Preparing international students for university success

We provide a comprehensive range of pre-university, undergraduate, and postgraduate preparation programmes, exclusively designed for international students. These programmes provide students with the academic knowledge and skills they need to succeed at leading universities worldwide.

Our programmes are developed in close collaboration with subject matter experts and are rigorously validated by our University Partners to ensure they meet the high academic standards that universities expect. Every programme undergoes a thorough curriculum quality assurance review every five years, ensuring that the content remains current, relevant, and aligned with university requirements.

Academic excellence and quality assurance

NCUK produces all assessments for its programmes, ensuring consistency and fairness in evaluation across our global network of Study Centres. Each academic cycle is supported by stringent marking and moderation processes, overseen by programme assessment boards.

This ensures that all students’ assessments are marked accurately and fairly, no matter where they study. Our commitment to academic quality ensures that students are fully prepared to meet the challenges of higher education.

English for Academic Purposes

Integrated within our programmes, our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) modules are designed to equip international students with essential academic English skills, going beyond general language proficiency tests. Unlike standard English language proficiency exams, EAP focuses on practical skills such as academic writing, presentations, and critical reading, helping students thrive in university settings.

Tailored to their field of study, students gain confidence in using English within an academic framework, easing their transition to university life. Recognised by most NCUK University Partners as proof of language proficiency for visa purposes, EAP eliminates the need for additional external tests. Three versions cater to varying English levels, ensuring all students are well-prepared for their studies.

The NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) is a rigorous pre-university programme designed to prepare international students for entry into undergraduate courses at leading universities worldwide. This one-year foundation programme bridges the gap between high school education and university, equipping students with essential subject knowledge, academic skills, and English language proficiency. The IFY is recognised by UK ENIC (European Network of Information Centres) as equivalent to GCE A Level, Australian SSCE, American AP, and Hong Kong HKDSE qualifications. 98% of IFY students pass their university degree programme and 70% get a 2:1 or higher at university.

The NCUK International Year One (IYOne) is a credit-bearing first-year undergraduate equivalent programme designed to prepare international students for the second year of university study. Offering specialised pathways in Business, Electrical Engineering, and Law, it equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields. 99% of IYOne students pass their degree programmes and 89% get a 2:1 or higher at university.

The NCUK International Year Two in Business Management (IYTwo Business Management) is a rigorous programme designed for international students, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills for entry into the third year of undergraduate study. This credit-bearing second-year undergraduate equivalent programme encompasses a comprehensive curriculum that covers key business concepts and fosters critical analytical abilities, preparing students to succeed in a dynamic global business environment.

The NCUK Master’s Preparation programme equips graduates and three-year diploma holders with the English language proficiency and academic skills necessary for successful postgraduate study at NCUK’s University Partners. Offering flexible routes (Extended, Standard, and Accelerated), it fosters independence, introduces Western cultural norms, and ensures students are well-prepared for the challenges of higher education. The programme can be taught alongside other study courses or offered as a part-time option, making it ideal for students completing their Bachelor’s degrees or those already in employment. 96% of Master’s Preparation students pass their university postgraduate programme and 62% achieve a Merit or above.