Quick Answer: Cardiff Metropolitan University offers several scholarships for Ghanaian students in 2026, including the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £3,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£2,500), and country-specific awards. Early application by March 2026 is essential for September intake.

Introduction

Cardiff Metropolitan University has become an increasingly popular destination for Ghanaian students seeking quality higher education in the UK. Located in Wales' vibrant capital city, Cardiff Met consistently ranks among the top modern universities in the UK and holds a strong reputation for employability, with 95% of graduates in employment or further study within six months of graduation.

For Ghanaian students planning their 2026-2027 academic journey, understanding available scholarship opportunities at Cardiff Met is crucial for making studying in the UK financially viable. This comprehensive guide covers all scholarship options, application processes, and specific requirements for students from Ghana.

Cardiff Metropolitan University Scholarships Overview

International Excellence Scholarship

The International Excellence Scholarship is Cardiff Met's flagship award for outstanding international students, including those from Ghana. This merit-based scholarship offers:

• Award Amount: £1,000 to £3,000 per year
• Duration: Full duration of undergraduate or postgraduate study
• Eligibility: Minimum 65% in final year of secondary education or equivalent
• Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 for September 2026 intake

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

This prestigious scholarship recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential:

• Award Amount: £2,500 per year
• Duration: Full course duration
• Eligibility: Exceptional academic record (70% minimum) and demonstrated leadership experience
• Selection: Automatic consideration upon university application

Subject-Specific Scholarships

Cardiff Met offers targeted scholarships for specific academic areas popular among Ghanaian students:

Business and Management Scholarships

• Cardiff Business School Excellence Award: £2,000 annually
• MBA Leadership Scholarship: £5,000 (for MBA programs)

Engineering and Technology Scholarships

• STEM Excellence Scholarship: £2,500 per year
• Engineering Innovation Award: £1,500 annually

Health Sciences Scholarships

• Healthcare Professional Development Fund: £2,000
• Nursing Excellence Scholarship: £1,800 per year

Ghana-Specific Scholarship Opportunities

Commonwealth Scholarships

Ghanaian students can access Commonwealth Scholarships for postgraduate study at Cardiff Met:

• Master's Programs: Full tuition plus £1,347 monthly stipend
• PhD Programs: Full funding including research costs
• Application Period: Opens October 2025 for 2026 intake

British Council GREAT Scholarships

In partnership with the British Council, Cardiff Met participates in the GREAT Scholarships scheme:

• Award Amount: £10,000 towards tuition fees
• Eligibility: Ghanaian nationals pursuing postgraduate study
• Fields: Business, Engineering, Law, and Creative Arts

Application Process for Ghanaian Students

Step 1: University Application

Before applying for scholarships, secure your place at Cardiff Met:

1. Submit application through UCAS (undergraduate) or direct application (postgraduate)
2. Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.0 overall, 5.5 minimum in each band)
3. Provide academic transcripts from WAEC, SSSCE, or equivalent qualifications
4. Submit personal statement highlighting academic achievements and career goals

Step 2: Scholarship Application

Most Cardiff Met scholarships require separate applications:

1. Complete online scholarship application form
2. Submit academic transcripts and certificates
3. Provide two academic references
4. Write scholarship essay (500-750 words) demonstrating financial need and academic merit
5. Include evidence of extracurricular activities and leadership experience

Step 3: Supporting Documents for Ghana Students

• Certified copies of WAEC/SSSCE results
• University admission letter from Cardiff Met
• Financial statements showing family income
• Passport copy and visa documentation
• English proficiency test results

Tuition Fees and Living Costs Context

Understanding the financial landscape helps contextualize scholarship benefits:

Tuition Fees 2026-2027

• Undergraduate Programs: £13,500-£15,500 per year
• Postgraduate Taught: £14,500-£16,500 per year
• Postgraduate Research: £15,500-£17,500 per year

Living Costs in Cardiff

• Accommodation: £400-£600 per month
• Food and Personal Expenses: £300-£450 per month
• Transportation: £50-£80 per month
• Total Annual Living Costs: £9,000-£13,560

Why Cardiff Met Appeals to Ghanaian Students

Academic Excellence

Cardiff Met ranks 6th in the UK for student satisfaction and holds Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. The university's strong industry connections mean 98% of graduates are in employment within 15 months of graduation.

Cultural Diversity

With over 1,000 international students from 140+ countries, Cardiff Met provides a welcoming environment for Ghanaian students. The active African Caribbean Society and Ghana Students Association offer cultural support and networking opportunities.

Career Support

The university's award-winning careers service provides:

• Dedicated international student advisors
• Work placement opportunities
• Graduate visa pathway support
• Industry networking events

When exploring your options, you can browse all universities to compare Cardiff Met's offerings with other UK institutions that welcome Ghanaian students.

