistry


Ranked number 9 in the UK for Chemistry by REF 2014.
Recent investments in School of Chemistry facilities exceeding £10
million.
 Graduate destinations: 3M, Cadburys, GlaxoSmithKline, Intellectual
Patent Office, Solutia.
Computer Science & Informatics

Dedicated multi-platform teaching laboratories featuring state of the
art equipment and industry standard software.
 The School’s degrees are regularly reviewed and professionally
accredited by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.
 79% of the School’s research was classed as ‘internationally
excellent’ or ‘world leading’ in the REF 2014.
 Graduate destinations: American Express, Fujitsu, IBM, Thomson
Reuters.
School of Earth & Ocean Sciences

Opportunity for all students to complete field work, gaining practical
experience within a research led learning environment.
 The School offers flexibility, allowing students to switch courses
after the first year of study and students are offered the opportunity
to spend a year on placement in industry or at an overseas
university.
 Graduate destinations: Geo Services International, Parsons
Brinckerhoff, Titan Environmental Surveys.
School of Engineering

Ranked number 1 for Civil and Construction Engineering in the UK
and number 7 for general Engineering in the UK by REF 2014.
 Students are given the opportunity to increase their employability on
graduation by taking a year in Industry as part of their undergraduate
programme.
 Graduate destinations: Arup, Corus, National Grid, Ford, Airbus.
COLLEGE OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES & ENGINEERING
School of Mathematics

Undergraduate option to incorporate a paid work placement year
at organisations such as Rolls Royce, Air traffic Control and local
government.
 MSc programmes include a summer project at a financial
company, industrial company or government agency using
learned skills to solve real problems.
 Graduate destinations: BAE Systems, Deloitte,
PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP, Roche.
School of Physics & Astronomy


Ranked number 6 for Physics in the UK by REF 2014.
Students have the option to complete a one year professional
placement in order to increase their employability and gain valuable
practical experience.
 Graduate destinations: Jaguar Landrover, NASA, Rolls Royce, BAE
Systems
COLLEGE OF BIOMEDICAL & LIFE SCIENCES
School of Biosciences

Ranked number 6 in the UK for Anatomy and Physiology by The
Complete University Guide 2016 and number 150 for Biological
Sciences in the QS World Rankings 2015.
 Undergraduate programmes offer a one year placement in the
University’s laboratories or with an outside academic or commercial
partner and students also have the flexibility to switch programmes
after the first year.
 The School is involved with three of the five Cardiff University
Research Institutes: Nuroscience and Mental Health, Sustainable
Places and the European Cancer Stem Cell Institute.
School of Dentistry

Ranked number 1 for Dentistry in the UK by The Guardian 2016 and
ranked number 2 by The Complete University Guide 2016.
 Only Dental School in Wales and is based at the University Dental
Hospital on the Cardiff University Heath Park Campus.
 Programmes enable students to practice dentistry in appropriate
training environments.
School of Healthcare Sciences

Ranked number 1 for Physiotherapy in the UK by The Complete
University Guide 2016.
 Postgraduate programmes suitable for healthcare professionals
including nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, occupational therapists
and radiographers who wish to advance their knowledge and
expertise.
 Many postgraduate programmes are suitable for healthcare
professionals including nurses, midwives, physiotherapists,
occupational therapists and radiographers wishing to advance their
knowledge and expertise.
School of Medicine



Ranked number 8 in the UK for Clinical Medicine by the REF 2014.
Ranked in the top 150 for Medicine in the QS World Rankings 2015.
One of the largest Medical Schools in the UK and linked with
institutions worldwide.
 The School is based at one of the UK’s biggest hospitals.
 The UK’s largest medical school provider of postgraduate distance
learning programmes.
COLLEGE OF BIOMEDICAL & LIFE SCIENCES
School of Optometry & Vision Sciences

Ranked number 4 for Allied Health Professions in the UK by REF
2014.
 The School was founded in 1935 and is one of the largest optometric
training departments in the UK.
 In 2007 the School moved to a custom-designed £21 million building
which has outstanding facilities and state of the art equipment.
Cardiff School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical
Sciences

