Structure and Content

Our International Foundation year is a pre-undergraduate Programme comprised of preparation courses designed to help you thrive at undergraduate degree-level study.

IFP students laughing together in a classroom

The IFP in 2026/2027

On the International Foundation Programme (IFP), you will take courses specifically designed to help you prepare for entry to university.

Teaching for the 2026/27 academic international foundation year will be in-person, at the University of Edinburgh’s Central Campuses. 

We are offering three international foundation programmes (via 3 different pathway options) to choose from depending on what you'd like to go on to study at undergraduate level - IFP Art & Design, IFP Humanities & Social Science and IFP STEM.

Courses for 2026/2027

All of the courses on this international foundation year have been designed to help you develop the skills you need for successful study at university. We’ll build on the skills you already have, from reading and writing to time management and critical thinking. We’ll also help you to improve your academic English, and you’ll deepen your subject knowledge and skills.

There are compulsory courses, which you must take, and a number of options which you can select depending on your intended degree and your interests. 

Teaching & Assessment

Our classes are taught by expert and supportive University of Edinburgh academics, using the teaching methods you’ll experience on your degree. This means that you will attend lectures and smaller classes where you’ll be expected to discuss ideas and ask questions. 

The learning environment and assessments will also help you to prepare for university-level study.

View Our IFP Pathway Options Below:

Humanities & Social Science Pathway (including Business, Economics, Law, Literature, Politics and Sports Science)

Courses for those studying on the Humanities and Social Science pathway, which will allow you to progress on to a number of different undergraduate degree programmes including (but not limited to) Business, Economics, Law, Literature, Politics and Sports Science.

View our full list of degree progression routes that this pathway offers via the link below:

Progression routes to degree level study >


Art & Design Pathway (including Architecture)

Here are the courses that you will take if you are studying on the Art and Design Pathway, which includes a route to degree level study in subjects such as (but not limited to) Architecture, Fashion, Film and Television and Product Design.

View our full list of degree progression routes that this pathway offers via the link below:

Progression routes to degree level study >


Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Pathway

Here's information about the IFP Biological, Chemical, Biomedical & Environmental Sciences (BCBES) Pathway.

View our full list of degree progression routes that this pathway offers via the link below:

Progression routes to degree level study >


IFP Humanities & Social Science

IFP Art & Design Pathway

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