University of Leicester

Biological Sciences International Foundation Year

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

The Biological Sciences International Foundation Year gives you the essential knowledge and academic skills you need for successful university study. The course also places a strong emphasis on the development of essential professional and interpersonal skills to support you in your studies and beyond. Biology is the science of life.

From the simplest to the most complex organisms, from the molecular level to the evolutionary development of species, the living world is endlessly complex and fascinating. The Foundation Year gives you the background you need to succeed in your further studies. You will be taught by our expert academic staff from the School of Biological Sciences, who also teach in the later years of our programmes.

On successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will progress onto the first year of the Biological Sciences BSc, from where you will be able to transfer, if you wish, onto one of our other, more specialised Biological Sciences or Medical Biosciences degrees. Biological Science covers major aspects of biology and molecular science across a wide range of organisms from bacteria and fungi to humans and plants, while Medical Bioscience allows you to select specialist modules that focus more closely on the application of biological principles to medicine. You will also develop your English language and academic skills for successful study, and benefit from the support of a dedicated personal tutor to guide you through your studies.

From the day you arrive, you will be part of our student community and able to enjoy all aspects of the University of Leicester student experience. Our Biological Sciences International Foundation Year sets you on the path to degree success and provides the first step towards a rewarding career in your chosen field. See qualifications needed to study the course by your region: Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world.

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Key highlights

  • Taught by expert School of Biological Sciences academic staff
  • Progression onto first year of the Biological Sciences BSc
  • Option to transfer to specialised Biological or Medical Biosciences degrees
  • Develops English language, academic and professional skills
  • Dedicated personal tutor to guide you through your studies

Entry requirements

  • GCSE: 4 — to include Mathematics, Science

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Biomedical scientist
  • Laboratory technician
  • Research assistant
  • Microbiologist
  • Ecologist
  • Science teacher

Cost of study

International: £25,100

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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