International Foundation Year in Health and Life Sciences
About this route
The International Foundation Year in Health and Life Sciences leads to a wide range of degrees in biology, chemistry and health science-related subjects at the University of Surrey.
During the International Foundation Year you will study a core unit of general subject skills, and subject-specific units, which are carefully designed for your academic development. You'll study with classmates planning to progress onto widely different degrees within Health and Life Sciences, which means you’ll be working with a range of different people, developing transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving and communication — all valuable attributes when you’re working within a company setting.
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 Health and Life Sciences at the University of Surrey?
World-class academics
The School of Health Sciences, School of Biosciences, School of Medicine, School of Psychology and School of Veterinary Medicine are home to innovative research and inspiring and passionate staff, offering multi-million-pound laboratories, fitted with industry-standard equipment, to prepare you for a scientific career.
Practical work experience
After gaining a solid foundation on our Life Sciences pathway, you can progress to your undergraduate degree to continue developing your academic and employability skills. One way to do this is by taking a Professional Training Placement, where you’ll be able to enter the workforce and put your practical skills to the test. As well as learning even more about your future career, a Professional Training Year is an excellent addition to your CV.
Outstanding graduate outcomes
99% of undergraduate graduates from the School of Health Sciences go on to employment or further study, approximately 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes survey 2025, HESA).
Expect more: health sciences facilities
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.
16th in the UK for Nursing
(QS World University Rankings by Subjects 2026)
Top 5 in the UK
for Paramedic Science and Veterinary Medicine
(Complete University Guide 2026)
8th in the uk
and top 100 in the world for veterinary science
(QS World University Rankings by Subjects 2026)
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.
Please note: the progression degrees BSc (Hons) Nutrition & Dietetics and Health Care-related degrees such as BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Adult Nursing) have additional conditions. Find out more here.
Places for BVMSci Veterinary Medicine and Science are limited. Students must meet Academic and English entry requirements to progress.
Most degrees listed include the option to undertake the Professional Training Placement between year two and three of your degree. You will be able to select the option before you progress to the University. The University of Surrey will provide guidance and support in helping you find the right placement once you start your degree.
Please note, for English grades: W stands for Writing, R is Reading, L is Listening and S is Speaking
| Degree Programme Name | Award | Overall Grade | English Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Results | |||
Study plans
September intake
| IELTS requirement | Length | Sept-Dec | Feb-Jun | Jul-Aug | Sept |
| 5.5 | 2 semesters | International Foundation Year | International Foundation Year | Vacation | Progress to your undergraduate degree |
January intake
| IELTS requirement | Length | Jan-May | May-Aug | Sept |
| 5.5 | 2 semesters | International Foundation Year | International Foundation Year | Progress to your undergraduate degree |
Prepare for Success
Join our online preparation course at no extra cost, so that you are ready to thrive academically and culturally in your new environment.
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