Ranked number 4 for Pharmacy in the UK by REF 2014 and
number 2 in the UK by The Complete University Guide.
 Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council, the Master of
Pharmacy degree provides the necessary skills to proceed
confidently into pre-registration training.
 The School offers students the experience of working closely with
pharmacy practitioners and produces graduates highly qualified for
career opportunities in hospital, community, industrial and academic
pharmacy.
Postgraduate Medical & Dental Education

The School provides postgraduate courses designed for all health
care teachers, trainers, supervisors and course leaders who wish to
improve their skills at planning, teaching and evaluating courses.
School of Psychology


Ranked number 2 for Psychology in the UK by REF 2014.
Undergraduate courses are accredited and provide a platform to
professional branches of psychology.
 Year-long work placements and paid summer internships available.
English Language Requirements
All overseas applicants whose first language is not English must have a standard level of
English that will enable them to benefit fully from their course of study.
How do students prove their level of English?
Students need to provide the results of any English language exams/tests that they have taken. We
also accept a variety of alternative types of evidence of English language competence (see overleaf
for minimum requirements, some programme requirements will be higher).
Students who have studied or worked through the medium of English may not be required to sit a
formal test, if they can provide evidence, by way of a reference letter which confirms their language
ability.
English tests or examinations must have been taken no more than two years before the intended
date of entry to the University. Where the English tests or equivalent qualifications were taken more
than two years before the proposed date of entry, an applicant must be able to demonstrate that they
have maintained or improved their English language competence and may be required to provide an
up-to-date test result.
Recognised English language qualifications
Cardiff University will accept IELTS (Academic) tests from any IELTS test centre (IELTS Life Skills
test is not accepted), Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), TOEFL iBT language test and Trinity
(ISE III) language tests undertaken in the UK.
IELTS or IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration?
IELTS for UK Visas Immigration (offered by the IELTS SELT Consortium) is not required for
Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses. Cardiff University will accept all IELTS (Academic) tests
from any IELTS test centre.
For International Foundation, Pre-sessional English and English for University Study courses an
IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration test must be taken.
We are able to consider the following tests for entry to Undergraduate and
Postgraduate courses:
Qualification
Minimum Score
GCSE/GCE 'O' level English language
C
IELTS (Academic test)
6.5
TOEFL (iBT)
90
IGCSE level English Language
C
Cambridge Proficiency (CPE)
C (185 from January 2015)
Cambridge Advanced (CAE)
C (176 from January 2015)
Pearson Test of English – Academic (PTE
– A)
62
Trinity ISE III
Pass in all 4 components
International Baccalaureate Diploma
(English language at HL or SL)
Grade 5
Please note: IGCSE English can be accepted as if syllabus 0552 or 0511 have been studied.
Syllabus 0500 or 0510 may also be accepted, please contact the International Office for more
information.
IELTS and Pearson score comparison table:
IELTS (Academic)
TOEFL iBT
Pearson Test of English (PTE A)
7.5
109
78
7.0
100
70
6.5
90
62
6.0
78
54
5.5
68
51
5.0
61
40
4.5
53
38
4.0
45
36
Please note: In some cases students may be made offers to attend a pre-sessional English course
instead of, or in addition to, an English Language qualification.
English Language Programmes - Choosing the right course
Choosing the right course for a student will depend on their current level of English language and
what they are looking to achieve from the course. Please find some examples below that may help
when you are advising students.
I want to improve my English so I can apply for a degree course at Cardiff.
We offer the English for University Study Programme: a 2, 6 or 9-month Programme (depending on
existing English language skills) to develop your academic English for undergraduate or postgraduate
study.
Full information about the English for University Study programme:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/english-languageprogrammes/english-for-university-study-programme.html
I want to improve my academic English and study an academic foundation subject
which will let me progress to an undergraduate degree course in Cardiff.
We offer the International Foundation Programme, a one-year academic programme designed to
provide students with both the English language and academic skills required for university
