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International Foundation Year in Business, Finance and Management

What is the International Foundation Year in Business, Finance and Management?

This route leads to a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Leeds, in areas of business, economics, and finance. You will study modules which are carefully tailored for your English and academic development. Find out about the modules you will study and what kind of work you will be undertaking as a part of this pathway.

Key facts

Two semesters

Find out the specific term dates for this programme.

September, November (with Enhanced Induction) or January

Find out more about the entry requirements and course fees for this programme.

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.

This module has been designed to provide students with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of business. As students continue their academic journey, it becomes ever more essential for them to build a strong foundation of knowledge. This foundation will equip students with the confidence and expertise needed to successfully navigate the intricate world of contemporary business. Students will be prepared to tackle complex business challenges, make strategic decisions, and contribute effectively to the success of organisations in diverse industries. This module serves as a crucial stepping stone toward students' future careers in business and management.

This module provides essential knowledge and applications of the principles, and techniques in accounting and financial management. It aims to cultivate problem-solving abilities grounded in logical thinking, methodical data analysis, effective communication and informed decision-making. Attaining a solid grasp of accounting topics within this module equips students with a robust foundation, laying the groundwork for their undergraduate studies at university.

Why study Business, Finance and Management at the University of Leeds?

This International Foundation Year pathway will prepare you to progress on to multiple degrees at the University of Leeds, which is one of the UK’s Russell Group universities. With highly-ranked facilities and dynamic approaches to teaching, some of the benefits that come with choosing to study here are as follows.

Leeds University Business School

Leeds University Business School is a leading, triple-accredited education body (AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS). Academics and professionals make up a world-ranked team who are proud to present their students with the tools to follow on to a successful working career.

Important career insight

Leeds is also ranked among the top 10 UK universities most targeted by graduate employers in the High Fliers Graduate Market Report 2026. The university has strong enterprising links to major businesses come with a degree from the University of Leeds. You'll get support from the dedicated Employability and Opportunity at the Business School, which offers summer internships, mentoring, employer events, and more.

Support tailored to you at the International Study Centre

This programme is designed for international students, with a unique, focused teaching approach put in place to welcome you into the British education system. Your learning will be structured in the same way as University teaching, to wholly support and prepare you for your next step.

University of Leeds subject rankings

Top 10 in the UK for:

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Economics
  • Business, Management and Marketing

(The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)

Top 100 in the world for:

  • Accounting & Finance
  • Business & Management Studies
  • Geography
  • Marketing
  • Social Sciences & Management

(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

Progression Degrees

You will be required to take an Academic English Skills test at the end of your programme, details of English language grade requirements below. This means that once you successfully complete the International Foundation Year, you will be ready to start your degree at the University of Leeds.

Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish GradeGrade Module
No Results

If your progression degree is listed below then you will study either the Law or Business route:

  • Criminal Justice and Criminology
  • Law
  • Politics
  • Global Development 
  • International Relations
  • Sociology
  • Social Policy, Sociology and Crime
  • Social and Political Sciences
  • Childhood Studies
  • Education

For all other degrees you will study on the Business route

I’m becoming a better person

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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.

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International Study Centre

Study abroad programs at the International Study Centre offers opportunities for international students to study in the UK. Discover how to progress to an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.

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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!