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Foundation and pre-master's programmes

A foundation, international year one or pre-master's programme can provide an alternative route of entry onto our undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

International Study Centre

Run in partnership with Study Group, our International Study Centre offers a range of foundation, international year one and pre-master's programmes designed specifically for students looking to progress onto our courses.

The International Study Centre is based in the centre of our campus and will provide you with academic and study skills preparation as well as access to the wide range of support and academic facilities available to all our students.

Undergraduate pathways

The International Foundation Year provides access to almost all undergraduate subjects through one of four routes:

  • Humanities, Law and Social Sciences
  • Business, Economics, Accounting and Finance
  • Engineering, Physical Sciences and Architecture
  • Health, Medical and Life Sciences.

The Accelerated International Foundation Year provides routes into a range of undergraduate programmes in just 22 weeks, including:

  • Business
  • Economics
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Engineering
  • Physical Science
  • Computer Science.

The International Year One programme offers direct entry into year two of a Cardiff University degree in:

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business Management
  • Engineering
  • International Relations
  • Law.

Postgraduate pathways

The Pre-Master's programme currently offers two routes:

  • Business, Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Science and Computing.

Guaranteed entry and on-campus accommodation

If you successfully complete your programme and achieve the required grades, you are guaranteed entry onto a wide range of our programmes. Some progression routes may require an additional interview or supporting materials to be considered for entry.

All students studying at the International Study Centre will also have access to Cardiff University's on-campus accommodation, as long as you apply by the relevant deadlines.

Find out more and start your application.

NCUK

The NCUK International Foundation Year can be accepted for entry into many of our undergraduate courses.

If you successfully complete the NCUK International Foundation Year, you will then have the opportunity to apply to Cardiff University where applications will be assessed on a case by case basis.

As part of the foundation year, you will take language and study skills modules to help you succeed when you come and study with us.

Other partners

We work in partnership with a number of other UK and international organisations who provide pathway programmes which will be considered for entry onto a range of our degree programmes. If you are studying on a foundation or pathway programme and want to know if you would be eligible to apply to Cardiff University, please get in touch.

Improving your English

If you have met the academic requirements for your course but need to improve your English language level, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet our English requirements.

Find out more about our English language courses.

International Office