The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a full-time, one-year programme, and is designed to prepare international students for undergraduate degree-level study at the University of Edinburgh. It provides a route for applicants whose high school qualifications are not currently accepted for direct undergraduate entry, and whose first language is not English. You will join the Biological, Chemical, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences (BCBES) IFP, and if successful, you’ll be able to progress on to the first year of a wide range of degrees in the College of Science & Engineering and College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine. [For details of the degrees accessible from this programme, please visit: https://cahss.ed.ac.uk/international-and-study-abroad/foundation-programme] The IFP offers a range of science courses in areas such as human biology, animal biology, environmental science, molecular biology and organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, with dedicated laboratory time where you will develop both your scientific knowledge and practical skills. The specific courses you take will depend on the undergraduate degree you plan to pursue. You will also study a course in the data, mathematical and research skills relevant for your chosen area. You’ll also take core courses in academic English. In addition, if you’ve already met the English language requirements for your degree programme, you’ll be able to learn an additional modern language that you haven’t previously studied. Our courses have been carefully designed to give you the best possible start to your university learning experience. All are taught by our expert academic team and will help you to build the skills and knowledge you need. Teaching methods will prepare you for those used at undergraduate level and will include laboratory practicals, lectures and tutorials. You’ll primarily study in small, interactive classes with an emphasis on developing and applying research and academic skills. You’ll be able to measure your progress through regular feedback from your teachers and from supported assessments. This approach will enable you to reflect on your own academic and personal development and growth. All teaching for the 2026/27 academic year is planned to take place in-person. As an IFP student, you’ll also benefit from a specialist support system. This includes social and information events held throughout the academic year, along with a dedicated student adviser for help with any wellbeing, health or non-academic matters. You’ll also have access to all the University’s academic, social and sporting facilities. This includes full membership of Edinburgh University Students’ Association and its wide range of societies. The University of Edinburgh is consistently one of the best universities in the world, ranked 27th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, and 4th in the UK for research power. As an IFP student, you’ll be joining a vibrant community of international students in one of the world’s most beautiful and historic cities. You can view more details about the programme and its courses on our website https://cahss.ed.ac.uk/international-and-study-abroad/foundation-programme
We require applicants to complete an approved secure English language test (SELT) for entry to this programme. Our approved SELTs meet our English language proficiency requirements and the minimum standard for Student Visas. Accepted tests and scores are: • IELTS for UKVI with overall score of 5.5 or above with at least 5.5 in each component (normal IELTS will not be accepted, you must have an IELTS for UKVI certificate). • PTE Academic UKVI SELT with 54 overall and 54 in each component. Your English language qualification must be no more than two years old from the start date of the programme. To be eligible to be considered for entry to the programme, you must be an international student: You should be expecting to achieve excellent grades in your high school leaving qualifications or have already achieved excellent grades within the last four years. See entry requirements link for more information. — The University of Edinburgh welcomes students from the UK and all over the world. We accept a wide range of qualifications and our policies support students with diverse backgrounds and experience. UCAS entry grade data is currently not available for our degrees but we publish admissions statistics on our website. We also provide information on widening access offers and entry requirements.
Scotland - Scottish students must apply to the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) for payment of their tuition fees. England/Wales/Northern Ireland - The Rest of UK (RUK) students commencing or continuing their studies in September 2027, the tuition fees will be £10,050. EU On 9th July 2020 the decision was made by the Scottish Government to end free university tuition for European Union (EU) students starting in 2021-22. Funding policy for EU nationals and associated groups starting a course of study in academic year 2022-23 or later will be in line with international fees. Full time international and EU students will pay a fixed annual fee rate for the duration of their programme — 2027 Classroom
Comparing courses? Match them against your grades.
Open the course explorer