Accommodation for International Students
Although Cardiff is a capital city with a global reputation, you’ll find it friendly and compact so it’s easy to get around. We have a thriving student population and many different options when it comes to choosing where to live.
Visit our frequently asked accommodation questions page for international students.
Cardiff Met halls of residence
Cardiff Met owns and operates halls of residence at two locations, conveniently placed to accommodate students studying on either of our campuses. Rooms at Plas Gwyn halls are allocated to students studying at the Llandaff campus and rooms at Cyncoed halls are mainly allocated to students studying at the Cyncoed campus.
There are a variety of options across both campuses from ensuite or shared facility rooms, to self-catered or catered (at Cyncoed campus only). Rooms are categorised as Classic, Classic Plus and Premium, with prices reflecting the relevant standard and facilities available.
Find out more about the different categories of rooms, costs and how to apply.
Private halls of residence
We also provide private ensuite rooms to students through agreements with private halls located near our campuses or in the city centre. A full list of private halls can be found on our website. You apply for privately owned halls in the same way as University owned accommodation by selecting within your preferences. The contract however will be with the private halls of residence.
Private houses and flats
Cardiff is a popular destination for students and we continue to see high demand for university accommodation in or near the city. As costs can fluctuate in line with demand, we would encourage you to factor this into your financial planning before you arrive.
You should also be aware that it has become increasingly common for landlords to ask for a UK-based guarantor or alternatively, for students to pay their rent up to 6 months in advance in addition to their deposit (usually equivalent to one month's rent). If you are planning on renting in the private sector, you should also prepare for this up front cost before you arrive.
Be aware: We would strongly recommend that you do not secure accommodation advertised through Facebook or Gumtree. Unfortunately, as in many places across the UK, there have been incidents of students being targeted by fraudsters through these platforms and paying sums of money through bank transfer for properties that do not exist. It is important to also note that housing agents or landlords are not allowed to charge 'non-refundable agency fees' including finders fees, fees to secure a property or fees for signing a contract.
Whilst we would advise you start looking for accommodation before you arrive to research availability and costs, we would still recommend that you do not formally sign a contact/tenancy agreement until you have viewed the property in person.