undergraduate degree programmes.
Available in the following subjects:
•Business
•Engineering
•Health & Life Sciences
Find out more about the International Foundation Programme:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/internationalfoundation-programme.html
I have an IELTS 6 or 6.5 and want to improve my English over the summer before I
start my course in Cardiff.
We offer the Pre-sessional Programme, an intensive summer programme in English for Academic
Purposes for students with an offer to study at Cardiff University.
Find out more information about the Pre-sessional Programmes:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/english-languageprogrammes/summer-pre-sessional-courses.html
I am a Cardiff student and want to improve my English to perform well as part of my
degree.
We offer the In-sessional English Language Support Programme, a range of language and study
programmes to support your undergraduate and postgraduate study at Cardiff.
Find out more about the In-sessional English Language Support Programme:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/english-languageprogrammes/in-sessional-english-language-support.html
Cardiff University Pre-Sessional Programmes
Our Pre-sessional programmes are full-time, intensive English language courses specifically
designed for international students with IELTS scores of 5.5, 6.0 or 6.5 who hold offers to study on
undergraduate or postgraduate courses at Cardiff University in September 2016
With successful completion of a Cardiff University pre-sessional course there is no need to retake
IELTS for entry to the majority of courses at Cardiff University.
8 Week Pre-sessional Programme
This course is for students with IELTS 6.0 with all sub-scores at 4.0
or higher, who have a course entry requirement of IELTS 6.5
Course dates: 4th July – 26th August or 11th July – 2nd September
Fee: £2,240
Full information: http://www-mc2.cardiff.ac.uk/prospective/
international/english-foundation-courses/english-language-programmes/
summer-pre-sessional-courses/eight-week-courses.html
10 Week Pre-sessional Programme
This course is for students with IELTS 6.5 with all sub-scores at 4.0
or higher, who have a course entry requirement of IELTS 7.0
Course dates: 27th June – 2nd September
Fee: £2,800
Full information: http://www-mc2.cardiff.ac.uk/prospective/
international/english-foundation-courses/english-language-programmes/
summer-pre-sessional-courses/ten-week-course.html
12 Week Pre-sessional Programme
This course is for students with IELTS 5.5 who have a score of 5.0
in Writing and all other sub-scores at 4.0 or higher, who have a
course entry requirement of IELTS 6.5.
Course dates: 4th July – 26th August or 11th July – 2nd September
Fee: £2,240
Full information: http://www-mc2.cardiff.ac.uk/prospective/international/
english-foundation-courses/english-language-programmes/summer-pre-sessionalcourses/twelve-week-course.html
English for University Study Programme
The English for University Study programme is specifically designed for students who:
• want to improve their English language skills to the level needed for English-medium university
education in the UK
• want to learn the academic study skills they need to study effectively in the UK.
The programme is designed to provide each student with the skills and language needed for a
smooth transition into academic study. We aim to develop confident and successful students who are
equipped for university study in the UK.
To cater for different student needs and levels the English for University Study Programme has entry
points in September, January and April.
To cater for different student needs and levels the English for University Study Programme has entry
points in September, January and April.
• September entry - IELTS 4.0 (with at least 4.0 in each sub score)
• January entry - IELTS 4.5 (with at least 4.0 in each sub score)
• April entry - IELTS 5.0 (with at least 4.0 in each sub score
Please see the following website for further information: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/
international/english-foundation-courses/english-language-programmes/english-for-university-studyprogramme.html
Hear from our
previous
students….
Wang Chen (Zhuhai, China)
I would recommend this programme for
anyone who wants to improve their English
for studying at university. It teaches you
more than how to get the IELTS score you
need.
Yoshiro Hikima (Tokyo, Japan)
This programme lets you experience life as a student in a
British University. We are full students of the university,
so we stay in university accommodation and we can use
the libraries and all the university facilities that students
on degree programmes have access to.
International Foundation Programme
The International Foundation Programmes at Cardiff University offer a mixture of English and
academic modules which are designed for students who would like to progress to undergraduate
study in the following areas:
Business
