INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION YEAR (IFY)
Get guaranteed access to leading universities upon successful completion. Provides a direct pathway to higher education.
One Academic Year (9 months): Two 15-Week Semesters
Start Strong, Aim Higher.
Do you have no idea where to start in your university applications? Worried about what lies ahead when you start college or, more importantly, whether college is right for you? If so, you’re in the right place. NCUK IFY is a pre-university qualification that prepares students for admission to leading universities. Established with a strong academic foundation, the program has been shaping the futures of students worldwide for over three decades. It typically takes one academic year (9 months) to complete but there are alternatives to finish in 6 months or 2 years. It offers a blend of core and elective modules and students engage in lectures and practical sessions, with assessments conducted through exams, coursework, and projects.
Who is it for?
Ideal for international students who have completed their secondary education and aspire to pursue undergraduate studies abroad. Eligibility requires a strong academic record and proficiency in English.
Benefits of this program
“Your Golden Ticket to University“
Successfully complete the IFY program, and you’ll have a guaranteed place at one of top partner universities. No more worrying about whether you’ll get in – your future is secure!
“Choose from the Best Worldwide“
With over 45 universities to choose from, you have the freedom to find the perfect fit for your educational and personal goals. Study in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and more!
“We’re with You Every Step of the Way!”
Not only is NCUK here to support you, but we also aim to give you all the resources you need to succeed. Get free access to hundreds of past exams & answers, tutorials, guides, counseling, and so much more. We provide comprehensive support to ensure you’re never alone on your journey.
How will you be Assessed?
Coursework
Continuous assessments to reinforce learning and track progress throughout the program such as essays, lab reports, case studies etc.
First semester Exam
Mid-year exams to evaluate understanding of the of the material covered in the first semester. It usually takes about 2 hours 10 minutes
Final Exam
Comprehensive end-of-year exams covering the entire course content, ensuring you are fully prepared and confident to transition to university-level studies.
Entry Requirements
Age Requirements
Before the program begins in September or January of the following year, students should be at least 17 years old. In certain situations, 16-year-olds may be permitted, but their chances for progression may be limited as universities often accept applicants who are 18 years of age or older. Occasionally, universities will accept students at age 17.
Academic Requirements
- High school diploma
- Completion of IGCSE/O Levels/GCSE’s with 5 modules at grade 4/C or above including English and Math (Sciences for medicine)
English Requirements
IELTS 5.0 LEVEL or equivalent (TOFEL). The PDF file gives more country-specific information about the entry requirements.
What Subjects Can I take?
You will study English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in addition to three academic subject modules (core) as part of the NCUK International Foundation Year. Choosing from 13 subject modules (elective) equals a maximum of four subjects. As decided upon with the study center, these modules will be taught in-person or virtually.
Available modules for you to study include Art & Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Further Mathematics, Global Studies, Mathematics Business, Mathematics Engineering, Mathematics Science, Physics, and Sociology. The respective mathematics business, science and engineering are degree-specific and will be covered in the second half of the semester. During the first half, mathematics across all pathways will be the same.
Application deadline: Depends on what program session you choose to enroll in.
Program start date: September, January
Ready to take the next step?
ENGINEERING
SCIENCES
BUSINESS
HUMANITIES
Meet Amanda Mordi: An NCUK IFY Success Story!
From the halls of the NCUK International Foundation Year to the prestigious classrooms of Georgia Institute of Technology, Amanda Mordi’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. After completing the IFY program, Amanda secured a spot at one of the top universities in the USA, where she’s now excelling in her Electrical Engineering degree. Built on the strong foundation of her NCUK education, Amanda is currently interning at a leading company, paving her way to a bright future. Her story is a testament to what you can achieve with the right start. Follow in her footsteps and set yourself up for success!
