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International Foundation Year
Your pathway to an undergraduate degree at leading universities worldwide
The NCUK International Foundation Year is a pre-university programme designed exclusively for international students. Build your subject knowledge, academic English and study skills, with support for your university applications every step of the way.
The International Foundation Year is recognised by NCUK University Partners worldwide for first-year undergraduate entry, subject to their requirements.
At a glance
- Typically completed in 9 months, with alternative options at some Study Centres
- Combines three academic subject modules, academic English and Skills for Success
- Taught and assessed in English
- Leads to entry to the first year of an undergraduate degree at NCUK University Partners
- Available at NCUK Study Centres globally
Progress to leading universities worldwide
Explore thousands of undergraduate degrees at NCUK University Partners in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA and beyond.
Our network includes members of the UK’s Russell Group and Australia’s Group of Eight, with:
- 11 University Partners ranked in the QS World Top 100
- 22 University Partners ranked in the QS World Top 200
Use the NCUK University Course Finder to explore degrees and check the subjects, grades and other requirements for your preferred courses.
What you will study
Every International Foundation Year student studies five modules during their time at an NCUK Study Centre.
Three academic subject modules
Your Study Centre will help you choose subjects that support your degree ambitions. You’ll select three from twelve available modules including Art & Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Further Maths, Global Studies, Integrated Maths, Physics, Sociology, and Technical Maths.
Module availability varies by Study Centre. Some degrees require specific modules and grades. Speak to your Study Centre before making your choices.
Academic English
Develop the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills you’ll need throughout your degree. You’ll study one of the following:
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
- EAP for Proficient Users (EAPPU)
- Research and Communication Skills (RCS)
Many NCUK University Partners accept the relevant International Foundation Year English module as evidence of English proficiency, meaning you may not need a separate language test for admission. Required grades and acceptance vary by university and course. Visa requirements may also apply so always check with your Study Centre.
Skills for Success
Build the independent learning, research and critical thinking skills that degree-level study demands.
Assessment
Academic modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations, helping you develop the skills required for university study.
Explore International Foundation Year subject pathways
Whether you’re heading towards Engineering, Business, Medicine, Computer Science or another subject area, the International Foundation Year can be tailored to support your goals. Our subject pathway guides help you discover recommended module choices, progression opportunities and potential degree destinations.
These are guidance pathways rather than separate programmes. You study the International Foundation Year after selecting the modules that best fit your chosen direction. Your Study Centre can advise on the most suitable combination for you.
Medicine, dentistry and other competitive degree areas have additional requirements and limited places. Check carefully and speak to your Study Centre for guidance.
Academic preparation you can trust
Established by universities in 1987, NCUK has nearly four decades of experience helping international students access leading higher education opportunities worldwide.
Ecctis has independently benchmarked the NCUK International Foundation Year as comparable to internationally recognised school-leaving qualifications, including:
- UK GCE A Levels
- Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
- US Advanced Placement (AP)
- Australian Senior Secondary School Certificate of Education (SSCE)
- Alberta High School Diploma (Canada)
Comparability applies where students achieve a minimum grade D in all International Foundation Year modules and obtain at least 72 NCUK points.
The NCUK Guarantee
Successfully complete the International Foundation Year, apply through NCUK and meet the guarantee requirements, and you’ll benefit from guaranteed entry to an NCUK University Partner.
Academic, English language and other conditions apply. The guarantee provides one offer within our university network, which may not be your preferred university or course. Medicine and dentistry are excluded.
Support at every step
From choosing the right subjects to submitting your university applications, you’ll have support from your Study Centre and NCUK throughout your journey.
Our teams work together to help you make informed decisions about your future and prepare for a confident step into university.
Entry requirements
Academic requirements vary by country and qualification. Most applicants:
Academic requirements:
- Are aged 17 or above when they begin the programme
- Meet local academic entry requirements
- Have English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 overall, normally with no skill below 4.5, subject to the full criteria
Your Study Centre will review your qualifications and confirm your eligibility.
NB: For entry to Study Centres in the UK, students will need to complete a UKVI IELTS test for visa purposes.
You can view our full list of country-specific entry requirements by clicking the button below:
Don’t meet the English language requirements?
If you haven’t yet met the English language requirements for the International Foundation Year, improve your skills with our Pre-sessional English programme. Find out more by clicking the button below:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is the IFY different from A Levels?
Both prepare you for undergraduate study. A Levels normally take two years. The IFY typically takes nine months and combines academic subjects, English language development, study skills and university progression support, designed specifically for international students.
How much does the IFY cost?
Fees vary by Study Centre. Contact your preferred centre for tuition fees and additional costs.
How do I apply?
Applications are made through an NCUK Study Centre, whose team will explain the requirements, available subjects, start dates and enrolment process.
What if I don't achieve the grades for my preferred university?
NCUK’s Clearing service can help you explore suitable alternatives within our university network, subject to your results, course requirements and available places.
Start your journey to university
Speak to an NCUK Study Centre about your ambitions and how to get started. Need help finding a centre? Click the button below to contact us today: