University of Sussex students on campus

Futures start at Sussex

University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is a prestigious and progressive university offering students a life-changing education – which in turn gives them the skills to change lives. Located in Brighton, one of the UK's most creative and vibrant cities, students will be challenged in the classroom whilst enjoying a fulfilling life outside of studying. 

Why choose the University of Sussex International Study Centre? 

At the University of Sussex International Study Centre, you will find pathway programmes designed to help you succeed in your chosen degree. 

Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study a pathway programme at the University of Sussex International Study Centre: 

Supportive staff 

Support staff at the International Study Centre understand the challenges studying abroad can bring. And they love to help. You can ask for advice about your course, or you may simply want someone to talk to. Whatever you need, their aim is to support you to enjoy life to the full. Staff may also refer you to the excellent student support services available on the University of Sussex campus. 

Progress to the University of Sussex 

By studying at the University of Sussex you will learn from some of the best university teachers and researchers in the UK, who work at the forefront of their fields. Sussex’s teaching staff includes recognised Academicians and Fellows. In addition, members of staff have included Nobel Prize winners. 

The University of Sussex is renowned for its cutting-edge research, with 89% of its research activity rated as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (REF 2021). Students at the International Study Centre benefit from being part of a university that is at the forefront of global change and scientific discovery. 

Live and study in exciting Brighton 

The University of Sussex campus offers a unique combination of tranquility and energy. By choosing to study at Sussex, you will be surrounded by a beautiful national park while being just a short train journey from Brighton city centre. Brighton has fantastic transport links, with easy access to major airports, so you'll easily be able to explore the rest of the UK and Europe. 

The city is famous for its beautiful seafront, unique shops and markets, and thriving music and art scenes. There is something for all to enjoy in this wonderfully vibrant city. 

Award-winning Careers and Entrepreneurship team 

The University of Sussex is proud to be 16th in the UK for employment outcomes (out of 90 Higher Education institutions) in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The team's work experience offer received the 2024 AGCAS Award for Supporting Student and Graduate Employability and celebrated at the 2024 National Enterprise Educator Awards, as winners in the ‘Entrepreneurship Catalyst’ category. This highlights University's commitment to enabling more students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. 

The University of Sussex integrates career-readiness into its academic programmes, helping students stand out in a competitive job market. The International Study Centre’s curriculum ensures that students gain practical skills that will benefit them in their future careers. 

Key facts

Location: Brighton, UK

Pathway programmes delivered and term dates:

  • International Foundation Year – September, November, January 
  • International Year One – September, November, January 
  • Pre-Masters  
    • 1 semester – November, January, April 
    • 2 semester – September, November, January 

Ranking: 34th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2025) 

In 2024

95% of students who completed their programmes at the University of Sussex International Study Centre were offered a place at the University of Sussex.

Anna from Ukraine

The reason why I chose to study at the International Study Centre is because it gives me an opportunity to smoothly transfer from the school level to university. I think it allows me to get some transferable skills that I can also use in the workplace as well as university. So, although I felt like I was ready, I still had to sort of uplift my academic English skills, and I think the ISC is the perfect opportunity to do it.

Anna from Ukraine

Studied International Year One International Relations and International Development

Programmes on offer at the University of Sussex International Study Centre 

The University of Sussex International Study Centre has a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes available for international students. 

Undergraduate 

International Foundation Year 

  • Ideal for students needing to improve academic and English skills before starting university. 
  • Combines subject-specific study with English language development. 
  • Progress to the first year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Sussex. 

Subject routes include: 

  • Business, Accounting & Economics 
  • Computer Science 
  • Engineering, Maths & Physics 
  • Film & Media 
  • Finance & Technology 
  • Life Sciences 
  • Medicine 
  • Product Design 
  • Psychology 
  • Social Sciences & Law 
  • Social Sciences with Maths 

International Year One 

  • Equivalent to the first year of a UK undergraduate degree. 
  • Designed for students ready for university-level study with academic and language support. 
  • Leads to second year of an undergraduate degree after successful completion. 

Subject route available: 

  • Business & Management 
  • Computer Science 
  • Engineering 
  • Film & Media 
  • Finance & Accounting 
  • Finance & Techology 
  • International Relations & International Development 

Extended International Year One 

  • A four-semester programme for students who need additional preparation time. 
  • Includes enhanced English language, study skills, and subject-specific modules. 
  • Progresses to second year of an undergraduate degree. 

Subject route available: 

  • Business & Management 

Postgraduate 

Pre-Masters Programme 

  • Prepares students with a previous degree for master’s-level study. 
  • Develops academic, subject-specific, and English language skills. 

Subject routes include: 

  • Business, Management & Finance 
  • Computer Science & Engineering 
  • Film & Media 
  • Finance & Technology 
  • Law, International Relations & Social Sciences 
  • Life Sciences 
  • Psychology 

Next steps: Check your eligibility and fees

Entry requirements

View full entry requirements on the University of Sussex International Study Centre site.

Fees

Check tuition fees on the University of Sussex International Study Centre site.