This Programme is a mixture of English language and Business modules,
designed for students who want to progress into Cardiff Business School.
Students who obtain a merit on the IFP (50%) can automatically progress into
Cardiff Business School.
Engineering
This Programme is a mixture of English language and Engineering modules,
designed for students who want to progress into Cardiff School of Engineering
or the School of Computer Science and Informatics.
Students can automatically progress into Cardiff School of Engineering with a
pass (40%) on the Engineering IFP or Cardiff School of Computer Science and
Informatics with a merit (50%) on the Engineering IFP.
Health & Life
Sciences
This is a mixture of English language and Science modules, designed for
students who want to progress into Cardiff School of Biosciences or Cardiff
School of Chemistry, or make an application for certain health-related
courses at Cardiff University.
Students who obtain a pass in their Science modules (40%) and a merit in their
English modules (50%) on the IFP can automatically progress into Cardiff
School of Biosciences or Cardiff School of Chemistry. Progression into other
academic schools will be considered, subject to an application and interview.
Undergraduate programmes in the Cardiff School of Law and Politics will consider Cardiff University
IFP students from any route into year 1 of their programmes, following the receipt of a UCAS
application.
A list of typical entry requirements can be found at the following weblink:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/international-foundationprogramme/entry-requirements.html
Top 5 reasons to study the Cardiff University International Foundation Programme:
1. Automatic progression to many degree schemes at Cardiff University upon successful completion.
2. Taught on Cardiff University campus, with students full members of Cardiff University with access
to all facilities.
3. Each student is allocated two personal tutors, one for the English language modules studied and
one for the academic subjects. Offering support and guidance to students.
4. Guaranteed accommodation at Cardiff University residences.
5. Comprehensive induction programme with a free coach collection service from Heathrow and
Cardiff airport, also including information events and social activities.
Tuition fees for the IFP in 2016/17 are £14,000 and are payable in three instalments.
Finances and Fees Information
Tuition fees - International Undergraduate Courses 2016/17
http://www.cf.ac.uk/fince/resources/FEES%20TEMPLATE%20Undergrads%202016-17%
2025092015.pdf
Tuition fees - International Postgraduate Taught Courses 2016/17
http://www.cf.ac.uk/fince/resources/FEES%20TEMPLATE%20Undergrads%202016-17%
2025092015.pdf
Undergraduate fixed fees
Our undergraduate tuition fees are fixed for the majority of courses which are three years in duration.
This means the price that students pay in year one will be the same in years two and three, making it
easier to plan and budget for their time in Cardiff.
Deposits for postgraduate taught programmes
International students who have been offered a place onto a postgraduate taught programme will be
asked to pay a deposit towards their tuition fees in order to secure their place.
A deposit may not be required if:
• Students are in receipt of a full tuition fee scholarship or sponsorship from Cardiff University or a
recognised sponsor or funding body;
• Students are in receipt of a full tuition fee bank or student loan;
• Students are studying on an approved progression programme at an approved partner institution.
Please see the following website for further information regarding deposits:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/funding-and-fees/deposits-for-postgraduate-taughtprogrammes
Living expenses
We have created a living expenses calculator which will help students when budgeting for their time
in Cardiff:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/campus-life/living-costs
Cardiff University Scholarships
Search for Scholarships:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/funding/international-scholarship-fund/
isfschools.html
Cardiff University Accommodation
Benefits
Cardiff’s residences are very well located, with the majority of them being a short walk or cycle from
the Cardiff University buildings.
Each residence has a network of residences staff, student wardens and security staff that provide 24
hour assistance.
All bedrooms are connected to the Cardiff University high-speed wifi network.
Costs
The cost of residences depends on several factors which include the residence you choose, the
length of stay, meal options and whether the residence chosen has ensuite bathroom facilities. To
provide some guidance, for the 2015/16 year, self-catered residences range from £85-£120 per
week.
Undergraduate Residences
All undergraduate international students are guaranteed a place in Cardiff University Residences if
they follow the procedure below:

