Our foundation and Pre-sessional programmes prepare international students for degree-level study in the UK. We support our students with courses in English language and academic skills, and also offer a range of short courses for visiting overseas students and teaching staff.
The International Programmes team has been welcoming international students to Kent for 40 years and we are members of the University Pathway Alliance. We have an excellent track record of supporting students to progress to their chosen degrees. In addition to the Pre-sessional and foundation courses we offer, we provide ongoing support in English language and academic skills, to ensure that our international students are able to get the very most from their studies at Kent.
Our programmes
International Foundation Programme
The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a one-year full-time course designed to prepare you for undergraduate study in the UK. The autumn IFP runs over three terms and starts in September. We also offer an accelerated IFP starting in January. We offer guaranteed progression to over 300 degree programmes at Kent, providing you meet the progression requirements. Find out more about the IFP.
Pre-sessional courses
Our Pre-sessional courses take place before you start your degree at Kent. Courses of 16, 10, 6 and 4 weeks are available. They focus on developing your English language and study skills so you can meet the level of proficiency needed for your degree. We also run a free week-long course for exchange students arriving at Kent in the autumn term. Find out more about Pre-sessional courses.
We also offer the Junior Year Abroad English PLUS. On this programme, you complete a 16-week Pre-sessional course to develop your English language and study skills. You then spend one or two terms studying subject modules chosen from our undergraduate degree programmes. Find out more about the Junior Year Abroad English PLUS.
English Language and Academic Skills
To ensure our international students are able to get the most from their degree studies, we run modules to develop English language and academic skills such as essay writing, giving presentations and using sources appropriately. These run alongside your degree programme. We also offer elective, credit-bearing modules in the use of academic English. Find out more about our modules on English language and academic skills.
I liked that I made many friends during my IFP and the fact that we were all from different countries and different backgrounds. The IFP was very diverse which made settling into university a little less challenging.
Short courses
We offer short courses, usually during the summer, for:
visiting overseas students from schools and universities, providing opportunities to improve language skills and enjoy a taste of life in the UK
visiting groups of academics and teachers
English language teachers who wish to learn more about teaching methodology
health professionals.
On campus, blended and online delivery are all available.
Additionally, we are delighted to host visiting faculty who wish to deliver their own short programmes. We can also provide tailored consultancy services and training in English language teaching and communication skills - please contact us for more information.
International perspectives
With our diverse community of staff and students, we are committed to promoting intercultural awareness and global citizenship. Find out more about how we can help you to develop an international perspective at Kent.
