Our International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a one-year foundation course for international students. The course is fully taught by academics from the University of Reading; it is not delivered by an external provider.
The IFP is our 1+3 year Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) option.
Supporting you to achieve your goals
At Reading, we have been teaching our International Foundation Programme for more than 40 years. Our experienced, knowledgeable staff will support you throughout your time at university.
The IFP at Reading offers more than academic preparation and English language support. It provides a holistic foundation experience, designed to make you a well-rounded student with the skills to succeed at university and life.
As well as developing your academic abilities, the IFP will help you:
- build your confidence in a UK university environment
- develop critical thinking via small group teaching
- strengthen your academic English in the context of your chosen subject
- understand how your chosen degree will be taught.
What you will learn on the IFP
The IFP is split into three pathways:
- Science and Mathematics Pathway
- Business, Management and Finance Pathway
- Social Sciences and Art Pathway.
The pathway you take is determined by the degree you want to study after your foundation year.
Within each pathway, you will study a set of modules closely related to the degree you intend to study as an undergraduate student. The modules you study in your foundation year will prepare you for the modules you will take at undergraduate level.
Each pathway includes compulsory modules that will help you gain the academic and English language skills to succeed at university in the UK.

University of Reading