Our International Foundation Year (IFY) courses include a year of study at foundation level, prior to studying your chosen degree at undergraduate level.

The IFY is our 4-year integrated Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) option. 

View our IFY courses

Find out how to apply for an IFY course

Developing your academic skills

Our IFY courses help you gain the skills you need for study in the UK. You will be allocated an academic tutor to support you throughout the course.

Your first year of study (Year 0) is the same as our International Foundation Programme. During the foundation year, you will develop the academic and English language skills needed for undergraduate study. You can also choose modules that let you explore the undergraduate course you intend to study.

After successfully completing your foundation year, you can progress onto your chosen degree at Reading.

All of our IFY courses start in September. We also offer a January start date for some subjects.

Preparing you to succeed at university and life

Our IFY courses provide a holistic foundation experience. As well as developing your academic abilities, our courses will help you:

  • build your confidence in a UK university environment
  • develop critical thinking via small group teaching
  • strengthen your academic English in the context of your chosen subject.
By choosing an IFY at Reading, you will grow into a well-rounded student with the skills to succeed at university and life.

Enjoy campus life

From day one, you will be a University of Reading student based on our Whiteknights campus. You will have access to all our academic, social and sports facilities.

Whiteknights campus offers a vibrant, international community. Here you’ll find:

International Foundation students are also guaranteed a room in University of Reading accommodation.

It’s a great transition coming from another educational background. It was a wonderful opportunity for me and a really great experience. I met some phenomenal people from all around the world.

Caitlin, BA Museum Studies and Archaeology with International Foundation Year

Single four-year visa

Our IFY courses enable you to apply for a single four-year visa that covers the full duration of your studies at Reading.

Our IFY courses

We offer a wide range of IFY courses in many – but not all – of our subject areas.

Here, you'll find links to all the IFY courses we offer. If you cannot see your preferred course, you may want to consider applying for our International Foundation programme (IFP).

Choosing your international foundation pathway

At the Global Academy, we offer two international foundation pathways. Alongside the International Foundation Year, we also offer an International Foundation Programme (IFP).

If you don’t know which subject you would like to study, or can’t find the subject you’re interested in listed here, the IFP may be the best option for you.

The IFP is a one-year foundation course that prepares you for undergraduate study. After completing the course, you will be able to progress onto a wide range of undergraduate degrees at Reading – including courses at Henley Business School.

Find out more about the International Foundation Programme


Speak directly to a University of Reading representative

Book a one-to-one virtual meeting with Atul Rana, our International Foundation Pathways Recruitment Manager. You will be able to find out more about our pathways, how to apply, and discuss which option may be right for you.