Wales is a proud nation. We’re both part of the United Kingdom and a country in our own right, with a devolved government and our own parliament, the Senedd, that passes our own laws.

Around 3.1 million people live here, including more than 149,000 students. Here are ten reasons why you should join us.

1. We have eight excellent universities, and four internationally recruiting colleges in fantastic locations, offering undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications that are respected all over the world, as well as A-levels, vocational courses, and diplomas.

2. Wales is a friendly and cosmopolitan country, and our universities and collees are international in outlook – 134 nationalities are represented in our student body.

3. You can study an extraordinary range of subjects, from Architecture to Zoology. Many departments are internationally famous – such as Ocean Sciences at Bangor, Biosciences at Cardiff University, Photography at Cardiff and Vale College and Architectural and Stained Glass at University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

4. The cost of living in Wales is low. Accommodation, shopping and going out are more affordable than in many other parts of the United Kingdom.

5. Every one of our universities has an active student union to welcome you, look after your welfare and provide plenty of options for socialising. Our colleges offer plenty of extra-curricular activities from sports clubs and academies, to creative, performance, and cultural groups.

Walking in the Brecon Beacons

6. You’ll be studying in a nation with a long history of innovation. Welsh inventions include the hydrogen fuel cell, the ball bearing and even the equals sign (‘=’). The tradition continues with ground-breaking research at our universities.

7. We have an amazing range of cultural and entertainment venues throughout Wales – from vast arenas such as Cardiff’s Principality Stadium to local theatres, galleries, pubs and clubs.

8. The natural beauty of our countryside is legendary. Wales is a nation of magnificent mountains, valleys, forests and lakes, and it’s compact enough for easy exploration.

9. Nowhere in Wales is far from the sea. Most of our universities are in coastal cities or towns, but even the inland campuses are just a short journey from our celebrated coastline.

10. There’s a unique culture and history to explore. We have six UNESCO World Heritage Sites – and it’s thought we have more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world!

Shopping in Hay
Coaltown Coffee

Related stories

Student life

How our universities will help you make the most of all the opportunities and experiences on offer outside the library and lecture theatre.