International Foundation Programme in Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
at University of Kent
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.
Course Overview
The International Foundation Programme in Computing, Engineering, Mathematical Sciences enables you to understand a range of areas relating to your further degree study. These include Maths, Data Analysis, Computer Sciences, Programming and Digital Design.
The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a level 3 foundation year that is an equivalent qualification to A levels. During your programme, you will develop subject-specific knowledge with a strong focus on improving your academic English language skills in preparation for studying at university.
During the IFP, you’ll gain additional skills in your chosen study route and the necessary English language skills to progress to year one of your chosen university degree course.
University of Kent International College
The University of Kent International College (UK IC) 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 classes offering a high-quality academic experience
- Supportive college staff who will help you settle into life as a student at University of Kent
- University student status from day one with access to sports, societies, campus facilities and the university student services.
Course modules
Nothing is more important than clear and effective communication in making progress in your chosen field of study. High levels of class interaction ensure that you are encouraged and enabled to apply your developing language skills and grow your expertise in the context of your chosen subject of study. Through team-teaching on this module, both language and subject specialists join in supporting you and helping you grow in confidence to tackle future modules on the International Foundation Programme. This module will ensure you reach a high B1 level of English in Preparation for your studies in the next term. nModule Code: KICS3000
English language skills and their development empower you to communicate more effectively in your subject studies. They enable you to listen for information, question the information you’ve received and engage in debates in an academic context, complying with conventions of tone and behaviour. You will learn to appreciate the importance of following good academic practice in all aspects of your work. At the conclusion of the module, you will be able to recognise and confidently use effective communication skills as you move forward in your degree studies.nnModule Code: KICS3100 / KICJ3100
Are you a creative person who is keen to develop the technical skills which enable you to respond to a brief and engage with the problems that might arise in meeting that brief? You will be learning about the creative technologies and how these creative tools are underpinned by conventions and techniques. You will be able to deploy this understanding in responding to the challenges presented by a set brief and research, gather relevant materials and create an artefact that fulfils the requirements of the brief.nnModule Code: KICS3015 / KICJ3015
What are the key influences today on the ways in which we communicate and relate to one another? What differences have you noticed between communication within your culture and communication between cultures? Clear and effective communication is of key importance but how do we ensure that we achieve this? You will learn about different types of communication – verbal and non-verbal – and different world views, often based on ideologies. You will examine the role of the media and of social media in influencing your thinking and will be introduced to qualitative research methods which support the studies that help you understand all you have learned.nnModule Code: KICS3002 / KICJ3002
How are different types of businesses structured for success in a contemporary environment? You will learn about different types of businesses and how they are managed and the importance of key functions within businesses such as strategic planning, finance, marketing and human resource management. You will explore key considerations for businesses wishing to operate successfully today, including their ethical stance, environmental awareness and sustainability.nnModule Code: KICS3010 / KICJ3010
Developing your programming skills is a key requirement for your effective studying of computing. You will learn Python as a programming tool and use this accessible and user-friendly language with its uncluttered syntax as your introduction to the world of programming and coding. The approach within the module is intensely practical and you will undertake a range of exercises which will enable you to provide programming solutions to basic problems, including the modification of code.nnModule Code: KICS3014 / KICJ3014
Are you intrigued by the way in which computers function given their extreme importance within all aspects of our societies and our own lives? The study of Computer Science reveals to you the components and functions of computer systems and opens to you the workings of multimedia, networks including the Internet, processing systems, memory and operating systems. You are able to reflect on the user experience and see how systems’ design needs to take account of users’ requirements. On completing this module you’ll have a understanding of the basics of the subject and be able to communicate this understanding using subject-specific technical language.nnModule Code: KICS3013 / KICJ3013
With your own interest in and enthusiasm for the Arts, how often do you reflect on the creative practices of others and on the work they produce? What an enrichment the Arts provides for us all and how revealing it is and expressive of our societies and our cultures; this is one of the key aspects you will study, drawing on the contextual theories that help us appreciate and interpret artistic output. The study of the work of individual artists, designers and creative professionals helps us understand them and the context in which they were working. You will learn how creative practice might be understood in the context of institutions such as galleries, the cinema and broadcasting media and explained by cultural, ideology and audience theories. Through your studies you will develop a critical academic approach to help inform your own creative practice.nnModule Code: KICS3023 / KICJ3023
How can mathematical techniques inform my work in other modules and how, in particular, can they aid me in my research by supporting a quantitative approach? You will have a refresher through this module in mathematical methods and notation. You will also have the opportunity to engage or re-engage with spreadsheets as an analytical tool. You will also learn how to use these tools in your research when you are confronted with data which you are required to collate, analyse and apply in response to a set problem.nnModule Code: KICS3001 / KICJ3001
Meet Aun, a student from Jordan
I still remember the moment where I left home. That mix of anxiety and excitement. I was going to travel to a new foreign country as an international student … the staff members were tremendously amazing and helped me to feel like I belonged.
University of Kent
The University of Kent is one of the UK’s leading academic institutions, known for world-class research, excellent teaching, and a welcoming global community. With a strong reputation for innovation and academic excellence, Kent supports students to thrive – personally and professionally.
You’ll benefit from expert teaching, tailored support, and opportunities that help you build skills, grow in confidence, and prepare for your future career. Kent is where ambition meets opportunity, where you’ll be encouraged to think independently, explore new ideas, and reach your full potential.
Why choose University of Kent
QS World University Rankings
Ranked 40th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
The Times Good University Guide
Kent is ranked 40th in The Times Good University Guide 2025.
Times Higher Education rankings
Kent is a leading research university, rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. (REF 2021)
Entry Requirements for
12th Grade Graduation Certificate with a minimum of 70% overall-only Selt Test acceptable for English requirement.
12th Grade Graduation Certificate with a minimum of 70% overall-only Selt Test acceptable for English requirement.
12th Grade Graduation Certificate with a minimum of 70% overall-only Selt Test acceptable for English requirement.
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 One | January, September – £18,595 |
| Pre-Masters (2 terms) | June, December – £12,995 |
| International Year Zero (2 term) | April – £13,395 |
| Pre-Masters (1 term) | April, June, September – £10,395 |
| International Year Zero | January, September – £18,595 |
| International Foundation Programme (30 Weeks) | January, September – £18,595 |
| International Foundation Programme (40 Weeks) | September – £18,595 |
| 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. | |
Scholarships at University of Kent
Up to £6,000 scholarship for 3-term pathways
Up to £4,000 for IYZ April intake
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to £3,500 scholarship for 1-term study
Up to £3,500 scholarship for 2-term study
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
Up to 16% scholarship on University of Kent tuition fees per year
Reach out to our admissions team for details about scholarships available to you.
