International Foundation Year

Your degree preparation

The International Foundation Year prepares you for undergraduate study at Lancaster. You will focus on English language, study skills and academic modules, and start planning for your future career. After your Foundation Year, you can progress to your chosen degree at Lancaster – one of the UK’s top ten universities.

How does it work?

When you apply to the International Study Centre at Lancaster, you choose one of six undergraduate degree routes. When you are accepted to the International Foundation Year you will receive a conditional offer to study for your chosen degree at Lancaster University after successful completion of your International Study Centre programme.

To be accepted for an International Foundation Year, you need to meet certain entry requirements. If you need additional English language support, you can take our English Language Preparation course.

What can I expect?

University-style teaching

Study modules 

During your International Foundation Year you will study core and academic subject modules. Core modules focus on English language and university-level study skills; and academic modules focus on your chosen degree subject.  

Teaching

You will learn in a university-style environment with group lectures, seminars, tutorials and independent study. Your seminar group will have around 20 students in it. This style of teaching will prepare you for your undergraduate degree at Lancaster.

Assessment

The International Foundation Year involves regular assessments that help you to progress and achieve the grades you need.  These assessments will include regular coursework, presentations, essays and exams.

Progressing to your degree

Career support

Throughout your International Foundation Year you will receive career guidance and support through our CareerAhead service. This helps you to plan for your future career, increase your employability, and develop the skills for success.

Your undergraduate degree

When you complete your programme and achieve the required grades you will progress to your undergraduate degree with the skills, knowledge and confidence to begin your undergraduate studies alongside other Lancaster students.