What is the IFP?

Find out more about the International Foundation Programme.

ifp student drinking coffee

The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a full-time, one-year university preparation course, designed to prepare international students for degree-level study within the University of Edinburgh.

We offer three pathways to choose from: 

Two pathway options for those who would like to progress onto a degree within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

IFP Humanities & Social Sciences

IFP Art & Design

One pathway option for those who would like to progress onto a degree within the sciences - either at the College of Science and Engineering or the College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine. (Please note this pathway option is for science degrees only not medicine or veterinary medicine)

IFP Biological, Chemical, Biomedical & Environmental Sciences (BCBES)

This pre-university programme is carefully tailored to give international students the experience and skills required to succeed at undergraduate level and help build confidence with academic English. 

The IFP, which is taught by expert University of Edinburgh academics, is a globally recognised qualification.

The International Foundation Programme is comprised of themed courses designed to help you prepare for undergraduate degree-level study.

Successful completion of the International Foundation Programme will result in progression to an undergraduate degree programme within the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

It is essential that all students are available to participate in the Welcome and Orientation programme in early September. Please note the dates below.

There are many reasons to choose the International Foundation Programme at the University of Edinburgh.

Our International Foundation Programme teachers and support team are committed to helping students thrive throughout their time on the programme.

Whether your problem is personal, academic or a mixture of both, there are many support options for you on the International Foundation Programme.

You will have access to all of the same social, cultural, sporting and support opportunities as the University’s undergraduate students.

Former International Foundation Programme students share more about their experience on the programme here at the University of Edinburgh.