University Foundation courses offer students a fast track, one-year route to a wide range of British and other international university degree courses as an alternative to A Levels.

These courses are specifically designed for overseas students who have a high school certificate or other academic qualifications which may not be recognised by British or other universities.

A Level courses may be inappropriate and time-consuming for such students. These courses not only provide the passport to gain university entry, but also help students to understand any differences in the curriculum, acclimatise to the UK, and improve their English.

Abbey College students on Foundation courses have received offers to 60 different UK universities and HEIs, including 19 of the top 30 in the latest university rankings.

Minimum Age: 16

Start Dates: September and January. Other times by arrangement.
Course Length: Normally 3 terms. Possibly 2 terms for January entry.

Hours per week: 16 plus private studies

Number in Class: Maximum 15, though the average is 7.

Course Content: Study Skills, Information Technology, Mathematics and English where necessary, plus subject-specific lessons.

Course Progression: University.

Computing

The Computing Foundation programme provides a basic foundation for computer understanding and information technology at university. It ensures a full understanding of the key Microsoft packages and includes a framework of programming skills.