University of Leicester

STEM International Foundation Year

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

The STEM International Foundation Year gives you the essential knowledge and academic skills you need for successful university study. The course places a strong emphasis on the development of essential professional and interpersonal skills to support you in your studies and beyond. Choose from a wide range of degree pathways in the fields of Chemistry, Computing, Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics and Physics; whichever pathway you follow, you will be taught by our expert academic staff from across the University.

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. By successfully completing the STEM International Foundation Year, you will progress onto the first year of your chosen degree.

The STEM 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. You can review some of the qualifications we accept on our countries page and English Language equivalencies.

If your qualification or country is not listed, please contact us for more information, including the name and result of the qualification you have studied. Students registering on the course should normally be 17 years of age by the course start date. We may exceptionally admit applicants who are 16 years of age.

Applications from individuals who are 16 years of age at the date of registration will be considered by the University on a case-by-case basis and determined on their own individual circumstances and merits. The University may require that admission is s

Key highlights

  • Degree pathways across chemistry, computing, engineering, geology, maths and physics
  • Progression onto first year of your chosen degree on completion
  • Taught by expert academic staff from across the university
  • English language and academic skills development built into study
  • Dedicated personal tutor to guide you through your studies
  • Strong emphasis on professional and interpersonal skills development

Entry requirements

  • GCSE: 4 — to include Mathematics, Science
  • Additional condition: minimum_age — 17+ · Age requirements Students registering on the course should normally be 17 years of age by the course start date.

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

  • Chemist
  • Software developer
  • Engineer
  • Environmental scientist
  • Geologist
  • Data analyst

Cost of study

International: £20,750

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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