Period of Relevance for Previous Academic Qualifications Policy

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds with the potential and determination to succeed on our programmes.

As part of the admissions process, potential to succeed on a programme of study can be demonstrated through academic qualifications, professional experience, and other forms of learning and development which will be considered in line with the published entry requirements for the proposed programme of study.

1. Policy

1.1. To ensure applicants have the ability to succeed on their proposed programme of study, Cardiff University will, unless otherwise stated in programme entry requirements, consider academic qualifications to be relevant if obtained within five years of the programme’s start date. This applies to undergraduate, postgraduate taught, and postgraduate research programmes, provided the qualifications are not supported by additional learning or experience as outlined above.

1.2. Academic qualifications awarded outside of the relevant period are often still suitable for entry if:

• there haven’t been significant changes to the field of study;
• if the proposed programme of study is designed for applicants who may not have a background in that subject area
• if the applicant has acquired or maintained relevant skills and knowledge since gaining the academic qualification.

Applications in these categories will be considered by the academic school on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all prior learning and experience, along with details of why an applicant wishes to take the proposed programme of study. We therefore reserve the right to request additional evidence to support consideration of an application with academic qualifications outside of the relevant period in order to make an academic decision on the application.

1.3. This policy refers to academic entry requirements only. There is a separate policy for qualifications accepted as evidence of English Language.

2. Contact details

2.1. For further information about this policy please contact the Admissions Support Team:

Email: admissions-advice@cardiff.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)29 20879999

Post: Admissions Support Team
Cardiff University
sbarc | spark
Maindy Road
Cardiff
CF24 4HQ