International Foundation Certificate in Health and Life Sciences
at De Montfort University
The International Foundation (IF) is a level 3 foundation year that is equivalent to A levels. During your programme, you will develop subject-specific knowledge and improve your academic English language skills in preparation for studying at university.
De Montfort University International College
Located at the heart of DMU’s Leicester campus, De Montfort University International College (DMUIC) is a dedicated college for international students to start their studies. We offer integrated and standalone pathway programmes which develop your academic and English language skills.
Our international college is part of the university campus so you will have access to all the same university spaces, facilities and community so you will feel like you are part of the university from the day you start.
- Located on the main university campus
- Small class sizes offering a high-quality academic experience
- Supportive college staff who will help you settle into life as a student at De Montfort University
- University student status from day one with access to sports, societies, campus facilities and the university student services.
Course modules
This module develops English language skills for study and life in the UK, aiming to raise proficiency from IELTS 5.5 to at least 6.0 (or 6.5 for some IYZ pathways). It focuses on reading, writing, listening and speaking in an academic context and prepares students for undergraduate study at DMU. The module is skills-based and aligned with IELTS descriptors. (36Credits) Module Code: LIPCF201
This module supports the transition to British higher education, with a focus on studying at De Montfort University. It introduces key aspects of university life, services and facilities, alongside essential study skills. By the end of the module, students are able to engage effectively with the virtual learning environment, apply transferable study skills, reflect on their experiences through written and oral tasks, and demonstrate improved communication skills and awareness of the opportunities and challenges of university life at the University (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF111
This module aims to support and enhance the key learning elements is studied in the third (final) term of the course, English for Academic Purposes, improve learner self-awareness and give students insight into the use and effectiveness of learner platforms and academic forums. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF133
This module aims to give students the appropriate foundation in mathematics and IT skills for success at undergraduate level specific to health and life sciences. Students’ prior learning in computing and mathematics is consolidated and then enhanced with the introduction of new topics and approaches relevant to study in the UK Higher Education environment. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF020
This module aims to give students the appropriate foundation in computing and numeracy skills for success at undergraduate level. Students’ prior learning in computing and mathematics is consolidated and then enhanced with the introduction of new topics and approaches relevant to study in the UK Higher Education environment. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPC102
This module aims to introduce basic concepts of anatomy, histology and physiology as an integrated experience of theory and laboratory observation. It is intended to serve as a preparation and foundation for histopathology/physiology studies at level 4 and beyond. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF021
This module is designed to introduce students to basic chemical theories which underpin biological activity; the energy and thermodynamics of chemical systems; functional groups and their interconversion; the shapes of selected molecules and their stereochemical relationships and gain an understanding of complex compounds and ions. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF024
The aims of this module are to provide the fundamental aspects of introductory biochemistry necessary for an understanding of the specialised subjects dealt with later in the various Life Science programmes. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF023
This module introduces students to aspects of fundamental microbiology required for studies in Health and Life Sciences at level 4 and beyond. The classes provide a knowledge base on the range, characteristics and properties of micro-organisms.nIntroduction to Psychology (Psychology Only)nThis module introduces students to the main theoretical approaches and perspectives in Psychology. Students are also introduced to psychological and physiological explanations of cognition and human behaviour. Historical developments, treatments and therapies of related case studies such as depression, stress, mental illness and schizophrenia will be considered in context of contemporary issues.nResearch Methods and Ethics (Psychology Only)nThis module introduces students to the basic skills necessary to understand and conduct research in Higher Education. You will gain an understanding of the main scientific research methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and areas of application. You will also gain an understanding of statistical analysis in various contexts.nGovernment and Society (Psychology Only)nThis module aims to provide a foundation of knowledge of the political and social structures of the UK. The focus will be on the Government of the UK (including the impact of the EU), as well as the UK’s social structure. There will be an historical element, highlighting how the UK has changed and developed in the post-war era.nKey InformationnEach module in the programme has its own specific learning outcomes and these can be found further on in this handbook. This section will cover some programme-based outcomes. (12Credits) Module Code: LIPCF022
Meet Bonus, a student from Thailand
My community helped me find a part-time job at Leicester City Football Club, where I could use my content creation skill and my love of football. I love that I can study a degree I’m passionate about while working and learning new skills.
