Program Overview

International Foundation Programme (IFP)

The International Foundation Programme (IFP) at the University of Reading offers students the opportunity to prepare for an undergraduate degree at a British university. With two entry points, one in September and one in January, the programme provides access to prestigious Henley Business School degrees as well as most undergraduate degrees at the University of Reading.

Overview

The IFP is a University-led foundation programme, subject to the same quality and assessment procedures as the rest of the University. The programme has been taught for over 40 years and has an international reputation for excellence in teaching and student support. Students can apply for scholarships to help fund their time at the University and, if aged 17 or over, are eligible for a place in halls on the award-winning campus.

Learning Structure

The IFP prepares students for undergraduate study, providing academic training in subjects relevant to their intended degree. Students develop their English language abilities, acquire transferable academic skills, and enrol on one of three pathways with modules closely aligned to their intended degree:

• Science and Mathematics Pathway
• Business, Management and Finance Pathway
• Social Sciences and Art Pathway

Students are taught by experienced University academics and are assigned an academic tutor for support and guidance. By the end of the programme, students can present ideas and arguments with accuracy and confidence, both orally and in writing, and possess the transferable skills necessary for undergraduate study.

Entry Requirements

• A Level: See entry requirements
• AS and A Levels: 72 UCAS tariff points
• International Baccalaureate: 24 points from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or International Baccalaureate Certificate
• GCSE: GCSE/IGCSEs at grades 94 (A*C) in five subjects
• IELTS: UKVI IELTS between 5.0 and 6.5 overall, with no skill below 4.55.5, depending on the intended degree course

Structure

Compulsory Modules

• Academic Skills: Enhance academic study and communication skills, building confidence and mastering transferable abilities.

Optional Modules

• Foundation Programme: Biology
• Ecology and the Environment
• Environmental Sustainability
• Chemistry
• Foundation Economics: Microeconomics
• Foundation Economics: Macroeconomics
• Core Mathematics
• Further Mathematics
• Quantitative Methods
• An Introduction to Business and Management
• Academic English 1
• Academic English 2
• Foundation Statistics and Data Science
• Introduction to Foundations of Law
• Further Foundations of Law
• Physics
• Concepts in Politics
• Government and Politics
• Introduction to Sociology
• Topics in Sociology
• Psychology and Biology
• Psychology and Research

Fees

• New UK/Republic of Ireland students: ｣23,000
• New international students: ｣23,000

Careers

The IFP develops transferable skills such as producing high-quality written work, interpreting and analysing information, critical thinking, and effective communication. Students from the IFP go on to study a wide range of degrees at the University of Reading and pursue careers in various industries, including law, higher education, government, IT, engineering, marketing, and more.

Related Subjects

• International Foundation Pathways

The University of Reading's International Foundation Programme provides a comprehensive foundation for undergraduate study, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in their chosen degree and future careers.