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Lancaster University International Study Centre offers a range of programmes for international students, depending on your level of study. These prepare you to enter the degree programme of your choice.

International Foundation Year

The International Foundation Year leads to entry into the first year of a degree. As well as subject-specific content, it teaches English language preparation and study skills for when you progress to the University. You can choose from the following pathways:

• Business and Management
• Engineering and Computing
• Law
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Social Studies

Pre-Masters Programme

Our Pre-Masters Programme prepares you for postgraduate study at Lancaster University. You will build on the knowledge you have already gained in your subject, while developing English language abilities, as well as study and research skills. You can choose from two pathways:

• Business, Law and Social Sciences
• Engineering, Computing, Mathematics and Science

English Language Preparation

If your English level does not meet the entry requirement for our International Foundation Year, you can start with a one term English Language Preparation programme. The programme builds confidence in your English skills, helping you improve your communication and academic writing.

International Study Centre programmes are not available online. You will need to live in the UK for the duration of your programme.

You will need to meet certain entry requirements to study at Lancaster University International Study Centre. If your English is not at a high enough level to enter the International Foundation Year, you can first complete an English Language Preparation course.

The International Study Centre promotes active participation from students, to prepare you for the style of teaching you will encounter at the University. You will be encouraged to contribute in seminars, tutorials and lectures. Our small class sizes ensure that students receive individual attention from our supportive tutors. You will also have your own academic personal tutor. 

Explore tuition fees. You should also budget for living expenses.

Accommodation costs vary according to the facilities provided. The range starts with standard accommodation and the premium option is Townhouse accommodation.

International Foundation Year students can live on campus in one of Lancaster’s eight college halls of residence, and Pre-Masters Programme students have the option of a range of student accommodation room types conveniently located in Lancaster city centre. All options include bills, high-speed wifi, security services, and shared kitchen facilities. You may choose to share a bathroom, or have your own. All on-campus accommodation options are self-catering.

Alternatively you may choose to arrange private off-campus accommodation.

Explore housing options and fees. 

You can request accommodation with your application to the International Study Centre. When you confirm your place, the accommodation team will contact you with the details to apply for accommodation online.

Once you have applied, you will be sent a room offer. You should then accept by signing and returning the Occupancy Agreement to the University and making all due payments. 

You will need a Tier 4 (Student) visa to study in the UK. This allows you to stay in the UK for the duration of your course at the International Study Centre.

Find out everything you need to know about the visa process here.

The first step is to apply for a place at the International Study Centre. Once you have received an offer and paid your CAS payment, you will obtain a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies. You can apply for your visa online. All the steps are outlined here.

You should apply for your visa early, so that there is enough time for it to be processed. Check average visa processing times for your country here.

Applications can be made up to three months before the start date of your course, as soon as you have received your Certificate of Acceptance for Studies.