International Study Centre

International Foundation Year

What is the International Foundation Year?

The International Foundation Year is for international students who want a well-rounded, supportive introduction to an undergraduate degree at Kingston University, London. Taught in three interesting subject pathways, this programme will help you transition into university lifestyle and ensure your success while studying abroad.

Why study the International Foundation Year?

This programme is designed to prepare you to enter the first year of your undergraduate degree. By studying the International Foundation Year, you will benefit from:

  • a base of knowledge in your course subject area
  • the level of English language required for your undergraduate studies
  • bettered academic study skills
  • a focused approach to teaching
  • smaller-sized classes with lessons catered to you
  • a useful introduction to campus life.

Once you have successfully completed the programme, and achieved the required grades, you will be well-equipped to start your chosen undergraduate degree at Kingston University, London.

What you will study

The International Foundation Year is made up of several core and route-specific modules that will better your understanding of your chosen subject area. Depending on your choice of pathway, you can cater your modules to benefit your future career path. The course will also incorporate English language tuition, which will be focused on improving your speaking, writing and academic language skills, and prepare you for learning in a second language.

Choose your subject pathway

We offer the International Foundation Year in three insightful subjects. Explore the pathways below and find out which is right for you and your university journey.

Business, Management and Law

A student looking at business data

Prepare for a degree in Business at this entrepreneurial university. This pathway will cover key industry areas, including marketing, advertising, law and business economics, to give you the base of knowledge you'll need to study a range of enterprising degrees. 

Social Sciences

Students in a class at Kingston International Study Centre

With this pathway, you'll be prepared for degrees in a range of subjects, such as criminology, journalism, human rights and sociology. You will gain knowledge of a wide variety of topics, such as politics, economy and social studies and more.

Science, Engineering and Computing

Students working in a science lab

This pathway is for those with scientific minds, who are hoping to study a degree in the above fields. You will be prepared for your undergraduate studies with an introduction to topics like computing and physics.

Assessments during the programme

There are assessments at the end of each module, which are a combination of examinations, coursework, presentations and extended essays. Continuous assessment is also a feature of the course with lectures, small group seminar work and self directed study.

Study plans

IELTS (overall) Length Jun-Aug Sept-Dec Jan-Mar Apr-Jun Jun-Aug Sept
4.0 4 terms       Start your undergraduate degree
4.0 4 terms      
4.5 3 terms      
4.5 3 terms      

   International Foundation Year    English Language Preparation    Vacation

English language tuition

If you need to improve your level of English language to enter the International Foundation Year, additional English language training is available at the International Study Centre.

You will need an Academic IELTS for UKVI 4.0 overall (min 4.0 in all skills) or equivalent to study the English Language Preparation for International Foundation Year.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Our latest guidance and updates, including information for current students, frequently asked questions and our move to offering programmes online.