By Mehedi Hasan
Foundation studies have become a much-needed course for international students to get access to undergraduate studies at top-ranked universities globally. Kingston University has been providing foundation programmes in various subject areas with effective academic pathway support for domestic and international students. Kingston University has achieved a ranking within the top 60 universities in the UK (according to The Guardian University Guide 2024). Their range of foundation covers prime subjects such as Business, Engineering, Arts, and Computing. After completing the foundation, students can start building their academic future by further pursuing academic qualifications at Kingston University’s undergraduate honours degrees. The university offers state-of-the-art labs, media areas, lecture halls, and sports facilities, ensuring an inspiring environment for learning and development. In this concise reading, we will dive into details about the foundation year and available preparation programmes offered at Kingston University.
International Foundation Year – what we know so far
The International Foundation Year is a one-year academic programme that prepares international students for undergraduate study abroad. It typically runs for nine months and includes two semesters of core subjects like mathematics, science, law, and humanities. Students also receive focused English language training and essential study skills, such as academic and subject knowledge that is tailored to their intended degree area. There are so many hurdles that a foundation year can cover. For example, students who studied relevant subjects at an advanced level, but didn't get high enough grades, can rely on giving foundation year. As this preparation course is shorter than waiting a year to retake the advanced Level. Foundation also applies to mature student who has a long study gap and needs to achieve entry qualifications to kickstart their higher education study.
“A foundation programme can fill up the study gap between high school education and university standards in countries such as the UK, Australia, and the USA.”
Successful completion leads to guaranteed university progression. In the UK, foundation courses serve as a popular alternative to A-levels, especially for students whose prior education does not fully meet university or UKVI requirements.
Benefits of doing a foundation year at Kingston?
By studying the International Foundation Year at Kingston University London, you will benefit from:
Learning the basic knowledge about your desired course subject area.
Develop the English language that is required for your undergraduate studies and build confidence in communication.
Improve academic study skills for higher studies
Get a focused approach to effective teaching with expert tutors and lecturers.
Smaller-sized classes with modern study resources, including tutorials, workshops and participation sessions, catered to a student's needs.
Giving international students a useful introduction to campus life.
Available foundation courses:
The International Foundation Year is designed to set you up for success. You’ll study a mix of core subjects and modules that match your chosen career path. This can give you a head start in your future field. You’ll also get plenty of support with your English, helping you build confidence in speaking, writing, and using academic language so you can feel comfortable studying in a second language.
International Business, Economics and Accounting:
Contemporary Business Issues
Academic English Skills
Globalisation
Introduction to Accounting
Law and Social Sciences
Academic English Skills
Globalisation
Introduction to Law
Studying Social Life
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Applied Maths
Core Biology
Core Chemistry
Core Computing
Core Physics
Academic English Skills
Pure Maths
Integrated Foundation Subjects:
Aircraft Engineering FdEng
Applied Aircraft Engineering foundation degree
Foundation Diploma in Art, Design & Media Practice
Foundation Year in Built Environment
Foundation Year in Business
Foundation Year in Computing
Foundation Year in Engineering
Foundation Year in Social Sciences
Maternity Support Worker Apprenticeship FdSc
Maternity Support Worker FdSc
Midwifery Foundation Year
Nursing Foundation Year
Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) with Preparatory Year
Science Foundation Year
Science Foundation Year: Sport and Exercise Science
* The integrated foundation subject is taken as a preparatory year in addition with the main honours degree. So, typically with a three-year honours degree, you can add an additional year of foundation year based on subject relevance.
Programme expenses & entry requirements: International Foundation Year (IFY) for 2025/26 intake
Living costs may also vary significantly as London is a very big metropolitan city. Each part of the city offers different living expenses and travelling around the city. Achieving good results in the foundation enables students to get a decent amount of scholarships on their tuition fees for an undergraduate degree at Kingston University London.
Foundation Entry Requirements at Kingston
Where else can I enrol in a foundation year?
Many foundation providers partner with top universities and NCUK is a top pathway provider for International Foundation Year (IFY) studies. They offer the same level of academic guidance as you would get as an internal student.
They have 110 study centres operating in 40+ countries, leading to guaranteed progression to over 65+ leading universities. If you are an International student and wish to pursue higher education abroad, then you are strongly recommended to consider undertaking a foundation course preparation with NCUK.
Studying the IFY abroad at top academic institutions can cost around £15,000 to £20,000 or more per year (this also includes, whereas completing it at a local study centre drastically reduces the expense. NCUK has study centres all over the world, and their study centres maintain strict standards laid out by partner universities. And for students in Bangladesh, MIE Pathways is the only accredited NCUK-affiliated centre, where progressive students can complete a foundation after just 9 months of study and progress to 1st year hons at top universities around the world. Student Testimony:
“ I choose Kingston because of its prime location, it’s famous for the River Thames, and it is a secure area, in my opinion, compared to other parts of London. So, I applied for my first year directly, but then I got refused because I was underage. Technically, to start your first year, you need to be 18, but I was 17 at that time, so what the university suggested to me was to do a Foundation year. I did my foundation year and then progressed, and now I’m currently in my first year. I see they gave me the ability to improve my communication skills and my confidence level, and it’s paying off in my first year while I am presenting in class, so it works out ”.
Ali from Mozambique
International Foundation Year in Business Management and Law
Kingston University London
In conclusion, the Foundation courses at Kingston University London can help develop the core knowledge and English language skills for international students aiming to pursue undergraduate degrees. With a mix of tailored academic support, excellent teaching facilities, and a focus on language and study skills development, these programmes equip students with the confidence and qualifications needed for university success. Choosing Kingston means joining a lively, diverse community and gaining access to strong industry links, enriching career opportunities. For international students seeking a smooth transition into higher education in the UK, Kingston University’s Foundation programme offers a supportive and rewarding start to their academic journey.
FAQ
Q. What are Foundation Studies at Kingston University?
Foundation Studies are preparatory courses designed to help students meet the academic and language requirements for undergraduate degrees. They provide essential skills and knowledge to succeed in higher education.
Q. What types of Foundation courses are offered at Kingston?
Kingston University offers a variety of Foundation courses, including the International Foundation Year, integrated foundation years for specific subjects, and work-based foundation degrees.
Q. What are the foundational subjects offered at Kingston?
Foundation subjects include Science, Engineering, Computing, Business, Management, Art, Design, Media Practice, and Social Sciences.
Q. How long do Foundation courses last?
Most Foundation courses are generally one (1) year long with 3 semesters, but some work-based foundation degrees may take two years full-time or three years part-time.
Q. What support is available during Foundation Studies?
Students at foundation studies can benefit from smaller class sizes, personalised teaching, and access to university facilities and resources, including academic and language support.