Submit an online residences application by Friday 12 August 2016 (Firm applicants) or
Wednesday 31 August 2016 (Insurance applicants)

Receive/accept an unconditional offer to study by Wednesday 31 August 2016

Accept the online Offer of Residence within 7 days of a room being allocated

Arrive and collect the room key within the dates/times specified in the Arrival Information
provided by residences.
Please see the following website for information about the undergraduate residences available:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/accommodation/undergraduates/residences.html
Postgraduate Residences
All postgraduate international students are guaranteed a place in Cardiff University Residences if
they follow the procedure below:
- Submit an online residences application for a place and make a £200 non-refundable
pre-payment by Friday 12 August 2016
- Receive/accept an unconditional offer to study by Friday 2 September 2016
- Accept the online Offer of Residence within 7 days of a room being allocated
- Arrive and collect the room key within the dates/times specified in the Arrival Information
provided by residences.
Please see the following website for information about the postgraduate residences available:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/accommodation/postgraduates/overseas-eu/residences.html
Visa and Immigration Information
Confirmation of Acceptance of Study (CAS statements)
Cardiff University will send a CAS statement to all students who accept an unconditional offer to
study. Please note that Cardiff University is able to issue the CAS statement 6 months prior to the
course start date, but students should only submit their visa application 3 months prior to the start of
their programme.
Visa Alternative Collection Location (ACL) code
Please remember to ensure that students include the Cardiff University ACL code within their visa
application form. Students should use the ACL code on the visa application form when asked where
do they want to collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from so that they can collect this from
Cardiff University and not a local Post Office.
Cardiff University ACL code – 2HE562
Visa refusals
In the last academic year, Cardiff University saw an increase in the number of visa refusals and
received many requests for new CAS numbers because of this. The main reason for visa application
refusals was due to failure to meet the UKVI proof of finances requirement, in most cases by
submitting their visa application before the finances had been in the bank account for the required
period. Credibility interviews also resulted in visa refusals. Please see below for further information:

Proof of finances
The applicant must show that they have held the required money for a consecutive 28 day period
(finishing on the date of the closing balance) ending no more than 31 days before they submit
their visa application. The personal bank or building statements must show:
- The name of the applicant or their parent’s/legal guardian and (if their bank account is being
used)
- The account number
- The financial institution’s name and logo
- The amount of money available

Credibility interviews
The majority of students will now be interviewed prior to the visa being granted. The interviews
are intended to form part of the checks on whether an applicant is a genuine student and as well
as checking that the level of English is at the required level, may include questions concerning:
- Why did you choose Cardiff University?
- What do you know about Cardiff?
- What modules will you study?
- How will this programme of study help your career plans?
Full information regarding visa and immigration requirements can be found at the following website:
http://www-mc2.cardiff.ac.uk/prospective/international/coming-to-cardiff/before-you-arrive/visas-andimmigration
Coming to Cardiff University
You should find the following website useful when providing students with advice about preparing to
come to Cardiff and travelling to the UK: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/comingto-cardiff/before-you-arrive.html
Cardiff University produces a Pre-departure Guide each year which will help students with any
questions that they may have about coming to Cardiff. A link to this Guide can be found at the
website above.
We also provide a free coach collection service from Heathrow and Cardiff airports for two days in
September, so please encourage your students to register with this service wherever possible. We
will be able to meet the students in the arrivals hall and will ensure that they are transported to their
accommodation with their luggage.
Further information about this service can be found here:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/coming-to-cardiff/before-you-arrive/coachcollection-service.html
There is also a great induction programme for international students which is designed to help them
settle in to University life and also help with what can be a difficult move to a new country. Activities
include an international student party, campus tours and information fair.
Information about the Cardiff University Induction Programme can be found here: http://
www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/coming-to-cardiff/when-you-arrive/inductionprogramme-and-enrolment.html
Ranked 1st in the UK for University orientation programme!
International Student Barometer 2014/15
Useful Links
Agent website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/agent-portal.html
International student website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/
Course finder:
http://courses.cardiff.ac.uk/index.html
English Language Programmes:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/english-languageprogrammes.html
International Foundation Programme:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/english-foundation-courses/internationalfoundation-programme.html
International scholarships:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/funding/international-scholarship-fund.html
Tuition fees:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/funding/tuition-fees.html
Living expenses:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/international/funding/living-expenses.html
Thank you for taking the time to look at the information included
in this Agent Handbook
If you have any questions about this information, or would like any
further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at the email
address below
[email protected]
Any feedback you would like to provide will also be gladly received.
All information included is correct at the time of publishing. March 2016