International Foundation Year

The International Foundation Year is the first stage of a four-year undergraduate degree, designed for international students who would benefit from additional academic preparation and English language development before starting their degree.

The programme typically consists of a one-year Foundation Year followed by a three-year undergraduate degree. Students will require separate visas for their pathway programme and future degree studies.

Each pathway offers a range of progression routes linked to students' chosen degree subjects. While pathways vary in subject focus, all students complete a 120-credit Foundation Year. 

Key information

• Duration: 4 years (1 year pathway + 3 years degree)
• Start dates: January 2027
• Pathway tuition fee: £17,000 - £17,500
• Pathway English language requirement: IELTS 4.5 with no less than 4.0 in each component (UKVI SELT required).

Study routes to Sheffield Hallam University

Pathways

• Business, Law and Social Studies
• Computing and Engineering
• Health and Life Sciences

Business, Law and Social Studies

Key information 2026/27

• Duration: 4 years (1 year pathway + 3 years degree)
• Location: Sheffield
• Start dates: January
• Pathway tuition fee: £17,000
• English language requirement: IELTS 4.5 with no less than 4.0 in each component (UKVI SELT required).

Overview

This study route prepares international students for successful undergraduate study at Sheffield Hallam University, by combining subject-specific knowledge with essential academic and professional skills. Students are introduced to key concepts and contemporary issues while developing their English language, research, digital and critical thinking abilities.

Through collaborative projects, presentations and interactive learning, students develop intercultural awareness and the confidence to engage in a UK university environment. Successful completion provides a pathway to a wide range of degree programmes, including:

• Business and Marketing
• Economics
• Finance
• Airline and Events Management
• Politics
• Sociology
• Law and
• Environmental Management.   

Computing and Engineering

Key information 2026/27

• Duration: 4 years (1 year pathway + 3 years degree)
• Location: Sheffield
• Start dates: January
• Pathway tuition fee: £17,000
• English language requirement: IELTS 4.5 with no less than 4.0 in each component (UKVI SELT required).

Overview

This study route in Computing and Engineering prepares international students for undergraduate study by developing core knowledge in computing, engineering and technology-related disciplines. Students are introduced to fundamental concepts, theories and principles while gaining practical experience in areas such as programming, applied data analysis and digital technologies.

The programme also strengthens English language, academic, digital and professional skills, helping students adapt confidently to a UK higher education environment. Successful completion provides the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to progress to a range of computing and engineering degree programmes.

Health and Life Sciences

Key information 2026/27

• Duration: 4 years (1 year pathway + 3 years degree)
• Location: Sheffield
• Start dates: January
• Pathway tuition fee: £17,500
• English language requirement: IELTS 4.5 with no less than 4.0 in each component (UKVI SELT required).

Overview

The International Foundation Year in Health and Life Sciences prepares international students by developing a strong foundation in biomedical sciences and health-related disciplines. Students are introduced to key concepts, theories and principles that underpin modern healthcare and life sciences while strengthening their English language, academic and professional skills.

Through engaging and applied learning activities, students build confidence, develop the knowledge, critical thinking and independent learning skills needed to succeed in a UK university environment. Successful completion provides a solid foundation for progression to a range of degree programmes in health, life sciences and related professional fields.