An engineering student at the University of Leeds

International Foundation Year in Science, Engineering and Computing

International Foundation Year

What is the International Foundation Year in Science, Engineering and Computing?

This International Foundation Year pathway leads to a diverse range of science-related undergraduate degrees at the University of Leeds. Across two semesters you will study core and subject-specific modules which are carefully tailored for your academic development and chosen area of study.

Key facts

Two semesters

Find out the specific term dates for this programme.

September, November (with Enhanced Induction) or January

Find out more about the entry requirements and course fees for this programme.

Modules

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide.

You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

Alongside your classes, your studies will be supported by an online learning platform, providing you with a range of tasks and activities specifically designed to develop and extend your language and academic skills outside the classroom and to give you more control over your own learning.

This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of human biology consisting of seven key topics: cells, biological molecules, movement across membranes, protein synthesis, cell replication, enzymes, and respiration. This module will further develop your knowledge of the major systems of the human body consisting of six key topics: the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, nervous, urinary, and hormonal systems. The module also further develops your Maths, laboratory skills and scientific report writing as well as introducing you to experiment planning.

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles that form the basis of Chemistry. It consists of seven key topics: Atomic Structure and Bonding, Mole concept, Redox reactions, Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibria, Chemical Kinetics, and Organic Chemistry. The module also further develops your laboratory skills and scientific report writing as well as introduces you to experiment planning. 

Mathematics for Engineering and Computing provides you with a foundation in the mathematical modelling of systems and the core maths skills which are integral to courses in Engineering, Computing and other STEM subjects. It aims to garner interest in mathematics as a subject and through exposure to its applications. It also aims to develop self-confidence so that you are ready to take initiative and work independently.

This Physics module provides you with an essential understanding and aims to garner interest in key aspects of Physics (materials, fluids, electrical circuits) in preparation for degree courses in Engineering, Computing, and other STEM subjects. It provides opportunities for you to master your English language skills through discussion and academic writing.

The module provides you with an opportunity to identify and research a topic aligned to your progression degree. It will equip you with fundamental scholarly, research and transferable skills, necessary for progression onto an undergraduate course.

Why study Science, Engineering and Computing with us?

This International Foundation Year will prepare you to progress on to multiple degrees at the University of Leeds, which is one of the UK’s leading universities, and has many highly ranked degree subject areas. More benefits that come with choosing to study here are as follows.

The School of Mechanical Engineering

With a central focus on advanced research facilities, The School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leeds is a part of one of the largest, globally renowned, academic engineering groups in the UK.

The School of Computing

The University of Leeds’ School of Computing has a world-class reputation for engagement with industry, as well as highly praised research and teaching models.

Career focused

You will benefit from the strong enterprising industry links that the University of Leeds has to offer. Designed to prepare you with knowledge valued in scientific business, this pathway will additionally develop your real-life business skills through integrated career skills content.

Individual support

Designed for international students, this programme takes a unique, focused approach to teaching and curriculum. Your learning will be structured in the same way as University teaching, with an aim to individually support you as you enter into the British education system.

University of Leeds subject rankings

11th in the UK for Mechanical Engineering (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

5th in the UK for Civil Engineering (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

19th in the UK for Pharmacology and Pharmacy (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)

92% of students

who completed their International Foundation Year programme in Science, Engineering and Computing at Leeds International Study Centre were eligible to progress to a degree course at the University of Leeds in 2023.

Progression Degrees

You will be required to take an Academic English Skills test at the end of your programme, details of English language grade requirements below. This means that once you successfully complete the International Foundation Year, you will be ready to start your degree at the University of Leeds.

Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish GradeGrade Module
No Results

Depending on your progression degree, you will study modules related to your chosen subject.

  • Natural Sciences MNatSCi (Hons) / BSc (Hons)

ATAS certificate required:

  • Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering MEng (Hons)
  • Mechanical Engineering MEng (Hons)
  • Medical Engineering MEng (Hons) 
  • Physics MPhys (Hons)
  • Theoretical Physics MPhys (Hons) 

Get a different cultural perspective

A group of students looking engaged in a classroom.

How to apply

Discover how to apply for a programme at the International Study Centre. You can also find the documents you need to provide alongside your application.

The Leeds International Study Centre sign

International Study Centre

Study abroad programs at the International Study Centre offers opportunities for international students to study in the UK. Discover how to progress to an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.

A group of students in a Leeds ISC classroom

English language courses

Develop your English language levels before you start your pathway programme with a dedicated course.

Join us today

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!