English Language Requirements for EU Students

If English is not your first language you will be asked to demonstrate that your level of English is sufficient to meet the course requirements. You can do this by providing results of any English language exams/tests that you have taken.

The English language qualifications recognised by the University for entry and the required scores are listed below (please note that we have stated the minimum admission requirements, for some courses the admissions tutors may ask for higher grades) but The University also accepts a variety of alternative types of evidence of English language competence.

Recognised English language qualification requirements for standard Postgraduate courses:

Cardiff University’s preferred test of English language competence is IELTS.

The TOEFL and TOEFL iBT scores are comparable to the following IELTS scores:

If you do not have any English language test results yet, you can send these in later. But please indicate on the application form when you took, or expect to take the English language test, and when you expect to receive your test results. You can then send in your test results once you have them. In this case (assuming your academic qualifications are accepted), your offer will be conditional upon the University receiving the test results.

Please note that in some cases students may be made offers to attend pre-sessional English courses instead of or in addition to an English Language qualification.

Alternative types of evidence of English language competence

The University also accepts other evidence that your level of English is sufficient to meet the course requirements. This includes:

• An alternative English language qualification at an equivalent level to those specified above which tests reading, writing, speaking and listening competence;
• Other qualifications pursued in the medium of English that can be considered as appropriate preparation for the programme applied for, e.g. a Bachelors or Master degree. The qualification should have been completed no more than three academic years prior to the proposed start date of the course or programme. If more than three academic years have elapsed, a reference may be accepted as proof of maintained capability in your English language competence.
• References can be used as supporting evidence of English language competence. The person giving the reference must be able to comment in detail and with authority about your English language competence, including written and spoken communication, gained through professional employment or in another skilled role.
• In some cases students may be made offers to attend pre-sessional English courses instead of or in addition to an English Language qualification.

English Language Programmes at Cardiff University

If you require extra English language tuition before or during your course, this can be arranged through the University's own on-campus English language teaching centre.