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University Foundation Courses

If you don’t yet qualify to start an undergraduate degree from a UK or US university, consider taking a preparation course. An undergraduate preparation course — also known as a pathway, foundation course or pre-bachelor’s — can help you prepare and qualify for entry to your degree.

These courses provide routes to excellent universities and undergraduate degrees for which you might not otherwise meet admission requirements. You can choose from a wide range of degree subjects and progression universities all over the UK and US, so you can follow your path, your way.

CampusFirst year undergraduate rate (US$)Transfer and graduate student rate (US$)
Downtown Phoenix4,720–5,0955,090–7,250
Polytechnic2,630–4,8852,145–3,450
Tempe3,150–4,8003,670–7,375
West3,3623,705–4,420
Lake Havasu3,025–3,560n/a
2019-20 rates shown are in US dollars, per semester. Exact fees vary based on your chosen housing option and meal plan.

Why might I need a university foundation course?

There are lots of reasons to take a preparation course before starting an undergraduate degree:

  • Meet degree entry requirements

    If you don’t meet the entry requirements to go to a UK or US university directly, undergraduate preparation or foundation courses can help you reach the level needed to start a bachelor’s degree. You’re guaranteed a place at university when you pass your course at the required level with good attendance.

  • Benefit from complete preparation

    Gain the study skills, English language ability and subject knowledge you’ll need for university study. Students who have taken a preparation course often feel more prepared for their university studies than direct entry students.

  • Receive individual attention

    With Kaplan, you’ll get personalised study plans and support for all aspects of student life. Small class sizes and dedicated teachers will help you develop, both academically and personally.

  • Adjust to a new culture

    International study is a great way to experience another culture. A foundation course will help you adjust to the challenges of living and studying abroad, and you’ll be supported at every step.

Anuoluwapo from Nigeria

Anuoluwapo from Nigeria

Foundation Certificate student at Kaplan International College London, UK
 

The classes and teaching style in my pathway course are really great. The teachers are very friendly; even when you ask them silly questions they make you smile. I love the classes here – they make you feel relaxed.

daniel-brazil-liverpool-international-college

Daniel from Brazil

Foundation Certificate student at Liverpool International College, UK
 

I’ve had some wonderful teachers, and I’ve picked up some really important skills for study, particularly relating to essay preparation. I feel like I have adapted to new ways of approaching academic tasks, and feel ready for my university degree.

Where can I study and what are the entry requirements?

  • University foundation courses in the UK

    Take a Foundation Certificate, leading to the 1st or 2nd year of an undergraduate degree at one of our UK university partners.

    Entry requirements vary. Typical requirements are:

    • Academic: at least 11 years of education
    • English language: UKVI IELTS 4.0 to 5.5

    Note: the duration of your preparation course will vary between 5 and 15 months. The course length will depend on your needs and English level.

    Contact us about foundation courses for UK bachelor’s degrees.

  • Undergraduate pathways in the USA

    US pathway programs offer English preparation, study skills and academic credit for progression to Year 1 or 2 of a bachelor’s degree:

     

    Entry requirements vary. Typical requirements are:

    • Academic: completion of high school with minimum GPA 2.0 to 3.0
    • English language: minimum TOEFL 55 to 74

    Note: the duration of your pathway will vary between 4 and 12 months, depending on your level of English language.

    Contact us about pathway programs for US bachelor’s degrees.

How much does an undergraduate degree preparation course cost?

Cost of studying in the UK
Pathway course tuition fees are typically between £12,590 and £25,300, depending on which course you take. See our UK how to apply page for more information about the costs involved in a UK pathways course.

Cost of studying in the USA
The tuition fees of your undergraduate pathway program will depend on which program you study. Visit our US how to apply page for more details about how much it costs to study a USA pathways course.

What subjects can I study at which universities through a foundation course?

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