International
Cardiff is a global, ambitious and innovative university with a bold and strategic vision located in a beautiful and thriving capital city.
With over 7,000 international students from more than 100 countries, our campus offers a diverse and truly international environment attracting the best students and staff from around the world.
We develop and support a culture which encourages international exchanges and collaborations, with over 17% of our undergraduate students spending time abroad. Our strategic partners and links with over 200 institutions worldwide highlight our global reputation and international outlook.
International partners
Our partnerships span more than 35 countries including 40 across China, nine in Malaysia and over 20 in the US.
If you are interested in finding out more about our international activities, or forming a partnership with us, please contact the International Office.
International Office
Xiamen University
Cardiff was the first city in the UK to twin with a city in China when it partnered with Xiamen over thirty years ago.
Our strategic partnership with Xiamen University supports joint academic programmes, a PHD scholarship scheme and student and staff exchanges. We collaborate closely on fields of mutual interest, including creating more sustainable cities through our Research Centre for Liveable and Ecological Cities and catalysis research.
We share Cardiff’s international ambition and look forward to collaborating on new and innovative projects that can deliver benefits for both China and Wales.
International research
Ranked by REF as 5th in the UK for quality and 2nd for impact, our collaborative research with academic partners across the world makes a real difference.
From our Global Challenges Research Fund project exploring the resilience of groundwater supply systems in Nigeria to our pioneering model of nuclear waste disposal, backed by the European Commission, we take our global responsibilities seriously.
We attract the highest calibre of academics and researchers from around the world, enhancing the learning experience for students and bringing a global perspective to our research.
Study abroad
Giving all of our students the opportunity to gain experience overseas is one of our priorities. Our links with over 300 institutions worldwide mean that over 17% of our students study, work or volunteer abroad for at least a month during their time with us.
Our commitment to students gaining cultural awareness and enhancing their employability through time overseas continues to be a key target in the University's Strategy - The Way Forward.
International scholarships and funding
Chevening Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships are the UK government's global scholarship programme aimed at developing global leaders. Funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations, including Cardiff University, the programme provides awards to outstanding scholars from around the world to study postgraduate courses at universities in the UK. In 2016, Cardiff welcomed 44 Chevening scholars.
Fulbright Commission
The Fulbright Commission gives two annual awards, allowing US citizens to come here and teach, lecture, conduct research, or pursue a Master's degree programme.
Together with Bangor University and Aberystwyth University, we host the Fulbright Wales Summer Institute, a six week cultural and academic programme for US students, focusing on the theme of Contemporary Wales: Industry, Politics, Culture and Change.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions - Individual Fellowships
The goal of the Individual Fellowships is to enhance the creative and innovative potential of experienced researchers who wish to develop new skills through advanced training and international and intersectoral mobility.
Individual Fellowships provide opportunities to acquire and transfer new knowledge and to work on research and innovation in a European context (EU Member States and Associated Countries) or outside Europe. The scheme particularly supports the return and reintegration of researchers from outside Europe who have previously worked here. It also develops or helps to restart the careers of researchers who show great potential, based on their experience.
European and International research team
Marshall Scholarships
Marshall Scholarships finance young, highly-able Americans, allowing them to study for a Master's or research degree here.
Santander Universities
Santander Universities have donated £535,343 since 2011, which has been used to fund awards for outstanding projects and students and help our entrepreneurs. Their funding gives our students the possibility to travel abroad to continue their studies.
Keep up to date with our activities and research around the world.