Pathway knowledge
Three subject modules in your chosen pathway.
Programme 01 · University preparation
International Foundation Year
Build the academic habits, subject knowledge and English confidence required for the transition to university-level study.
Programme facts
- Designed for
- Learners who have completed secondary education and want structured preparation for undergraduate study.
- Duration
- 32 academic weeks, including 28 teaching weeks, across two semesters
- Core weekly timetable
- 23 contact hours
- Learning format
- Maximum 16 learners in every class and pastoral tutorial
- Delivery
- Face-to-face, hybrid or fully online. Hybrid delivery combines online and in-person learning, with arrangements varying by cohort and location.
- RQF Level 3 route
- Through our accreditation with an external examination board, students can choose to study towards an Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 3 foundation qualification.
Entry and suitability
What you need before you begin.
- Successful completion of twelve years of schooling leading to a secondary-school leaving qualification accepted by Educere
- IELTS 4.5 overall with at least 4.5 in listening, reading, writing and speaking, or an accepted equivalent English language qualification
- Evidence of readiness for each subject required by the chosen pathway; Admissions will confirm the applicable qualification or entrance-test requirements
Applications are open. Admissions will confirm the next suitable cohort and current availability.
Subject pathways
Choose the academic direction you are preparing for.
Every pathway combines three subject modules with the shared English for Academic Purposes (EAP) module.
- 01Business
Mathematics (Business), Business Studies, and a choice of Economics and Global Business or Politics, Policy and International Relations.
- 02Computing
Mathematics for Computing, Programming for Computing, and Computer Systems, Data and AI.
- 03Engineering
Mathematics (Engineering), Physics, and a choice of Programming for Computing or Chemistry.
- 04Biological and Chemical Sciences
Mathematics (Science), Biology and Chemistry.
- 05Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management
Business Studies, Tourism Systems and Sustainable Destinations, and Hospitality Operations and Visitor Experience.
Curriculum
What you will work on.
English for Academic Purposes
A shared module across all five pathways, developing academic reading, writing, listening, speaking, vocabulary, grammar and study skills.
Independent study
Research, critical thinking, academic integrity, time management and reflective learning.
University preparation
Guidance on the expectations, choices and practical steps involved in progressing to higher education.
Assessment and support
Progress you can see and discuss.
- Routine formative assessment and progress feedback
- Assessment of English for Academic Purposes across Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking
- A maximum of 16 learners in every class and pastoral tutorial
- Academic guidance throughout the programme
- This is an internally developed Educere Academy programme designed to support preparation for university-level study.
Scheduled teaching includes standard digital materials, routine Educere assessment and programme support.
Questions
About Foundation Year.
How is the International Foundation Year designed?
Educere Academy develops the programme to prepare learners for university-level study through pathway-specific subject knowledge, English for Academic Purposes and independent-study skills. Universities set their own entry requirements and make individual admissions decisions.
Can I complete the programme entirely online?
Yes. The International Foundation Year is available through three delivery modes: face-to-face, hybrid—which combines online and in-person learning—and fully online. Delivery arrangements may vary by cohort and location.
Can I take an Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 3 foundation qualification?
Yes. Through our accreditation with an external examination board, we offer students the option of studying towards an externally awarded, Ofqual-regulated RQF Level 3 foundation qualification. Admissions will explain this route’s entry requirements, duration, assessments and fees, and help you choose the option that suits your university goals. Universities set their own entry requirements and make individual admissions decisions.
When does the next cohort begin?
Applications are open. Admissions will confirm current availability and the next suitable cohort after reviewing your circumstances.
Admissions guidance
Not sure which route fits?
Tell us what you are preparing for. We will help you understand the relevant programme and normally respond within two working days.