De Montfort University
De Montfort University is based in Leicester, a diverse and welcoming city just over an hour from London. The university offers more than 300 foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate courses, many with professional accreditations, industry links or work placements.
Every year, over 2,700 international students from more than 130 countries choose to study at DMU. The campus is centrally located with a wide range of student accommodation within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy everything Leicester has to offer.
Why choose De Montfort University
Overall Average Student Satisfaction
For arrival, living, learning, and support in the 2024 International Student Barometer rankings.
Top 10 for Postgraduate Study
Postgraduate courses were rated as 8th best overall by students in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025.
Best University
Ranked 25th best university based on student reviews and independent data from Uni Compare.
Entry Requirements for
Pass Baccalauria with a minimum of 60% overall
Pass Licence (Bachelor degree) with a minimum of 60% overall
or
Pass Bachelor of Science (Engineering) degree from Kabul University with a minimum of 50% overall
Direct Entry to DMU
Pass Bachelor of Science (Engineering) degree from Kabul University OR Master’s degree with a minimum of:
70% overall for 2:2 programmes
80% overall for 2:1 programmes
Pass Baccalauria with a minimum of 70% overall or
Pass Technical Certificate with a minimum of 50% overall (or 60% if studied at Kardan Institute of Higher Education)
Direct Entry to DMU
Pass Technical Certificate with a minimum of:
60% overall for 104 point courses
65% overall for 112 point courses
70% overall for 120 point courses
75% overall for 128 point courses
or Pass the Diploma with a minimum of 50% overall (this is equivalent to a Cert HE hence why we would only ask for a
minimum pass)
Pass Baccalauria with a minimum of 60% overall
International Student Fees
You can find the applicable international student course fee for your chosen pathway study route listed below.
| Study Route | Tuition Fees (2025-26) |
|---|---|
| International Year Zero (3 term) | £16,195 |
| International Year One | £16,195 |
| International Foundation Certificate | £16,195 |
| Pre-Masters (2 terms) | £12,650 Engineering only – £12,550 |
| International Year Two | £16,195 |
| Pre-Masters (1 term) | £10,600 |
| International Year Zero (2 term) | Business & Law / Engineering & Computing – £13,700 |
| The April intake International Year Zero (IYZ) 3-Term pathway does not follow the standard progression route. Students will study the International Year Zero (IYZ) from April to December, then progress to the International Year One (IY1) starting in January. Fees for the IY1 stage are not yet confirmed. These fees are expected to be in line with Oxford International pathway fees and will be confirmed closer to the start of the IY1 programme. All pathway fees are subject to annual review and may increase in line with policy, inflation, or regulatory changes. | |
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Fees are not inclusive of scholarships. All applications are subject to a non-refundable admin Fee of £220. Stated fees are for the pathway only. Stated fees do not include tuition applicable for degree course continued at the university, for more information on progression degree fees please visit the university website directly www.dmu.ac.uk/Study/fees-funding/international-tuition-fees |
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*International Year Zero (2 term) is only available for Business & Law and Engineering & Computing pathways. **Pre-sessional English (PSE) fees are in addition to your pathway fee and is not available on all pathways. If PSE is required, you will progress onto the pathway programme once this has been successfully completed. Contact our admissions team for more information. |
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Scholarships at De Montfort University
Up to £6,000 scholarship for 3-term pathways
Up to £4,000 scholarship for 2-term pathways
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to £5,500 scholarship for 1-term pathway
Up to £5,000 scholarship for 2-term pathway
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to £2,500 for the first year of study at De Montfort University
*Conditions apply. Please reach out to your agent or representative for more information
