Date published 9th September 2020
If you’re an international student considering studying an undergraduate degree in the UK, you may have heard about International Foundation Programmes (IFPs). But what are they and why might you choose to study one?
International Foundation Programmes are specifically designed to support international students prepare for undergraduate study in the UK. You’ll be able to develop your English language skills, grow your academic skills and be supported as you adjust to university life in the UK.
By successfully passing one of our International Foundation Programmes, you’ll be guaranteed progression onto one of over 70 different undergraduate degrees in subjects such as Creative, Engineering, Art, Maritime, Computing or Business at Solent University*.
*Selected programmes may have additional entry criteria.
Here are some reasons why you should start your International Foundation journey:
- Improve your English language skills
Fluent spoken and written English is needed, in order to study at undergraduate level in the UK. On top of this, it continues to be one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, commonly used in industries such as business, technology, and marketing. Therefore, it is a key skill for our modern, interconnected world. That is why our International Foundation students study academic reading, writing and general communication modules as part of their pathway studies.
- Get quality support
Our campus is full of highly qualified and experienced staff who are here to make sure your time at Solent University is as productive and as positive as possible. You will be taught, by academics with years of experience working with international students, in small group sessions – making class engaging and a personal learning experience.
You can hear more about what our students have to say about their experiences on our Meet Our Students page and find out about our academics and support staff here.
- Build subject knowledge
We have pathway options to best prepare you for your progression degree at Solent University. You will learn real-life case studies, apply theories to practice and develop extensive subject knowledge – helping to fully prepare you for your undergraduate degree. We offer Pathway courses in the following areas:
If you still need advice choosing which Pathway Programme you would like to take, we are here to help, so just send us a message. You can see all of the different programmes that are available to progress on to and which pathway can take you there. Whichever you choose, your course will help you develop subject-specific skills for your undergraduate degree as well as giving you the tools for successful student life at a UK-based university.
- Study with international students from all over the world
This unique opportunity gives you the chance to combine studies with meeting like-minded international students, from across the world. You will all be working towards the same goal, working on your studies, and integrating into UK academic life as well as life in Southampton. You will never be short for support, and you have the chance to make friendships that will last a lifetime.
- You can experience university life
One of the most exciting parts of university is the campus life. As a pathway student, you will study at Solent University’s Southampton Campus, giving you full access to all the incredible facilities, volunteering opportunities, chances to represent Solent at sport, as well as joining a variety of societies. This is your chance to integrate with other students and get a true taste of what it is like to study at university in the UK.
Leaving home to come and study somewhere new is exciting already, but to be able to immerse yourself in the student culture and make friends makes the adventure even better. Apply today to start your journey.
Currently, if you are unable to travel to the UK due to Covid-19, pathway students will be able to start their International Foundation Programme online from their home country. You can stay up-to-date with Covid-19 FAQs here including more information about online study.