Why you should consider a foundation year

If you're feeling unsure about starting university or don't quite meet the entry requirements, a foundation year can help build your skills, confidence, and knowledge to succeed in higher education

What is a foundation year at university?

Designed to help students transition into degree-level learning, a foundation year is an additional year of study on an undergraduate programme. As an alternative route for getting into university, a foundation year can ease you into higher education (HE) while providing access to the degree of your choice.

Most foundation years are built into the degree programme, so once you pass, you automatically move into year one of your undergraduate course.

A foundation year helps you to:

• build confidence
• develop academic study skills
• explore your subject area.

What can I study on a foundation year?

Foundation years are available in a range of subjects, and many degrees now offer this as an option. According to the latest Department for Education (DfE) data, 51% of foundation year students opt for business and management courses.

Other popular areas include:

• allied health fields
• engineering
• social sciences
• technology.

Search for courses with a foundation year.

Who should take a foundation year?

If you've been out of education for a few years or are nervous about embarking on a university degree, a foundation year could be ideal for you.

Foundation year students typically fall into one of three groups:

• international students - a foundation year can help you get used to studying in the UK, improve your English skills, and make settling into university much easier.
• mature students - courses provide a supportive and structured return to education, with 64% of foundation year students aged 21 or older.
• school leavers - if you've missed out on a university offer due to exam results or entry requirements, a foundation year allows you to catch up and build the skills to thrive.

How does a foundation year compare to other qualifications?

If you're considering different routes into HE, it's important to understand where a foundation year fits in comparison to other common qualifications.

Foundation year (Level 3/4)

• a one-year course taken before starting a full Bachelors degree
• usually counts as the first year of a four-year degree.

Foundation degree (Level 5)

• a two-year qualification that blends academic study with practical, work-based learning
• can lead directly into employment or be 'topped up' to a full Bachelors degree with an additional year of study.

Bachelors degree (Level 6)

• the standard undergraduate qualification, usually lasting three to four years
• required for many graduate-level jobs or postgraduate courses.

For more details on Levels 2 to 7, explore our guide to qualifications.

How are foundation years taught and assessed?

The foundation year is firmly linked to the degree you'll progress onto.

You're typically taught by tutors who'll be with you throughout your degree. You'll also meet with your peers in the year above, so you'll know what to expect when you move onto a degree.

Teaching approaches include:

• lectures and seminars
• subject-specific modules
• study skills workshops.

At the University of Bedfordshire, for example, the foundation year starts with sessions on goal-setting, transferable skills, academic writing, and core subject areas. The aim is to develop your independent learning, preparing you for success in the years ahead.

You'll also complete the type of assessments you'll be taking in subsequent years, preparing you for what's to come.

Assessment methods vary, but will often involve:

• coursework and essays
• exams or quizzes
• group projects
• participation and attendance
• presentations.

You'll get plenty of support in understanding how the foundation course works and what's needed to reach the required standard. As a foundation year student, you're a university student from the day you register, and will benefit fully from the facilities and opportunities available to all students.

What are the entry requirements?

If you're considering doing a foundation year, you shouldn't be put off because of a lack of formal qualifications. If you have work experience and passion for your subject area, universities will look at your profile and advise whether they can accept you, or what else you need to do prior to starting the course.

The DfE reports that upon entry to a foundation year:

• over half (56%) of students hold a Level 3 qualification, such as A-levels or Highers
• around 10% enter with Level 2 qualifications or below
• nearly 30% begin without any formal qualifications at all.

Not sure if you meet the entry requirements? Explore our tips on clearing for alternative routes into university.

How much does a foundation year cost?

In the 2025/26 academic year, UK tuition fees for foundation years will be capped at:

• £5,760 for classroom-based foundation years like humanities or business
• £9,535 for other subjects such as science or engineering.

Your student loan will cover the full cost of your tuition, including the foundation year. When applying, it's also worth checking with your university to see if any bursaries or scholarships are available to help with additional expenses.

Foundation year tuition fees for international students vary by university and subject area, typically ranging from £15,000 to over £27,000 per year. See our guide to studying in the UK for more details on tuition fees.

What should I consider before applying?

A foundation year can be a great stepping stone into university, but it's important to plan ahead. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• course flexibility - foundation years are usually tied to a specific degree at one university. If you think you might want to change or leave your course later, check how easily your credits could transfer.
• student finance planning - in the UK, students are typically funded for the length of their course plus one extra year. Since a foundation year counts toward this, it's helpful to have a clear plan in case your academic path changes.
• time and cost investment - foundation year adds an extra year to your studies, which means more time to build skills, but also additional tuition and living costs to consider.

How do I apply for a foundation year course?

To find courses that include a foundation year and submit your application, use UCAS or explore our guide on how to apply for university.

Find out more

• Explore how to get into university.
• Take a look at foundation years at the University of Bedfordshire.