International Year Zero in Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
at University of Kent
The International Year Zero (IYZ) is the first year of a four-year integrated degree course. Your first year is taught at the college where you will gain extra skills in your subject area, as well as English Language, before you continue to year one of your chosen undergraduate degree course.
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 Year Zero (IYZ) is the first year of a 4-year International Incorporated Bachelor’s (IIB). Your first year is taught at the University of Kent International College (UK IC). Once you successfully complete this year, you will continue studying the remaining stages of your degree at the University of Kent.
During the three terms encapsulating the IYZ, you’ll gain additional skills in your chosen study route and the necessary English language skills to succeed during your studies.
*April programme subject to academic approval
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
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
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
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.
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-Master | 2-terms – June, December – £12,995 1-term – April, June, September – £10,395 |
| International Year Zero | 2-terms – April – £13,395 January, September – £18,595 |
| International Foundation Programme | 30-week programme – January, September – £18,595 40-week programme – 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.
