Quick Answer: Cardiff University offers several scholarships for Filipino students in 2026, including the Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship (up to £10,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£5,000), and subject-specific awards. Philippines students can also apply for Commonwealth Scholarships and external funding from organizations like DOST-SEI and CHED.

Introduction

Cardiff University, ranked 166th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, stands as one of the UK's leading research-intensive institutions and a member of the prestigious Russell Group. For Filipino students aspiring to study in Wales, Cardiff presents exceptional opportunities through its comprehensive scholarship program designed specifically for international students.

With tuition fees for international students ranging from £23,450 to £28,200 annually for undergraduate programs and £24,450 to £31,200 for postgraduate courses, securing financial support is crucial for many Philippines students. This guide explores all available Cardiff University scholarships and funding opportunities specifically accessible to Filipino students in 2026.

Cardiff University Scholarships for Philippines Students

Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship

The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship represents Cardiff University's flagship funding opportunity for international students, including those from the Philippines. This merit-based scholarship offers substantial financial support for master's degree programs.

Key Details:

• Award Amount: Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees
• Eligibility: Open to Philippines students applying for any taught master's program
• Application Deadline: Typically March 31, 2026
• Requirements: Academic excellence (typically equivalent to UK 2:1 honors degree)
• Selection Criteria: Academic merit, personal statement, and potential contribution to the university community

Filipino students pursuing programs in Cardiff's renowned schools of Engineering, Business, Medicine, and Journalism have particularly strong chances due to the university's emphasis on these disciplines.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

This competitive scholarship targets high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential and leadership qualities.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Award Amount: £5,000 tuition fee reduction
• Duration: One academic year (renewable for multi-year programs based on performance)
• Eligibility: First-year international students from Philippines
• Academic Requirement: Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.5/4.0 or 85%
• Application Process: Automatic consideration upon admission application

School-Specific Scholarships

Cardiff Business School Scholarships

• MBA Excellence Scholarship: £15,000 for exceptional MBA candidates from Philippines
• International Masters Scholarship: £8,000 for business master's programs
• Requirements: Professional experience and GMAT/GRE scores for MBA programs

School of Engineering Scholarships

• Engineering Excellence Award: £7,500 for engineering master's programs
• STEM Innovation Scholarship: £5,000 for technology-focused courses
• Priority Fields: Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, and Civil Engineering

School of Medicine Scholarships

• Medical Sciences International Scholarship: £6,000 for health-related programs
• Research Excellence Award: Up to £12,000 for PhD candidates in medical research

External Scholarships for Filipino Students

Commonwealth Scholarships

Filipino students can access Commonwealth Scholarships through the UK government's development partnership with the Philippines.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance (£1,347 in 2026)
• Travel costs to and from the UK
• Thesis grant and study travel grant

Eligibility Requirements:

• Philippines citizenship
• Bachelor's degree with first-class honors or equivalent
• Two years' work experience in relevant field
• Commitment to return to Philippines post-graduation

Philippines Government Scholarships

DOST-SEI Scholarships

The Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute offers funding for STEM programs at Cardiff University.

• Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses
• Requirement: Return service obligation in Philippines
• Priority Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science

CHED International Graduate Scholarships

The Commission on Higher Education provides support for faculty members pursuing advanced degrees.

• Eligible Applicants: University faculty and researchers from Philippines
• Coverage: Tuition fees and research allowances
• Commitment: Teaching service in Philippines universities

Application Process and Timeline

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. University Application (September 2025 - June 2026)

   • Submit Cardiff University application through UCAS (undergraduate) or direct application (postgraduate)
   • Include academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, and personal statement
   • IELTS requirement: Overall 6.5 with no component below 6.0

2. Scholarship Application (October 2025 - March 2026)

   • Complete scholarship-specific applications where required
   • Submit supporting documents: recommendation letters, research proposals, portfolio
   • Some scholarships require separate applications while others provide automatic consideration

3. Document Preparation

   • Academic credentials evaluation through UK NARIC
   • Certified English translations of Philippines documents
   • Financial statements demonstrating ability to cover remaining costs

English Language Requirements

Filipino students must demonstrate English proficiency through:

• IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.5 overall (6.0 in each component)
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90 overall with specific component scores
• PTE Academic: Minimum 62 overall

Cardiff University offers pre-sessional English courses for students who need to improve their language skills before starting their degree programs.

Living Costs and Additional Support

Estimated Living Expenses in Cardiff (2026)

• Accommodation: £400-£700 per month (university halls vs. private housing)
• Food and Groceries: £200-£300 per month
• Transportation: £60-£100 per month (student bus pass available)
• Books and Supplies: £500-£800 per academic year
• Personal Expenses: £200-£400 per month

Total Monthly Living Costs: £860-£1,500 depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices

Additional Support Services

Philippines Student Community

Cardiff University hosts an active Filipino student society that provides:

• Cultural events and celebrations
• Academic support networks
• Career guidance and networking opportunities
• Integration support for new arrivals

Financial Hardship Support

• Emergency hardship funds for unexpected financial difficulties
• Part-time work opportunities on campus (20 hours per week maximum)
• Financial counseling and budgeting assistance

Career Prospects and Return on Investment

Graduate Employment Outcomes

Cardiff University graduates from Philippines achieve strong employment outcomes:

• Employment Rate: 94% of international graduates employed within six months
• Average Starting Salary: £28,000-£35,000 for master's graduates
• Popular Industries: Finance, Engineering, Healthcare, Education, Technology

Post-Study Work Opportunities

Filipino graduates can benefit from the UK's Graduate Route visa:

• Duration: Two years for bachelor's/master's graduates, three years for PhD graduates
• Work Rights: Full-time employment without sponsorship requirements
• Pathway: Opportunity to transition to skilled worker visa

Many successful Cardiff alumni from Philippines have established careers in both UK and international markets, particularly in multinational corporations with operations in Southeast Asia.

