International Foundation Year

Studying at the International Study Centre will develop the English language and academic skills you need to succeed in an undergraduate degree at University College Dublin. We offer one programme—the International Foundation Year—with a choice of two subject routes. Studying on UCD's main campus you will prepare to make a confident start to your degree.

The International Study Centre programmes are provided by Study Group in collaboration with UCD. 

Choose from two subject routes:

Assessment and progression

Assessment is a combination of examinations, coursework, presentations and extended essays. Complete the International Foundation Year and achieve the required grades, then you can progress to your chosen degree.

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

Find out more about your progression degree options at University College Dublin.

Career development

At the International Study Centre you will develop skills for your future career success. Your Foundation programme includes an integrated careers and employability skills element, CareerAhead. This involves building your CV with activities designed to develop skills employers are looking for, from presentation skills to teamwork.

Find out more about career support at UCD.

Key facts

Course length: Three terms

Entry points: September or January

Age on entry: 17 years or older

September 2017 start:

Term 1: 18/09/2017 - 15/12/2017

Term 2: 08/01/2018 - 23/03/2018

Term 3: 03/04/2018 - 08/06/2018


January 2018 start:

Term 1: 08/01/2018 - 23/03/2018

Term 2: 03/04/2018 - 08/06/2018

Term 3: 11/06/2018 - 17/08/2018

Academic: Good high school graduation grades or equivalent

English language: IELTS 5.0 (minimum 5.0 in writing) or equivalent