NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at Abbotsholme
Your Pathway to Global Universities
Overview
The NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at Abbotsholme School is a specialised one-year programme designed to prepare international students for undergraduate study at top universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and beyond. Recognised by NCUK’s 50+ partner universities, including the University of Manchester, University of Bristol, and the University of Auckland, this programme combines rigorous academic training with personalised support to ensure student success.
At Abbotsholme, we enrich the NCUK IFY experience with:
- Farm-to-Table Learning: Leveraging our 140-acre campus, students apply STEM and business concepts through hands-on projects in sustainable agriculture, blending theory with real-world practice.
- Outdoor Leadership: Our signature Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme builds resilience and teamwork—qualities valued by NCUK’s Russell Group partners.
- Personalised Mentorship: Each student is paired with an academic tutor from Abbotsholme’s senior faculty, ensuring tailored guidance aligned with their target degree (e.g., engineering vs. business).
- Global Community: Join a diverse student body from 20+ countries, with cultural integration activities like our annual International Festival.
Key Features of the Programme:
- Guaranteed entry* to NCUK partner universities upon successful completion.
- Tailored academic pathways in Business, Engineering, Science, or Humanities - with options to incorporate Abbotsholme’s specialist facilities (e.g., equestrian centre for veterinary science applicants).
- Integrated English language training (IELTS waiver available), delivered by our EAL specialists who also prepare students for university interviews.
* Subject to meeting entry requirements and NCUK Guarantee terms, for more information see link https://www.ncuk.ac.uk/guarantee/
Programme Structure:
Study Pathways:
Pathway 1: Business Studies Pathway
- Business Studies
- Economics
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP): Develops critical writing, presentation, and research skills.
- Mathematics for Business
Pathway 2: Computer Science Pathway
- Computer Science
- Physics
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP): Develops critical writing, presentation, and research skills.
- Mathematics for Science / Engineering
Assessment
- Coursework (40%) + Examinations (60%)
- Graded on a scale of A to E* (A* = 90%+).
Progression Routes
Successful students gain direct entry to Year 1 of bachelor’s degrees at NCUK universities, such as:
- UK: University of Leeds, University of Birmingham, etc.
- Global: University of Sydney, Trinity College Dublin, etc.
(See full list of NCUK Partner Universities: https://www.ncuk.ac.uk/support-advice/pre-departure/ncuk-universities/ )
Brochure in English (please add brochure in English here)
Brochure in Chinese (please add brochure in Chinese here)
FAQs:
Why Choose NCUK IFY at Abbotsholme?
- Small Class Sizes: Individual attention from expert tutors.
- Campus Life: Access to Abbotsholme’s sports, arts, and boarding facilities.
- Holistic Support: Visa guidance, pastoral care, and university placement counselling.
Entry Requirements
- Academic: Equivalent to UK A-Levels (Year 12) with strong grades in relevant subjects.
- English: IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent); lower scores may enrol with extended English support.
- Age:17+ by programme start.
Application Process:
- Step 1: Submit school transcripts and English test results.
- Step 2: Interview with Abbotsholme’s NCUK Coordinator / Academic Manager.
- Step 3: Receive conditional offer.
Can I apply to non-NCUK universities?
Yes, but guaranteed entry only applies to NCUK partners.
Is accommodation provided?
Yes, boarding options are available for international students.
For enquiries, email admissions@abbotsholme.co.uk or call +44 (0)1889 590217.