Alternative Funding Sources

External Scholarships for Ghanaian Students

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Selected universities (not Cardiff Met directly)
• Chevening Scholarships: Full funding for Master's programs
• Ghana Education Trust Fund: Partial funding for overseas study
• Corporate Scholarships: MTN, Vodafone Ghana, and other major employers

Part-time Work Opportunities

International students can work up to 20 hours weekly during term time:

• Average Hourly Rate: £9.50-£12.00
• Potential Monthly Earnings: £760-£960
• Popular Jobs: Retail, hospitality, campus roles, tutoring

Tips for Successful Applications

Academic Preparation

• Maintain strong grades in final year of secondary education
• Take advanced level subjects relevant to intended program
• Participate in academic competitions and olympiads

Scholarship Essay Writing

• Highlight specific challenges faced as Ghanaian student
• Demonstrate knowledge of Cardiff Met's programs and values
• Connect career goals to Ghana's development needs
• Show leadership experience in school or community

Timeline Planning

• October 2025: Begin scholarship research and application preparation
• December 2025: Submit university applications
• January-March 2026: Complete scholarship applications
• April-June 2026: Scholarship decisions announced
• July-August 2026: Visa applications and final preparations

Conclusion

Cardiff Metropolitan University scholarships provide valuable financial support for Ghanaian students pursuing UK higher education in 2026. With awards ranging from £1,000 to £10,000 annually, these opportunities can significantly reduce the cost burden of international study. Early application and thorough preparation are key to securing funding. Start your scholarship journey today by researching specific program requirements and preparing strong application materials that highlight your academic achievements and potential contributions to Cardiff Met's diverse community.

Key Statistics

📊 Cardiff Met ranks 6th in UK for student satisfaction with 95% graduate employment rate within 6 months

💰 International scholarships at Cardiff Met range from £1,000 to £10,000 annually for 2026 intake

🎓 Over 1,000 international students from 140+ countries create diverse campus environment

📈 98% of Cardiff Met graduates are in employment within 15 months of graduation

💸 Total annual costs for Ghanaian students range £22,500-£29,060 including tuition and living expenses

🏆 Cardiff Met holds Silver rating in Teaching Excellence Framework and award-winning careers service

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Cardiff Metropolitan University scholarships as a Ghanaian student?

First, submit your university application through UCAS (undergraduate) or directly (postgraduate). Then complete separate scholarship applications online, typically requiring academic transcripts, personal statement, and references. Applications for 2026 intake open October 2025 with most deadlines in March 2026. You'll need WAEC/SSSCE certificates, IELTS results, and proof of English proficiency.

What are the main scholarship opportunities at Cardiff Met for students from Ghana?

Major scholarships include the International Excellence Scholarship (£1,000-£3,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£2,500), subject-specific awards like Business School Excellence (£2,000), and external options like GREAT Scholarships (£10,000) and Commonwealth Scholarships (full funding). Each has different eligibility criteria and application processes.

How much does it cost to study at Cardiff Metropolitan University in 2026?

Tuition fees for 2026-2027 range from £13,500-£15,500 for undergraduate programs and £14,500-£17,500 for postgraduate programs. Living costs in Cardiff are approximately £9,000-£13,560 annually, making total costs £22,500-£29,060 per year before scholarships.

What WAEC grades do I need for Cardiff Met scholarships?

Most Cardiff Met scholarships require minimum 65% in your final year of secondary education, equivalent to good grades in 5 WAEC subjects including English and Mathematics. The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship requires 70% minimum. Some subject-specific scholarships may have additional requirements related to relevant subjects.

Can I work while studying at Cardiff Met with a student visa?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Average hourly rates are £9.50-£12.00, potentially earning £760-£960 monthly. Popular jobs include retail, hospitality, campus roles, and tutoring positions.

When should I apply for Cardiff Met scholarships for 2026 intake?

Begin scholarship research in October 2025, submit university applications by December 2025, and complete scholarship applications between January-March 2026. Most scholarship deadlines are March 31, 2026, with some external scholarships like Commonwealth having earlier deadlines in December 2025. Early application significantly improves your chances of success.

Key Takeaways

✅ Cardiff Met offers multiple scholarship options for Ghanaian students ranging from £1,000 to full funding

✅ Early application by March 2026 is crucial for securing scholarships for September 2026 intake

✅ Minimum 65% WAEC grades required for most scholarships, with 70% needed for premium awards

✅ External scholarships like Commonwealth and GREAT provide additional funding opportunities up to £10,000

✅ Total study costs of £22,500-£29,060 annually can be significantly reduced through scholarships and part-time work

✅ Cardiff Met's 95% graduate employment rate and diverse international community make it attractive for Ghanaian students