Health & Life Sciences

Build the foundations for a degree in health, life sciences and beyond.

If you’re fascinated by how the human body works, want to understand how diseases are treated, or hope to build a career that improves people’s lives, 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 biomedical science, nursing, pharmacy, psychology 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 Health & Life Sciences guidance helps you see how those choices can support your future goals.

IFY modules usually required:

Biology

IFY modules that might be useful to support progression include:

Chemistry
Computer Science
Economics
Integrated Maths or Technical Maths
Further Maths
Physics

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 Life Sciences & Medicine, Biological Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy & Pharmacology and Psychology rankings (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

View our NCUK University Partners

Explore a range of undergraduate degrees

Health and life sciences are behind some of the world’s most important work, from developing new vaccines to caring for patients and supporting mental wellbeing. A degree in this area builds strong skills in science, research and communication. Hospitals, laboratories, healthcare providers and research organisations around the world value these skills highly.

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

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
BSc (Hons) Nursing
BSc (Hons) Psychology
BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise 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 Health & Life 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 chemistry, medical research 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.

I was interested in Biomedical sciences, and I wanted to study at a well-renowned UK university. So, for me, NCUK was the best choice… I was not let down, as the International Foundation Year programme equipped me with invaluable skills, study techniques, independence and discipline.

Richy, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences, The University of Manchester

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 Health & Life 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 health and life sciences.

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 biology before?

Most students will have studied some science at school, and you’ll usually need a relevant academic background for science 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?

It depends on the degree. Maths isn’t always required, but it can be useful for courses with a strong focus on data, statistics or chemistry, such as pharmacy, pharmacology and psychology. Integrated Maths suits many health and life sciences courses. Check the NCUK University Course Finder and speak to your Study Centre before choosing your modules.

Start your journey towards Health & Life Sciences

Your ambition to make a difference 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.