Your Pathway to University Success
This International Foundation Programme for Higher Education is your gateway to the first year of an undergraduate degree.
Programme details
Our International Foundation Programme, delivered over 9 months in partnership with NCC Education (an Ofqual-regulated awarding body), is designed to prepare students for undergraduate study in the UK and internationally. The programme focuses on developing essential academics skills, with students able to choose from a range of disciplines, such as:
- Art
- Business
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Finance
- Law
- Mathematics
- Science
Programme structure
Also known as the NCC Level 3 Diploma in Higher Education Studies, this 120-credit course consists of Compulsory Core Units and Elective Modules, allowing you to personalise your studies based on your English proficiency, interests and future university pathway.
Designed for flexibility, this course enables you to explore subjects that interest you most, including business, engineering, computing, finance, law, and creative arts. See below or visit the NCC Education website for more information such as the Programme Brochure and Unit Specification which includes the syllabus per elective with detailed learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
All students will take at least three Core Modules:
- English for Academic Purposes
- Mathematics for University Study
- Research and Study Skills for University Study
There are two ways to build the rest of your programme schedule based on your English language proficiency:
- If your IELTS score is between 4.5 and 5.5, you will take a fourth Core Module: Developing English Language Skills (DELS).
- If your IELTS score is a 5.5 or higher, you can replace DELS with an additional Elective Module.
See the Admissions Requirements for IELTS equivalent scores.
You’ll choose elective modules to complete the total required 120 credits. Electives are available as 20-credit and 10-credit options.
20-Credit Electives:
- Introductory Accounting
- Introductory Economics
- Introduction to Programming with Python
- Chemistry for University Study
- Biology for University Study
- Physics for University Study
- International Business
- Further Mathematics for University Study
- Law for University Study
- Art and Design (General)
- Fine Art
- Digital Art
10-Credit Electives:
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Digital World
When choosing your electives, you can take a variety of courses specifically designed to prepare you for enrolling on certain undergraduate degrees.
Chemical Engineering
- Further Mathematics for University Study
- Chemistry for University Study
Engineering
- Physics for University Study
- Further Mathematics for University Study
Computing
- Digital World
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Introduction to Programming with Python
Health Sciences
- Chemistry for University Study
- Further Mathematics for University Study
Higher Finance
- Introductory Accounting
- Further Mathematics for University Study
Business
- International Business
- Introductory Economics
- Introductory Accounting
Law
- Law for University Study
Creative Arts
- Art & Design (General)
- Fine Art
- Digital Art
Ready to take the next step?
ADVANCING TO A DEGREE AT UNIVERSITY
The NCC Education Diploma is recognised by over 100 higher education institutions and university branch campuses in 20+ countries. Upon completion, you will meet the entry requirements for any of the institutions shown below.
A selection of universities in the UK
Upon successful completion of your course, you will meet the requirements for over 100 universities worldwide.
COURSE length and start dates
This International Foundation Programme is a 9-month course starting in September 2025, offering flexible study options to suit your needs.
Study in London:
- Student Visa (CAS available) – If you require a Student Visa (formerly UKVI Tier 4), we can provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to support your application.
Study online and in London:
- Visitor Visa (Blended Learning) – If you enter the UK on a Visitor Visa, you can still enrol through our blended learning option, which allows you to complete the third term online from your home country.
Our admissions team is here to guide you through the visa process and help you choose the best study path based on your circumstances.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To enrol on this International Foundation Programme, you need to meet specific academic and English language requirements:
- Students typically have good high school grades. You must have completed secondary education with an equivalent of five GCSEs (A*–C), including Mathematics and English.
- You must be at least 16 years old by the time this course starts.
- You need to meet specific English language proficiency levels such as:
- IELTS: 4.5
- TOEFL iBT: 32–34
- PTE Academic: 30–36
- Cambridge English (CEFR Level B1): PET (Pass) or FCE (Borderline)
- Duolingo English Test: 60–85
- IGCSE/GCSE English: Grade D/3
- NCC English Placement Test: Pass at Level 4.5
Ready to take the next step?
BENEFITS OF SCL INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE
Guaranteed university place upon successful completion of our course.
One-to-one support
Our tutors are highly qualified and have experience teaching international students, so they understand the kind of personal support you may need.
University application assistance
We support each individual student through the process of applying to your chosen universities. Our partner universities guarantee you a place on passing your course.
Preparation for British academic life
A vital part of our programme involves training students to adapt their skills and knowledge to the specific context and environment they will encounter when they are enrolled in undergraduate courses.
State-of-the-art facilities
SCL’s modern classrooms have the latest hardware and software and our libraries offer a flexible space for you to work alone or in groups. Students also have 24/7 access to online resources, study tools and materials.
An international environment
Our team of academic professionals comes from all over the world and will help you develop the social and learning skills required for studying at a UK higher education institution.
Plus, when you stay with us you’ll enjoy a ready-made community of international students from over 65 nationalities!
On-site accommodation
Whether you're attending this course on your own or with friends, we'll always have space for you. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom, kitchenette and optional weekly cleaning and linen service.
We also have an in-house events team who hosts regular activities free of charge.
Small class size
At SCL International College, you'll enjoy our smaller classes for individualised learning, with 5 students average (maximum 12) per class.
Great location in London
We're located in the student capital of the world – London! You'll have easy access to the entire city, major airports and railway stations. Stay with us and you’ll even get discounts to local restaurants, cafés and shops!
A smooth transition to a UK uni
Wondering which course is right for you?