University Foundation Year (UFY)

Our University Foundation Year (UFY) offers a choice of four popular pathways to UK university entry. It covers key topics in the chosen field, supplemented by research and writing skills, critical thinking and academic English.

The UFY is a bridge between school and university, which provides a balance of independence and support within a community environment. This course is suitable for students who want a one year pre-university course and/ or who perform better when continuously assessed rather than by final, high-pressure exams.

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

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.
Fully internally assessed (no final exams)
Leads to UK university entry
Includes 1:1 UCAS counselling
UK Year 13 (for ages 17 years+)
Included in the Course: Three academic subjects, English Language, and IELTS preparation

“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

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

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: