| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Science Foundation Year
A Science Foundation Year programme is the most flexible pathway to university, as it offers a broad range of study options in over 90 universities worldwide. In addition, the growing interest in Science-related degrees means having a guaranteed university pathway offers you the security that your university place is secure on successful completion of the foundation course.
Who is the course for?
The Science Foundation Year programme is specifically designed for international students who:
- Enhanced academic English skills, including presentation skills
- Improved subject knowledge in Maths, Chemistry and Biology
- Adapt to western teaching styles, lecture environments and academic standards
- Personalised university placement advice and support
- Flexibility to consider a broad range of degrees from over 60 universities worldwide
- Guaranteed access to an NCUK university upon successful completion of the course
Course details
The Science Foundation Year programme, offered by DIFC, is an intensive 7 or 9 month foundation course, designed to prepare international students for a place at top university.
Start
- September & January
Location
- In Campus
Duration
- 9 months (September intake) or 7 months (January intake)
Fees
- €16,600 plus registration
Entry requirements
- Language: Have a minimum English level of 5.0 IELTS.
- Qualifications: Successfully completed high school examinations.
- We accept SPM, WAEC, IGCSEs and a range of local high school qualifications
Student support
A central component of the programme is the personalised guidance and support students receive when it comes to applying to university.
Weekly tutorials help students to learn about their options, prepare stand-out personal statements and practice for university entrance interviews and exams, which are an important part of the admissions process.
What our students say
“My time at DIFC was simply exceptional. The support I received from the staff of DIFC has helped me grow in countless ways over a short period of time. Being a class rep, I make a lot of observations and I have seen a similar growth in my classmates from different nationalities. On arrival to Dublin, I was quite timid and did not know what to expect in Ireland, but with help from the DIFC Student Services, I settled in quickly.”
David Ochai from Nigeria
What degrees can you apply for with a Foundation in Science?
- Nursing
- Biomedical Science
- Pharmacy
- Occupational Therapy
- Genetics
- Biological Sciences
- Biochemistry
- Environmental Science
Related Courses
Health Science (Medicine) Foundation Programme
Engineering Technology Foundation Course
Sciences Foundation Course
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Visa to study International Foundation Programmes at DIFC coming from UAE?
If your application is successful and you secure your place at DIFC with a deposit, you will receive your final offer letter and we can start your Study Visa application process. In order for you to enter Ireland you will require a Study Visa; some countries don’t require a Visa but you can check if you require one on the INIS website. One of the requirements for your Visa application is the required score on a recognised English test. This is overall 5.0 on an IELTS test, which are organised by the British Council. As Irish Study Visas for Middle Eastern students are processed in Irish embassies in Abu Dhabi or Riyadh, the process is quite quick, usually taking no more than 4 weeks, which makes your Application Process much quicker.
Why Middle Eastern students choose to study Foundation at DIFC?
DIFC offers these International Foundation Year programmes leading to over 4,000 university courses. The International Foundation Year (IFY) is a qualification designed specifically for international students to prepare you for first year entry to undergraduate degree courses. The programme is run over 7-9 months and combines academic study, intensive English language preparation, study skills and cultural orientation. Studying in Ireland is a great opportunity for you, not to just broaden your horizons but to explore a new culture and experience a highly respected education system and qualifications that are recognised internationally.
The best place to study abroad?
With stunning natural landscapes, a fun-loving culture, vibrant history, and a lower cost of living than many places in Europe, (not to mention English being the main language of instruction), the reasons why Ireland is an ideal location to study abroad surely weighs more than a pot of gold!
