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Admissions criteria for postgraduate study

Close up of a student sitting in a lecture hall

We welcome applications from all students with the potential to succeed at this university.

We are seeking to admit students whose potential to benefit from our research-led learning and teaching can be demonstrated through a range of qualifications and achievements.

You will need to satisfy to the relevant Admissions Tutor that you have met, or will meet, the necessary academic and non-academic criteria required for the programme of study. Able applicants who have not followed a focused programme of study will also be considered. Applications are considered on their individual merits.

Our online course finder and postgraduate prospectus will give you a broad overview of the entry requirements for particular degree programmes. However, we welcome applications from those offering alternative qualifications. We will also consider applications from those with combinations of qualifications and those with other relevant life/work experience.

European and International students

Download our list of equivalent qualifications for European or International students to see if your qualification meets our entry criteria. This is a general guide, some programmes may have more detailed or specific entry requirements which will be reflected in your offer.

Postgraduate Taught Qualification Equivalences

Check if your qualification meets our entry criteria.

If you cannot see your qualification, contact us for further guidance:

Admissions

English language requirements

All overseas applicants whose first language is not English must have a standard of written and spoken English that will enable them to benefit fully from their course of study. See our English language requirements for further information.

Equality and diversity

Whether you’re thinking about coming to Cardiff University or you’re already a student here, we work to deliver a comprehensive range of services dedicated to helping students make the most of student life. We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all of our practices and activities, including those relating to student recruitment, selection and admission.

We aim to establish an inclusive culture which ensures equality of opportunity on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race (including ethnic or national origin, colour or nationality), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, and sexual orientation.

To find out more, please see our equality and diversity pages.

Deferred entry

You usually have a choice to apply for deferred entry to most of our postgraduate programmes.

If you did not apply for a deferred entry at the time you made your application, but wish to defer subsequently, you need to contact the Admissions Team explaining the circumstances surrounding your intention to defer.

For funded studentships the School may not allow deferred entry but may be flexible with the start date.