Tips for Successful Applications

Academic Excellence

Filipino students should emphasize their academic achievements within the Philippines education system. Cardiff University admissions teams understand the competitive nature of Philippines higher education and value students from recognized institutions like University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University.

Personal Statement Strategies

• Connect your Philippines background to your chosen field of study
• Highlight community service and leadership experience common in Filipino culture
• Demonstrate understanding of how your Cardiff education will benefit Philippines development
• Show cultural adaptability while maintaining pride in Filipino heritage

Research Opportunities

Cardiff University's research excellence, particularly in areas relevant to Philippines development such as renewable energy, public health, and sustainable development, provides excellent opportunities for Filipino students to contribute meaningfully while advancing their careers.

When exploring scholarship opportunities, students should also consider Cardiff's partnerships with other institutions where they can explore UK universities offering similar support for international students.

Conclusion

Cardiff University presents exceptional scholarship opportunities for Filipino students in 2026, with funding options ranging from partial tuition support to full Commonwealth Scholarships. The combination of academic excellence, vibrant student community, and strong career prospects makes Cardiff an attractive destination for Philippines students seeking world-class education with substantial financial support.

Key Statistics

📊 Cardiff University ranks 166th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, making it a top-tier choice for Filipino students

💰 International tuition fees range from £23,450-£28,200 for undergraduate and £24,450-£31,200 for postgraduate programs in 2026

🎓 94% of Cardiff's international graduates find employment within six months of graduation with average starting salaries of £28,000-£35,000

📈 The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship offers up to £10,000 in funding, covering nearly 40% of annual tuition fees for many programs

🌟 Over 300 Filipino students currently study at Cardiff University, forming one of the largest Southeast Asian student communities

💸 Monthly living costs in Cardiff range from £860-£1,500, significantly lower than London while maintaining high quality of life

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

To apply for Cardiff University scholarships as a Filipino student, first submit your university application through UCAS (undergraduate) or direct application (postgraduate). Most scholarships like the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship provide automatic consideration upon admission application. For specific scholarships like the Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship, you'll need to complete separate applications by March 31, 2026. Ensure you meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall) and have all academic documents certified and translated if necessary.

What are the main Cardiff University scholarships available for Philippines students?

The main Cardiff University scholarships for Filipino students include the Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship (up to £10,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£5,000), MBA Excellence Scholarship (£15,000), and Engineering Excellence Award (£7,500). Additionally, school-specific scholarships are available in Business, Medicine, and Engineering. Filipino students can also access Commonwealth Scholarships offering full funding plus living expenses, and Philippines government scholarships through DOST-SEI and CHED.

How much does it cost to study at Cardiff University for Filipino students?

For Filipino students in 2026, Cardiff University's international tuition fees range from £23,450-£28,200 annually for undergraduate programs and £24,450-£31,200 for postgraduate programs. Living costs in Cardiff range from £860-£1,500 per month, including accommodation (£400-£700), food (£200-£300), transportation (£60-£100), and personal expenses (£200-£400). The total annual cost typically ranges from £35,000-£50,000, but scholarships can significantly reduce this burden.

What GPA do I need for Cardiff University scholarships from Philippines?

For Cardiff University scholarships, Filipino students typically need a minimum GPA equivalent to 3.5/4.0 (approximately 85%) for the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship. The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship requires academic excellence equivalent to UK 2:1 honors (typically 3.3/4.0 or 82-85%). Commonwealth Scholarships require first-class honors equivalent (3.7/4.0 or 90%+). Different scholarships have varying requirements, but maintaining strong academic performance throughout your Philippines education is essential for competitive applications.

Can Filipino students work while studying at Cardiff University?

Yes, Filipino students can work part-time while studying at Cardiff University under their student visa conditions. International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Cardiff offers on-campus employment opportunities, and the city provides various part-time jobs suitable for students. After graduation, Filipino students can apply for the Graduate Route visa, allowing them to work full-time in the UK for two years (three years for PhD graduates) without requiring employer sponsorship.

What support does Cardiff University provide for Filipino students?

Cardiff University provides extensive support for Filipino students through dedicated international student services, including visa guidance, academic support, and integration programs. The university hosts an active Filipino student society organizing cultural events and providing peer support networks. Additional services include financial counseling, emergency hardship funds, pre-sessional English courses, career guidance, and mental health support. The International Student Support team specifically assists with practical matters like accommodation, banking, and local registration requirements for new arrivals from the Philippines.

Key Takeaways

✅ Cardiff University offers multiple scholarships for Filipino students, with awards ranging from £5,000 to full funding through Commonwealth Scholarships

✅ The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship (up to £10,000) and Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£5,000) are the most accessible options for Philippines students

✅ Filipino students can combine university scholarships with external funding from Philippines government sources like DOST-SEI and CHED

✅ Cardiff University ranks 166th globally and maintains a 94% graduate employment rate, ensuring strong career prospects for Filipino graduates

✅ Living costs in Cardiff (£860-£1,500 monthly) are significantly lower than London while providing access to high-quality education and research opportunities

✅ Early application is crucial, with scholarship deadlines typically falling between November 2025 and March 2026 for 2026 entry