Open to non-EU international students only
is designed for students wishing to pursue a bachelors degree in Business or Economics.
is designed for students wishing to pursue a bachelors degree in Law, Politics and many other areas of the Arts or Social Sciences.
Who are the courses for?
The courses are for international students from outside the EU with a High School leaver certificate – see Entry Requirements.
The courses are suitable for students wishing to apply to bachelors degrees at the University of Nottingham (see Undergraduate prospectus), and also for those looking to apply to other UK universities.
How long is the course?
Each of these Foundation Certificates is a one-year full-time course.
Should I take a Foundation course or take A levels?
If you are doing A levels, you should continue and apply through UCAS to your bachelors programme.
You are only eligible for a Foundation Certificate course if you have not taken A levels or another foundation before, and come from a country with no A level (or equivalent) system.
Which course should I do?
Foundation Certificate in Business - for entry to:
Foundation Certificate in Arts and Social Sciences - for entry to:
You may also apply for entry to other Arts or Social Sciences programmes in Nottingham, but such applications will be considered on an individual basis and offers are not guaranteed.
How will I progress?
The Foundation and bachelors programmes are separate courses. You must therefore apply for your chosen bachelors degree programme during your foundation year, and you will receive help in completing your
UCAS form (the application form for admission to UK university undergraduate programmes) and individual guidance about which universities to apply for.
What is the pass mark?
Conditional offers from the University of Nottingham usually stipulate the following:
Business, Economics, Politics and International Relations, Geography and Law
A distinction grade (70% overall average) with 70% in the English language modules and no less than 60% in any other module.
Other courses
An overall average of 65% with an average of 70% across the English language moduels.
Other universities may set different offer conditions but you will have to pass the Foundation Certificate with merit or distinction to study at the most popular universities.