International Foundation Year

What is the International Foundation Year?

The International Foundation Year at University College Dublin International Study Centre is a three-term undergraduate foundation programme. You will be based on UCD's main campus and prepare to make a confident start to your degree in Ireland. The programme is delivered by Study Group in collaboration with UCD.

We offer three subject routes for progression to UCD. Across each route, you will study a mix of modules designed to improve your English language and academic skills so you're ready to progress to the University. You will also benefit from our dedicated support staff in-centre who will work with you to ensure you're on the path to success.

Once you have successfully completed the programme, and achieved the required grades, you will join the first year of your chosen degree at UCD.

Who is the International Foundation Year for?

An International Foundation Year student will:

• be an ambitious international student
• have good academic qualifications from their home country
• want to develop their English language skills and subject knowledge further.

Check our entry requirements to see if you’re eligible to join one of our pathway programmes.

Choose the right International Foundation Year subject route for you:

Business, Economics and Finance - This route is for students who are looking to progress to a degree in the exciting fields of business, economics or finance. 

Engineering and Sciences - If you're interested in studying a degree in STEM , this programme will prepare you for your future at UCD and the world of work.

Social Science, Arts and Humanities - Progress to a variety of degrees within the fields of social sciences, arts or humanities through this route.

Online Pre-Sessional English

This course will help you raise your English language skills to the level you need to start your International Foundation Year programme. It is delivered through Study Group's Virtual Study Centre, students will have the opportunity to learn alongside other international students.

Check our entry requirements page for more information and term dates.

Study plans

Why study the International Foundation Year?

Wide range of degrees

Whichever route of the International Foundation Year you choose to study, you have a great selection of undergraduate degrees to choose from. You can select the degree that suits your career ambitions.

Career development

Your programme includes integrated workplace skills development activities so you can develop the skills you need for career success.

Though a variety of activities, CareerAhead provides you with opportunities to develop a range of skills employers look for. These include teamwork, problem solving and communication. Staff will help you identify your personal qualities and strengths, and with support from your tutor you will create a personal development plan to set goals for your future.

Regular tailored assessment

While you're with us at the International Study Centre, we will regularly assess your work to make sure you're on track, and give expert feedback. Assessment is a combination of examinations, coursework, presentations and extended essays.

Improve your English

The International Foundation Year is taught and assessed in English. You will be encouraged to use English in the International Study Centre too. The programme is a great opportunity for you to develop your English language skills so you're ready to join the University.

Virtual Internships

As you study the International Foundation Year, you can additionally benefit from an online internship placement in a career field of your choice with Virtual Internships. Having access to a virtual work placement experience will help prepare you for the world of work, by enabling you to put the knowledge you have gained from your academic studies into working practice*.

Once you begin your journey with us at UCD International Study Centre, you will be able to utilise Virtual Internships at no extra cost and start gaining real-world industry experience while you study with us**.

Benefits of a Virtual Internship

• Develop your CV whilst you complete your studies.
• Improve your employability with evidence of work experience from a range of prestigious employers.
• Prepare for the future workplace by gaining experience of working remotely.
• Put what you learn during your pathway programme into practice and develop outside the classroom.

You will also gain access to CareerBridge, a professional development hub. Here, you will be assigned a supervisor who can help you develop your CV and interview techniques, as well as deliver key insights that will be useful once you have started your career.

*Under your Student visa you are permitted to work for up to 20 hours per week – this includes any hours you choose to devote to a virtual internship. Please see full terms and conditions for more information.

**Please note that a virtual internship is usually an unpaid experience.