A Guide to Foundation Year at the University of Sheffield

What is an “International Foundation Year”? 

An international foundation year is a preparational academic year that takes two to three terms to complete. During this year, you will be introduced to multiple academic subjects, study skills and English language courses that will help you to transition more easily to your undergraduate degree. Upon completion, you can easily enrol in the major you prefer. 

Foundation Year in the University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield offers a foundation year that helps students gain multiple skills that prepare them better for university. In the foundation year, you will get to: 

1. Improve your English language skills:

If English is not your mother tongue, then a foundation year is surely going to prepare you for English Communication. Almost all universities require you to be at a specific language proficiency so you can fully understand and communicate in class and during your studies. The foundation year helps you to improve your research skills, essay writing and academic writing skills, and even your listening and speaking skills. At the University of Sheffield, to enter the foundation year, you must have Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.0 with minimum 5.0 in writing (minimum of 4.0 in other skills) to qualify for the Three-term programme, and an Academic IELTS for UKVI 6.0 (minimum 5.0 in all skills), or equivalent to qualify for the Two-term programme. Don’t worry! If you don’t meet those requirements, you can also study a pre-sessional English course at the University of Sheffield. For more information about taking those courses just click on this link.

2. Choose Your Major

Pursuing a degree is not an easy task, but all you need to know is what field you want, and the foundation year is going to help you find the major you are passionate about and what you excel at. For example, at the University of Sheffield if you wish to study the field of Business, Social Science and Humanities during your foundation, then you will be able to choose from the modules: Business and Management, Economics, Social Sciences, Society and Environment, and Law and Society.

On the other hand, if you choose to study Science and Engineering, then you will be able to pick from Physics and Physical Engineering, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Biological and Life Sciences modules. These programs are surely going to give you a head start in your degree programme. If you want to explore more modules, you can follow this link. 

3.  Learn New Skills

The international foundation year is going to provide you with hands-on experience in your preferred major. Not only will you receive an introduction to the subjects you can study, but you will also get to learn great study skills such as giving presentations, problem-solving and group research skills. It helps introduce students to the style of university teaching in the UK, their tutorials, seminar classes and group sessions.

Foundation year is going to be your stepping stone for university success; we recommend you make the most of it and grasp all the new information and activities you experience. You can make lifelong friends, develop your personality and improve your language skills. To make the most of your experience abroad, don’t forget to book a student accommodation near your university. A comfortable home away from home is what you need during your foundation year.