International Foundation in Business, Humanities and Social Sciences

What will I study?

Core modules:

Specialist modules:

If you choose to study Further Mathematics for Engineering and Science you must take Foundation Mathematics for Engineering and Science. Otherwise, if you choose a mathematics module you must study Foundation Mathematics for Business, Humanities and Social Sciences.

How will I be assessed?

Progress is monitored by continuous assessment of coursework and by the use of class tests. The final grade for each unit is based on a mixture of coursework and end-of-course examinations.

Successful students will achieve grades A*, A, B, C or D for each of the four units.

Assessment will be by:

• Coursework (prepared assignments, unit tests, experimental reports, computer use).
• Mid-course and end-of-course examinations.
• Formal assessment of levels and progress in English is through NCUK's English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme.

Assured progression

Successful completion of the International Foundation will guarentee you a place on an undergraduate degree course at Queen's University Belfast.

Assured progression depends on:

• Passing all the subject modules with the grades required by your intended degree. You can download the Progression tables below.
• Passing the English for Academic Purposes module with at least a C - you may need a higher grade depending on your intended degree.

How do I qualify?

When can I start?

Is accommodation included in the fees?

Accommodation is not included in the fees. View our accommodation options.

How do I pay?

You can pay by bank transfer or by credit card. Please contact us for bank transfer details.

What's the difference between the 3, 4 and 5 term course?

The 4 and 5 term courses have additional terms of English language tuition at the beginning and will typically have a lower English language entry requirement.

Where will it take me?

Click here for full progression grade details.

This course leads to the following Bachelors degrees at Queen's University Belfast:

** Indicates courses where a sandwich year is optional or where it is normally a required element of the degree programme, but international students can be exempted from it. Students undertaking a year of professional experience (sandwich year) do not need a work permit as long as the placement is in the UK. Students who do not take the year of professional experience are transferred to an equivalent programme without the extension 'with Professional Experience' in the title.

How do I apply?

What is the deadline for applications?

We're happy to accept students right up to when our courses begin, as long as there are places available. We recommend you apply as early as possible as courses fill up quickly. Enquire now to check availability.

Step 1: Complete the Application form

You can complete an online application form or download and print the PDF application form at the bottom of this page. You must include the following information:

• Personal contact details
• Next of kin details
• Proposed further study programme

Need help with the application form? Watch a video help guide - available in English, Chinese and Arabic:

Step 2: Submit the Application

The INTO Admissions office will only process complete applications so please ensure you provide all of the following documents with your application:

•  Copy(ies) of your academic transcripts and certificates from the last three years of study, including:
• A copy of your most recent Secure English Language Test (SELT) certificate. This test can be one of the following accepted English language tests: IELTS/TOEFL ibt/ Pearson PTE, Cambridge ESOL and must have been taken within the last two years prior to the start date of your intended academic programme. We will need to see the original certificate along with an English translated version school stamp or agent stamp.
• For English Language programmes you will just need to provide your SELT certificate
• For General English courses you will need to provide a copy of your passport

If you are applying by post please send your completed application package, including copies of your supporting documents listed above directly to us at:

INTO Queen's University Belfast Admissions

1 Gloucester Place
Brighton
BN1 4AA
United Kingdom

The INTO Admissions team will assess your complete application and will contact you within two working days with either an answer or an offer.

Step 3: Confirm your place

If you receive a Conditional or Unconditional offer from us, the offer will contain all the details needed for you to confirm your place on the course. 

The most common way to confirm your place, will be to:

• Sign all forms relating to your course (course acceptance, accommodation, insurance, and under-18 forms)
• Pay the tuition and accommodation deposit (along with the insurance fees if you haven't got your own insurance policy
• Once you've paid the deposit (and have received proof of your payment from your bank) please send a copy of the payment to us so we can find and allocate your payment to your student record
• Attach all the acceptance forms along with proof of payment, to an email and send it to us

Once the payment has cleared, you will be sent a confirmation pack from us, including; The relevant course information to help you with your visa application, course and accommodation confirmation, your updated statement and an invoice which will show any remaining fees still to pay before the start date of your course.

Step 4: Apply for your visa

If you are unsure of which visa type you need you can have a look at our Useful Information page or visit the UK Border Agency website.

Please keep us updated on your visa application process. If for any reason your visa application is delayed or rejected, please contact us as soon as possible.

Please note that INTO employees cannot give you advice on your visa, you will need to speak to your local embassy or the British Council. 

Step 5: After you've received your visa

Once you've received your visa and arranged your flight to the UK, please contact us to make sure you have paid the full outstanding balance of your course, at least 4 weeks before you arrive.

You will then receive your final statement along with your pre-departure guide, listing all information you need about your chosen INTO Centre, the partner University and what to do when you arrive in the UK.

Visit our before you arrive page for more information.

If at any time you get stuck or have any problems that will delay your arrival, please contact us.