Top 7 reasons to choose the International Foundation pathway 

Can’t decide which UK pathway program is right for you? Check out the International Foundation – an intensive year-long course designed to bridge the gap between high school and undergraduate study.  

Here’s what your journey could look like: 

What are the benefits of the International Foundation? 

1. Improving your knowledge and skills 

The International Foundation program offers international students the opportunity to improve their subject knowledge and academic and English language skills to the level required by their chosen university.

Upon successful completion of your program, subject to meeting the progression requirements and any other conditions of your offer, you are guaranteed progression to the partner university.

If you’re still exploring your study options, you may consider studying in one of our Choice centers.

2. Experiencing university-style teaching  

 Teaching methods differ across the world. The International Foundation program is designed to help you adjust to the UK’s academic style. You’ll gain experience through university-style teaching – which includes attending lectures, participating in discussions and taking responsibility for your own learning through independent study.  

But don’t worry – your classes will be much smaller than at university – so you’ll get more attention and one-to-one support during your pathway.

3. Settling into life abroad 

A pathway program allows you extra time and space to settle into life abroad, making sure you’re ready to tackle the challenges of independent university life. Your International Foundation year gives you an opportunity to make new friends and create fun memories while familiarizing yourself with your new home.  

Remember that feeling happy and settled will go a long way when it comes to your success at university.  

4. Choosing a specialist program 

The International Foundation isn’t just about core academic subjects. You can also choose from a range of specialist programs at the UK’s top universities – such as architecture, art and design, medicine or actuarial science, just to name a few. This is perfect when you’re sure about the course you want to pursue at university. 

If you haven’t chosen a specific degree yet, but know which subjects are your strongest, you can opt for a more general International Foundation program – such as business, humanities and social sciences, or science and engineering. Taking broad subjects gives you more time to discover your passions and career goals before you finalize your degree choice.  

5. A single visa for your whole study plan 

Most international students are required to apply for 2 visas – 1 for their pathway and 1 for their degree. But there’s another option that will save you time and money. 

At some of our centers, we offer International Foundation programs that are already combined with an undergraduate degree through iCAS*. With this continuous study plan, you’ll avoid the hassle and the extra costs of visa renewal in between your studies. One visa, one study plan, no fuss. 

Learn where you can study with a single visa in this blog or contact your education counselor to find out more.

6. 1-to-1 support 

At INTO, we aim to provide a student support experience like no other. In addition to full academic support from your teachers, you’ll also have access to high levels of welfare support. From on-campus accommodation officers to dedicated Personal Tutors and help with tasks like registering with a doctor or renewing your visa, we’re here for you every step of the way.

You’ll also receive expert guidance on your university application and help to choose the right degree for you. 

7. Exposure to diverse cultures 

The UK is a top study destination for students from all over the world, so you’ll be in good company. This means you’ll interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, expanding your worldview and creating an open-minded approach to life. 

Forming friendships with your classmates doesn’t just make studying abroad more fun – it creates lasting connections and networking opportunities that could be useful when it comes to building your future career. 

Is the International Foundation right for you? 

The International Foundation program is suitable for students who: 

• are at least 16 years old 

• have completed 12 years of schooling in their home country to the standard required for entry to their chosen International Foundation. Explore our courses for further information. 

• have an IELTS result of 4.5 in all sub-skills, depending on the course and term length (many INTO centers offer a supporting Academic English course if you don’t meet this requirement). 

• can submit a portfolio depending on the program or if required by the center, which will give admissions officers a deeper understanding of your abilities. 

Want to find out more about our international pathways? Discover the International Year One and how it differs from the International Foundation program.  

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* Integrated Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (iCAS) is a program combining undergraduate degree with a pathway program, enabling international students to study in the UK with a single visa from pathway to university. Other conditions may include criteria such as retaining your status as a non-UK or EU student. For full details, see www.intostudy.com/terms.