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2026/27

IFP International Foundation Programme - January

  • UCAS code
    Q3N1
  • A level offer
    See entry requirements
  • Year of entry
    2027/28 See 2026/27 entry
  • Course duration
    Other: Full Time: 7 months

If you are planning on coming to the UK to study, and you don't have British A level qualifications or the equivalent, the International Foundation Programme (IFP) offers you the opportunity to prepare for an undergraduate degree at a British university.

At the University of Reading Global Academy, we have 100 years of experience in international education, and we provide world-class teaching, cultural insight, and ongoing personalised support. 

Our International Foundation Programme (IFP) provides access to prestigious Henley Business School degrees at the University of Reading as well as to most of our undergraduate degrees. Henley is one of only 145 business schools globally to hold the triple crown accreditation status from the leading UK, European and US accrediting bodies (Association of MBAs (AMBA); European Foundation for Management Development (EQUIS); Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)).

There are two entry points for the IFP, one in September and one in January. Find out more about the IFP September.

With the IFP January you can progress onto business, management and finance degrees. Popular progression degrees include:

  • Henley Business School degrees: Accounting; Business and Management; Finance; Real Estate
  • Construction Management and Engineering
  • Quantity Surveying
  • Economics
  • Computer Science.

If you already know the subject you wish to study at undergraduate level, we offer a range of four-year undergraduate degrees that include an integrated International Foundation Year.

*On successful completion of the IFP, you are guaranteed the opportunity of a place on your chosen degree at Reading, if you meet the progression requirements set out by the University departments for their degrees.

The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a University-led foundation programme and is subject to the same quality and assessment procedures as the rest of our courses and programmes. We have taught the IFP for more than 40 years and have an international reputation for excellence in both our teaching and the support we provide our students. You can apply for scholarships to help fund your time here, and if you are aged 17 or over, you will be eligible for a place in halls on our award-winning campus.

What you will learn

The IFP prepares you for undergraduate study. You will:

  • receive academic training in subjects for your undergraduate degree
  • develop your English language abilities
  • acquire the transferable academic skills needed for undergraduate studies and beyond.

The IFP is split into three pathways. You will enrol on the pathway with modules that closely align to your intended degree:

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

Within each pathway, you will study a set of modules closely related to the degree you intend to study as an undergraduate student. In addition to the degree-specific modules, each pathway includes two compulsory modules: Introduction to Academic Skills and Communication, and Further Academic Skills and Communication. These modules help you gain the academic and English language skills you need to succeed at university.

You will be taught by experienced University academics, many of whom teach these subjects at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Additionally, an academic tutor will be assigned to support and guide you through your studies.

Preparing you for success

By the end of the programme, you will be able to present ideas and arguments with accuracy and confidence both orally and in writing. You will also have the transferable skills necessary for undergraduate study.

In 2024, 98% of students passed the IFP and 92% were able to progress to a University of Reading degree. Graduates have enjoyed successful careers in a wide range of industries, including business, law and food science.

Visit the International Foundation Programme website.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: not applicable.

New international students: £23,850

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

IFP scholarships and discounts

Please see our International Foundation Programme (IFP) website to find out more about scholarships and discounts for IFP students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

During the International Foundation Programme (IFP) you will develop transferable skills such as the ability to produce high quality written work, interpret and analyse a range of information, think critically, and communicate well.

Global Academy provides global expertise, innovative education and personalised support for international students across all disciplines and stages of study. We are more than a starting point – we are your academic partner throughout your entire university journey. We help you transition from supported learning to confidently managing your own academic path, helping you achieve academic excellence and your career ambitions.

Students from the IFP go on to study a wide range of degrees at the University of Reading. Upon completion of their undergraduate studies, they have also gone on to postgraduate studies and careers in a number of different industries. In particular, law and legal services, higher education, government work and the public sector, IT, engineering, marketing, E-commerce, public relations, meteorology, pharmacy, retail, banking and many more.

Build the skills to succeed in your career – and contribute to a sustainable future

At the University of Reading, we help you turn your environmental and sustainability values into opportunities that make a difference to your career and the wider world.

Employers are already reshaping their businesses to respond to climate change, and they increasingly value graduates with expertise in environmental stewardship – one of the fastest-growing skill areas (World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report 2025).

During your time at Reading, you’ll have access to a wide range of opportunities and support. This will help you graduate with the knowledge and confidence to tackle environmental and sustainability challenges in your career.

In 2025, the University of Reading won the AGCAS Green Careers Award. Judges highlighted the impact of our Careers service and the positive outcomes our students achieve.

Explore the climate and sustainability initiatives you can get involved with as a student at Reading.