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How to apply for an undergraduate course

Find out everything you need to know about applying to study an undergraduate course at Cardiff University.

All students applying to study our full-time undergraduate degree programmes should apply through UCAS.

The application process is different for those considering part-time study or one of our university preperation programmes for international students.

Application process

Follow the steps below to find out how and when to apply for our full-time undergraduate courses and what to expect after you have applied:

  1. Choose what you want to study. Still undecided? Search our courses.
  2. Check the UCAS deadline for your course.
  3. Check the entry requirements on our course pages.
  4. Apply through UCAS.
  5. Wait for us to decide: Learn what happens after you apply.
  6. Reply to your university offers.
  7. Check what your exam results mean.
  8. Confirm your university place.

International applicants

If you're an international student applying to study with us, you may also need to consider:

How to apply through UCAS

Before you make your online application, you will need to register with UCAS.

You don't need to complete the application form all at once, you can save your application and return to it later.

UCAS provides lots of useful advice, including how to fill out your application form, write a personal statement and gather references.

The UCAS code for Cardiff University is C15. The code for your chosen course can be found at the top of our course pages.

You can apply to up to five courses if you apply before the application deadlines. You don't have to give an order of preference until you've received your offers.

Start your UCAS application

UCAS application deadlines

You can submit your UCAS application from the beginning of September in the year prior to entry. You should apply as early as possible as courses may close if they become full.

  • The normal closing date for UK applications is around 31 January
  • The normal closing date for international applications is around 30 June
  • Clinical programmes have earlier application deadlines. For Medicine (UCAS codes: A101 and A104) and Dentistry (UCAS code: A200) the closing date is around 15 October in the year prior to entry.

Late applications: you may apply until the end of June but your application will be marked 'late' and admissions tutors will consider it at their discretion.

Have a look at our key dates page to ensure you don't miss anything.

Preliminary Year programmes

On successful completion of one of our preliminary courses, you can progress to one of our degree-level courses. You should apply to study a preliminary year course through UCAS.

Deferred applications

Most academic schools will consider deferred entry applications. You must choose the correct entry year on your UCAS form at the point of application.

Applying after a break in studying

If you’re aged 21 or over when you begin your studies, you’re classed as a mature student. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time programmes.

We accept a variety of qualifications and relevant professional experience. Find further guidance about studying as a mature student.

Applicants with disabilities or specific needs

If you have a disability or a specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia) make sure you note this on your UCAS form so that we are made aware of your needs in advance of arrival.

To find out more please read our advice for disabled applicants.

Non-UCAS applications

University preparation programmes

A number of preparation courses are available to international students who do not have the appropriate qualifications to enter the first year of a degree scheme.

Find out more about our International Foundation Programmes at the Cardiff University International Study Centre. On successful completion, you can progress to one of our degree-level courses.

Find out how to apply for one of these programmes or apply directly by using the online application form.

Part-time and non-degree programmes

If you are interested in a part-time course or a full-time undergraduate programme which does not lead to a degree qualification, you'll need to apply directly to the university.

Help with your application

If you have any queries or need assistance with your application, please contact our Admissions team using our online form.

Admissions team

When completing the form please provide as much information as possible to help us to direct your enquiry.

International students can also get help to complete an application from our representatives and agents in your country.

Next steps

Find out what happens after you have applied.

Look at our admissions policies if you'd like more detailed information about the admissions process.