University Foundation Year (UFY)


 
The Earlscliffe University Foundation Year is officially accredited by NCFE (National Council of Further Education)

This programme is for international students who have completed their own country’s formal secondary school leaving certificate or qualification (s).

Students must be at least 17 years+ by 1st September preceding the course start date. Students must have attained a minimum English Language level of IELTS 5.0 or equivalent, prior to starting the course.

Key Factors

  • A one year course. All internally assessed.
  • Leads to UK university entry
  • 1:1 UCAS counselling
  • UK Year 13 (for ages 17 years+)

What our students say

“Of course, Earlscliffe’s small class size, second-home feel and wonderful community were big factors in my decision, but nothing was as meaningful and powerful to me as the mentorship I received.”

Ramin
Nationality: Germany
University Destination: Stanford University

“The study at Earlscliffe certainly paved my way to UCL and taught me the self-learning ability which is essential at university. You’re NOT going to regret it.”

Mike
Nationality: China
University Destination: University College London; Oxford University; Cambridge University

“My favourite thing is the atmosphere in the school; everyone shows interest in everything you are doing. Teachers, students and staff will always push you to be involved in activities, sport and events. Everyone works so hard to make you feel that you belong here.”

Elizaveta
Nationality: Russia
University Destination: University of Toronto

“The teachers are very special at Earlscliffe. During my time here, they were always making sure that I understood everything, that I pushed myself to the next level and they always asked me if I could do more. I wouldn’t have achieved the results I did if it wasn’t for them.”

Jeren
Nationality: Turkmenistan
University Destination: Charles University, Prague

“Moving to Earlscliffe proved to be one of the most important decisions in my life. The support I received from everyone at Earlscliffe was second to none. From choosing my A-level subjects to selecting university courses I felt that I was guided by true professionals with many years of experience. I would tell anyone, without any doubt, that Earlscliffe is a great place to develop skills that are vital for being successful at university and beyond.”

Max
Nationality: Ukraine
University Destination: University of St Andrews

“I immediately felt at home when I arrived at Earlscliffe. The staff were so warm and welcoming, and the teachers made sure that I always pushed myself to achieve the best possible results. I always wanted to study Medicine, but was unsure of how to go about applying, but the UCAS support I received at Earlscliffe ensured that I had an array of options, and I could make the best choices for my future.”

Deborah
Nationality: Nigeria
University Destination: University of Nicosia

“Boarding at Earlscliffe is about community. It feels like you have 16 best friends or 16 sisters who you can just hang out with. People help each other and if you’re in need there is always someone to help. Either with schoolwork, or with settling in. It’s a family here.”

Catalina
Nationality: Romania
University Destination: Currently in Year 13 at Earlscliffe

I was given great insight into what my time at university might look like and how best I could prepare for it

Uche

University Foundation Year Outcomes

A snapshot of our University Foundation Year destinations.

30+
destinations worldwide
20+
student nationalities
100%
focused on progression
DurhamExeterLeedsQueen MaryTorontoSt GallenUALMelbourne

The course structure

There are four alternative pathways to choose from:

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
  • BEM (Business, Economics and Management)
  • Humanities
  • Creative Arts

Included in the course

  • Three subjects (see subject options form)
  • English Language and preparation for IELTS
  • EPQ
  • Work experience related to university and career ambitions

Internal assessment and UCAS

Internal tests, assignments, essays, projects, end-of-term examinations and practical work all contribute to the assessment process. The final University Foundation Year grade will be awarded at Pass (40%), Merit (65%) or Distinction (85%).

Universities may make conditional offers through UCAS, for example, the candidate must attain:

  • An overall score of at least 65% on the University Foundation Year course
  • A minimum overall score of 6.5 in IELTS
  • At least a B grade in the EPQ

(This is purely for illustration. Some universities will include the EPQ in any conditional offer, and others will not.)

Download our University Foundation Year Destinations

Enquire Now