About the International Foundation Year
Our International Foundation Year is an initial year of study for international students who don’t yet meet the entry requirements for an undergraduate (Bachelor) degree at the University.
During the International Foundation Year, you’ll gain the academic, English language and study skills you need to progress straight onto your chosen undergraduate degree – there’s no need to reapply.
The University of Leeds International Foundation Year is one of the most established programmes of its type in the UK offered by a university ranked in the top 100 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026). Since 1989, we have been helping high-achieving students to realise their ambition of studying with us.
Discover over 150 degrees you can study with an integrated International Foundation Year.
Video transcript: The International Foundation Year at the University of Leeds
A tailored academic experience
The International Foundation Year starts every September and follows the standard UK academic year. You’ll be taught by inspirational academics who share your passion for your subject on our beautiful single-site campus.
As well as English language modules, you’ll take study skills modules to help you adapt to the UK education system and university-level study. These include academic writing, referencing, presentation and research skills. You’ll also study a range of subject-specific modules to give you a foundation for your chosen undergraduate degree.
University-style education is really different from school. This seemed a bit scary at first, but the Foundation Year really helped to prepare me for this new style of learning.”
Student support
We’ll give you a comprehensive orientation to help you settle into university life and make friends.
Throughout your studies, you’ll have a dedicated personal tutor who’ll support your academic and personal development and help you with any questions or issues you have.
You’ll also have access to welfare and study support from the International Pathways Centre team and careers advice from the Careers Centre.
Guaranteed University accommodation
We guarantee new international students a place in University accommodation if you meet the application deadline.
If you live in University accommodation, you’ll get free membership for The Edge, our indoor sports facility, which has a 250-station fitness suite, a 25m swimming pool, sauna and steam room and more than 70 classes per week.
Campus and city life
As an International Foundation Year student, you’ll have full access to the University’s facilities, including four on-campus libraries and Leeds University Union (LUU). LUU runs over 300 societies and clubs, so you can develop your existing interests or find a new passion whilst meeting new people from all over the world.
Leeds itself is a lively, student-friendly city with lots of history and culture. Our campus is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre. Find out more about student life in Leeds.
Hear from our students
Read stories from previous International Foundation Year students to find out more about the programme and life at the University of Leeds.
You can also chat to a current University of Leeds student through Link to Leeds. Our ambassadors are on hand to answer your questions via email, live chat sessions, instant messaging or Skype calls.
