So, you know you want to study abroad. After some research, you decide you want to apply to a university in the UK. Great choice! But perhaps you’re worried you won’t meet the grade requirements, or that your level of English isn’t advanced enough.
This is where the Foundation programmes comes in. The programme is specially designed to prepare international students, just like you, for success at a UK university.
What is an Foundation course exactly?
A Foundation programme is an academic pathway programme that often lasts one year and is designed to prepare you for the first year of your undergraduate degree.
You’ll study modules related to your degree subject area while practising and improving your academic and general English skills.
A benefit of the Foundation programme is that the classes will almost certainly be smaller than the ones you’ll experience at university – this means you get more one-to-one support!
Not only does the programme prepare you academically, but it’s also designed to give you space and time to make new friends, settle into life abroad and familiarise yourself with student life in the UK. You get the support you need to thrive, whether it’s visa advice or joining a student society.
Also, feeling happy and settled will go a long way to contributing to your success at university.
Is the Foundation programme right for you?
There are many reasons why you might want or need to enrol on an Foundation programme. The main reason for most international students is that they’ve decided to study at a university in the UK but don’t meet the academic or English language requirements.
If this sounds familiar, don’t worry! There are many in the same position as you and the Foundation programme has helped them to progress to their dream university.
Perhaps you have the right qualifications but you’re nervous about taking the huge step of studying abroad? The Foundation programme is a preparation programme so it will give you the extra time to adjust to a new academic culture and lifestyle.
By the time you come to start your degree, you’ll be familiar with UK university culture and will have spent time with students and teachers, meaning you’ll be confident in transitioning smoothly to your degree.
What Foundation programmes are available for you?
Ofgad has range of Foundation courses available for individuals who don’t meet the entry requirements for the degree course. There are no set entry requirements for these Foundation courses. The main requirement is the student ability to be prepared for the demands required by undergraduate degree level study. After completing a Foundation course, students will be able to develop learning to an appropriate standard to fill in the gaps and go on to study a full Bachelor’s degree.
How to apply get into a Foundation programme
In order to study, you need to choose a Foundation programme before applying for admissions to the university or college. Then send us your interest or apply via course page for admissions.
After you send your interest for admissions, we will put together your admission application and submit to the relevant university or college to provide you with Offer Letter so you can start your Foundation programme there. You need to accept this Offer to secure your spot. Thats it!
If you are an international student, and want to learn in detail about getting admissions, visas, and all the other steps, then read our guide How to apply to study at UK university, college or language school.