Durham ISC students chatting in the hallway.

Undergraduate degree and preparation programmes

A supported, structured start to your university degree

Our undergraduate programmes give you a clear, planned route into university study and graduate abroad. Whether you begin with the International Year One (Undergraduate Degree Year One) or International Foundation Year, you’ll experience a more supported transition into university learning – building confidence, academic skills and independence from day one. 

These pathway programmes are ideal if you want a guided start, personalised academic support and guaranteed progression to university when you successfully complete your studies. 

International Year One

Undergraduate Degree Year One – a supported first year of university 

The International Year One is your first year of undergraduate study abroad. It gives you a direct route into the second year of your degree while surrounding you with the support, guidance and encouragement you need to grow. You study real first-year university modules, but with teachers who know you, believe in you and help you succeed. You begin your university journey feeling secure, supported and already one step ahead. 

Why choose the International Year One?

Guaranteed progression to year two
Successfully complete this programme and move confidently into the second year of your degree with certainty about your progression.

A more supported first-year university experience
Learn in smaller classes with more teaching hours and personalised support, helping you achieve stronger results than many direct-entry students.

Study first-year university modules
Follow the same academic content as students who enter directly but with extra support that builds your confidence and accelerates your progress.

Academic English and study skills support
Develop the essential skills for university success, giving you a real advantage when you move into year two, including:

  • Academic writing
  • Research skills
  • Critical thinking

No extra cost or time, and all the extra support
The programme matches a traditional first year but includes additional support that direct-entry students don’t receive.

Future-ready preparation for year two and beyond
Strengthen your independence, communication and study skills so you enter year two confident, capable and ready to do well.

A global classroom
Learn alongside students from around the world. Build friendships, share experiences and grow within an international community that understands your journey. 

Strong student progression
91% of International Year One students completing our programme were eligible to progress to year two at their chosen university (2024-2025 academic year).

International Foundation Year

University degree preparation – gain the advantage

The International Foundation Year is a powerful first step for students who want to begin their degree with certainty, confidence and a clear route forward. It builds your academic foundation, your English language skills and helps you develop essential abilities like academic writing, research and critical thinking. Most importantly, it gives you the confidence to start university fully prepared. 

When you successfully complete the programme, you are guaranteed entry to the first year of your chosen degree. 

Why choose the International Foundation Year?

Start university with a strong foundation 
Become familiar with university teaching styles, academic expectations and the pace of study, before your degree even begins. 

A planned, guaranteed route to university 
Follow a structured progression pathway that gives you (and your family) confidence in your next steps. 

More academic support than direct entry 
Learn in smaller classes with more teaching hours, personalised feedback and tailored support that meets your needs. 

Academic English and university study skills 
Strengthen the skills international students who enter university directly often find most challenging: 

  • Academic writing 
  • Research techniques 
  • Critical thinking 

Study on campus from day one 
Use university facilities, meet students and settle into campus life early – helping you feel part of the community. 

Nurtured for success 
Receive wellbeing and emotional support that helps you grow academically and personally. 

Ready for the future 
Gain academic, life and employability skills so you feel fully prepared and confident for your degree. 

Strong progression 
87% of International Foundation Year students completing our programme were eligible to progress to their chosen university course (2024-2025 academic year). 

Bellerbys Global

You can also choose to study the Bellerbys Foundation Programme in China, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea or the UK.

Learn more about Bellerbys
Nikita from India

“The foundation that we study at the International Study Centre is really helpful. The presentation skills we learn help to ease us into university life. If I had gone to University College Dublin directly, I don’t think I would have been eased into university life, as the ISC helped with that.”

Nikita from India

Studied International Foundation Year in Business, Economics and Social Sciences
Progressed to BSc Economics at University College Dublin

Durham ISC students walking through campus

UK

A beacon of academic excellence, rich cultural heritage with a vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Dublin ISC students talking on campus

Ireland

Rich history is reflected in iconic castles and lively festivals. A high-quality Irish education is recognised globally.

A Florida Atlantic University student on campus

USA

Home to many of the world's top universities, campuses in the US provide a range of clubs, societies, and activities.