INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION YEAR
This programme offers an excellent opportunity to fully prepare for your undergraduate studies and adjust to life in the UK.
You will develop English language skills relevant to your subject, studying alongside other international students and guided by academics, tutors and support staff with experience in supporting international students in this important transition.
Level of study: NQF Level 3
Entry requirements: 5 GCSE/iGCSE passes at grade A-C, or equivalent

Tuition fees: £20,750 (12 months) £16,750 (9 months) £11,250 (6 months)

Duration: 12, 9 or 6 months

Start dates: January, March, October
Why study the International Foundation Programme with us?
Prepare for your UK undergraduate studies, guarantee progression upon successful completion of the programme

Build your intercultural skills and integrate with UK student life

Study in a fully embedded Pathway College where you’re part of the university campus from day one
Various start dates depending on English level
Studying in Newcastle
Newcastle has a reputation for being both one of the friendliest and liveliest cities in the UK and definitely a great place for you to be a student as one in six people in the city is a student.
We've invested more than 300 million pounds since 2005 to provide new learning, working and social spaces to improve services and support for our students’ welfare and education.
Our City Campus is in the heart of Newcastle city centre, so it’s the perfect place to make the most of your time at university.
Accommodation
Living in halls is a once in a lifetime experience. From meeting new people, to unwinding in your room. We offer a wide range of options when choosing your accommodation including en-suite rooms and catered accommodation.
You can book your place as soon as you make Northumbria your firm choice. Much like choosing a seat in the cinema, you can pick your exact room from the building floorplans, giving you the opportunity to shape your experience from start to finish.
Your support
Why Newcastle?
Top 38 best University in the UK
(Guardian University Guide, 2025)
Ranked 2nd in the North East
(Guardian University Guide, 2024)
Ranked 34th best University in the UK
(Complete University Guide, 2025)
''Being a pathway student is helpful for me to understand what I should expect in my degree studies. The course is very infomative, we have courses in plagarism, how to avoid academic misconduct. Given there are so many resources at the university and I am allowed to benefit from everything the university has to offer and be a university student from day one.''
Mitchel Ayaebene International Foundation Programme - Applied Science, Nigeria *Quote not relative to imagery
Your next steps
Are you interested in studying our course or do you have more questions? Our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way. We understand that choosing the right course and campus location is a significant decision, and we are committed to providing you with all the information and support you need to help you with your decision.