Engineering student in class

International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing 

About this route

The International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing leads to a wide range of degrees in computing, engineering, physics, science and mathematics-related subjects at the University of Surrey.

During the International Foundation Year you will study a core unit of general subject skills, subject-specific units and elective units, which are carefully designed for your academic development.

If you need to improve your English language to reach the required level for your International Foundation Year, you can take our Online English Language Preparation programme.

Why study Engineering, Science and Computing at the University of Surrey?

A range of specialisms

With the foundation of knowledge you'll gain on the International Foundation Year, you’ll be prepared to find your specialism once you progress to the University of Surrey. Engineering students can discover everything from aerospace and biomedical engineering to civil and electronic engineering. Whilst science students can find their passion with everything ranging from computing to physics. 

International research opportunities

The University of Surrey is at the forefront of research in a whole range of industries. As part of your studies you’ll have access to cutting edge research facilities to ensure you’re learning as new developments happen. 

Practical work experience

The International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Computing introduces you to both the academic and career skills you’ll need in the graduate job market. To build on this, once you progress to the University you’ll be able to join a Professional Training Year to practice your skills in a real working environment. You will be able to select the option before you progress to the University. The University of Surrey will provide guidance and support in year one and two in helping you to find the right placement.

Core modules

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at the partner University.

The Statistics with Project Skills module aims to develop students’ statistical competence in Semester 1 and to apply research, collaborative, and investigative skills in Semester 2 through a structured sustainability-focused project. The module integrates quantitative reasoning with authentic project-based inquiry to prepare students for undergraduate study.

The module is divided into two integrated phases. In Phase 1, students develop core statistical knowledge and techniques through structured disciplinary problem-solving. In Phase 2, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase builds directly on the subject knowledge and analytical skills developed in Semester 1.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics & Finance and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills.

Elective modules

This module introduces the essential principles and concepts of computer science to students with diverse backgrounds, aiming to prepare them for further undergraduate studies in this field. By engaging with this module, students will cultivate their computational thinking abilities, which will enable them to approach real-world systems and their own creations with creative, analytical, and logical perspectives. Moreover, students will acquire foundational programming skills and will create a programme, applying the principles, techniques, and methodologies learned throughout the module in a practical context.

The chemistry module is a comprehensive course that establishes a strong foundation in chemistry principles. The module covers fundamental topics in atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, and thermodynamics. Through analysis of theoretical models, case studies, and quantitative data, students gain a deep understanding of chemistry.

This module is a cornerstone for students' future studies in chemistry, as it provides them with the analytical and problem-solving skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both academic and professional settings. Chemists are in high demand in a variety of fields, including medicine, materials science, and environmental science. The Chemistry Module equips students with the skills they need to contribute to these and other important fields.  

The Physics module provides international students with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics. Through a combination of seminars, experiments, and discussions, students will gain a deep understanding of physics and develop the skills they need to succeed in further study and careers in science and engineering. Topics covered include waves, materials, mechanics, fluids, electrical circuits, and atomic physics. Students will learn about the fundamental laws of physics and how these can be applied to the real-world scenarios. Students also enhance their English language skills through academic writing and discussions. This module prepares international students for further studies and careers in science and engineering.

Key facts

Course length:
Two semesters

Entry points:
September, November (Enhanced Induction) and January

Age: you must be at least 17 years old to study at the International Study Centre and progress to the University.

Visit our entry requirements page for a list of academic, English language and country/region-specific entry requirements.

Rankings

14th in the World and 4th in the UK for Engineering – Petroleum
(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

10th in the UK for Aerospace Engineering
(The Guardian University Guide 2026)

Student success

Progression degrees 

This programme can lead to one of the undergraduate degrees in the table below. Grades and progression degrees are guidelines and subject to change. All degrees listed include the option to undertake the Professional Training Year programme in year two of a four year degree.

Please note, for English grades: W stands for Writing, R is Reading, L is Listening and S is Speaking

Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish Grade
No Results

Please note:

Additional entry criteria may be required as well as an interview with the Department for progression to Film Production and Broadcast Engineering.

Study plans

September intake

IELTS requirementLengthSept-DecFeb-JunJul-AugSept
5.02 semestersInternational Foundation YearInternational Foundation YearVacationProgress to your undergraduate degree

January intake

IELTS requirementLengthJan-MayMay-AugSept
5.02 semestersInternational Foundation YearInternational Foundation YearProgress to your undergraduate degree
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