Chemical & Physical Sciences

Build the foundations for a degree in chemistry, physics and beyond.

If you’ve ever wondered what everything is made of, how energy powers our world, or what’s really happening in the stars above us, you’re in the right place.

The NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to progress to an undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, economics, banking and more.

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One trusted programme, endless possibilities

The NCUK International Foundation Year is a university preparation programme for international students who want to progress to undergraduate study. It helps you bridge the gap between school and university. You’ll build academic subject knowledge, academic English and the study skills you’ll rely on throughout your degree.

Students study one recognised programme, made up of:

Three academic subject modules, chosen to reflect your interests and future degree ambitions
One English language module, to develop the academic English you need for university
Skills for Success module, to build independent learning, research and critical thinking

By studying the IFY, you can choose modules that reflect your goals. Our Pathways to Chemical & Physical Sciences guidance helps you see how those choices can support your future goals.

IFY modules usually required:

Technical Maths and at least one of
Chemistry
Physics

IFY modules that might be useful to support progression include:

Biology
The other of Chemistry or Physics
Further Maths

Integrated Maths and Technical Maths cannot be studied together, and Further Maths can only be taken alongside Technical Maths.

Check before you choose

Entry requirements vary by degree and university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to check:

Required subject modules
Entry grades
Any course-specific requirements

Then speak to your Study Centre about the modules available locally.

View our full list of progression options which showcase NCUK University Partners in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA and more.

*Data compiled from NCUK University Partners ranked in the Chemistry, Physics & Astronomy and Materials Science rankings (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

View our NCUK University Partners

Explore a range of undergraduate degrees

Chemistry and physics are behind some of the world’s biggest breakthroughs, from clean energy and new materials to medicines and space exploration. A degree in the physical sciences builds strong skills in analysis, experimentation and problem-solving, opening doors to careers in research, industry and technology worldwide.

Students exploring this area often progress to undergraduate degrees such as:

BSc (Hons) Chemistry
BSc (Hons) Physics
BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering
BSc (Hons) Astrophysics
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Want to see where the IFY could take you? The NCUK University Course Finder lets you explore degree options and check the exact entry requirements for the universities and courses you’re interested in. It’s the smartest way to plan your module choices with confidence.

University entry requirements vary by course and institution. Always check the NCUK University Course Finder before making your module choices.

Explore the NCUK University Course Finder

Your future, your choice

Here’s the important part: you’re not signing up to a separate programme. You study the NCUK International Foundation Year and choose the three subject modules that suit you. Our Pathways to Chemical & Physical Sciences guidance is here to support your thinking, not to limit it.

If your ambitions shift along the way, that’s completely fine. Maybe you’ll discover a passion for engineering, biomedical science or something new entirely. The IFY is flexible enough to change with you, and your options stay open as you discover what you love most.

NCUK was the best choice that I made. In the future, I would like to pursue further studies in my degree in Chemistry. I would love to be a chemist who can apply knowledge and learn practical skills from the education I received in my undergraduate course.

Seohyun Lim, BSc Chemistry, University of Sheffield

Prepare with confidence

When you succeed on the NCUK International Foundation Year, you benefit from NCUK’s university progression guarantee. It gives you access to a university place through NCUK’s university network, so you can take your next step knowing a real opportunity is waiting for you.

NCUK’s university progression guarantee applies to eligible students who successfully complete the IFY and meet the terms of the guarantee. It does not guarantee entry to a specific course, subject area, university or regulated profession. (ncuk.ac.uk/guarantee)

You’re never on your own

Choosing your future can feel like a big step, so we make sure you’re supported at every stage.

Alongside the IFY, you’ll get guidance on university options, applications, progression requirements and the practical side of moving to university. Your Study Centre, NCUK and our university network are all there to help you prepare, apply and progress with confidence.

FAQs

Do I enrol onto a Chemical & Physical Sciences pathway?

No. You enrol onto the NCUK International Foundation Year. Our subject-led guidance simply helps you choose modules that may support your interest in business and management.

How long does the IFY take?

The IFY is delivered over two semesters. Speak to your Study Centre about the start dates and study options available to you.

What are the entry requirements?

You’ll normally need a recognised upper-secondary school qualification and English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5. You’ll also usually be around 17 years old at the start. Requirements can vary by country, so speak to your Study Centre for details. For university entry requirements, check the NCUK University Course Finder.

Can I still choose my own modules?

Absolutely. The guidance supports your choices but never limits them. You choose the three subject modules that feel right for you. Speak to your chosen Study Centre to confirm which modules are available to you.

Do I need to have studied chemistry or physics before?

Most students will have studied some science at school, and a relevant academic background is usually needed for science and maths modules. The IFY builds on what you already know, step by step, so you can grow your knowledge and confidence before university. Your Study Centre can advise on whether your background suits your chosen modules.

Do I need to study maths?

For most chemistry and physics degrees, a maths module is strongly recommended, and many universities require it. Technical Maths, often alongside Further Maths, is usually the stronger choice for physics, astrophysics and engineering-related degrees. Check the NCUK University Course Finder and speak to your Study Centre before choosing your modules.

Start your journey towards Chemical & Physical Sciences

Your curiosity about how the world works deserves a strong foundation. Explore the modules that inspire you, check your options in the Course Finder, and speak to your local Study Centre to get started.

Subject availability depends on the modules offered by each Study Centre. Speak to your local Study Centre to see which modules are available.

Find a Study Centre

Locate a Study Centre locally or overseas.