International students who have completed high school and wish to study in the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand but don’t meet the academic requirements for direct entry into an undergraduate degree often find that a foundation year is the ideal pathway.
A foundation course is a one-year preparatory program offered by many universities and pathway providers to bridge academic gaps and improve English proficiency. Here are some key facts to know about foundation programs:
A foundation year typically lasts one year, though some providers offer shorter, 6-month foundation courses.
Most foundation programs offer guaranteed progression to the first year of university.
Some foundation programs also accept students who have completed Grade 11, providing an early pathway to university studies
Different institutions may use various names for the foundation year, such as International Foundation Year, University Transfer Program (UTP), or International Direct, so be aware of these terms.
Students enrolled in a foundation year enjoy the same campus life and have access to the same facilities as undergraduate students.
Type of Foundations and Progression
Foundation Pathways are:
Foundation in Business Foundation in Computer Science Foundation in Engineering Foundation in Fine and Performing Arts Foundation in Health Science/Exercise Science Medicine Foundation program
These foundation pathway programs prepare students for various university degree programs in fields such as:
Art & Design, Accounting & Finance, Business & Management, Computing & IT, Law, Engineering, Social Sciences, Medicine, Science & Pharmacy, Media, and Humanities.
However, Foundation providers offer these pathway programs with varying subject combinations also, so it is important for students to choose the right foundation program that aligns with their intended progression degrees.
Foundation Entry requirements
Academic Requirements
5 O Level with C and above
50% and above in High School Grade 12th or Minimum GPA of 2.5 in High school diploma
60% and above in Thanawiya Amma (School Leaving Certificate)
English Language Requirements
IELTS UKVI 4.5 to 5.5 overall
PTE UKVI 42 to 46 overall
TOEFL 55 to 60
Duolingo 85 to 90
How to apply for Foundation year
Contact JNS Education to apply for a foundation course. Our expert counselors will guide you through the entire admission process, including selecting the right foundation program, securing an offer of acceptance, handling tuition fee payments, and processing your student visa application.