Students working together in class

International pathway programmes

Leeds International Study Centre offers a range of pathway programmes for international students

What is the international pathway programme?

Choose your pathway programme​

Programmes at Leeds International Study Centre are designed to help you prepare for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds. There are two types of pathway programmes we offer, with multiple subject pathways available in each. 90% of students who completed their pathway programme at Leeds International Study Centre were eligible to progress to a degree course at the University of Leeds in 2024.

Students at the University of Leeds

International Foundation Year

Over two semesters, you will gain the skills needed to enter the first year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.

A student at the University of Leeds

International Year One

Get the academic, language and career support you need to start your degree with confidence and progress to year two of your undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds. This one-year programme helps you adjust to studying in the UK while building valuable skills for your future.

Three students studying together in class

Pre-Masters

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparatory programme designed to improve your English language and academic skills required for successful postgraduate study.

Students smiling and sitting on sofas on campus

Pre-courses

Boost your English skills and prepare for your academic journey with our online courses.

What is an international pathway programme? 

A pathway programme is a preparatory programme that builds your skills and knowledge to the level required to succeed at the University of Leeds. A pathway programme is an excellent way to gain confidence, boost your English language and academic skills, and find a community of like-minded students. 

The programmes introduce you to university-level teaching and help you develop study skills such as research, presenting and writing essays. You will also develop your employability and get support with skills such as time management, communication and problem-solving. 

Achieving the required grades will allow you to successfully complete a pathway programme and progress to your chosen degree at the University of Leeds. 

Why choose us?

Studying an academic course at Leeds International Study Centre gives you the opportunity to:

  • Learn in small classes where you'll get individual attention from expert tutors
  • Take part in tutorials, seminars and lectures so that you know what to expect when you start your degree
  • Get support from tutors and staff, so that you you feel safe, comfortable and confident
  • Expand you knowledge by studying subject modules related to the degree you wish to study
  • Improve your English skills with an English Language course

Need to improve your English?

If you need to increase your IELTS level to meet the English language entry requirements for the International Foundation Year or International Year One courses, you may first be able to study an English Language Preparation online course, also taught at Leeds International Study Centre.

Which foundation is right for you?

Choose to study either at Leeds International Study Centre on programmes delivered by Study Group or select the University of Leeds International Foundation Year delivered on campus by the University of Leeds. The University of Leeds also delivers their own foundation programme taught by University of Leeds academics. Entry requirements differ. For further information please go to leeds.ac.uk/international-foundation-year.

Succeed at university and beyond

Dhionis from Greece

‘‘Leeds International Study Centre helped me with the appropriate skills to be prepared for studying at the University of Leeds.’’

Dhionis from Albania

Studied International Foundation Year in Science, Engineering and Computing

Progressed to Biomedical Science at the University of Leeds

A group of students looking engaged in a classroom.

How to apply

Discover how to apply for a programme at the International Study Centre. You can also find the documents you need to provide alongside your application.

Three students outside in Leeds.

International scholarships

 Explore the scholarship options available for students studying at the International Study Centre. 

A group of students in a Leeds ISC classroom

English language courses

Our online English Language preparation courses will help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin your chosen pathway programme.

Join us today

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!