International Foundation Programme for Medicine
2027 entry
Course summary
The International Foundation Programme (IFP) for Medicine is a one-year programme designed for overseas students (non-UK students) wishing to enter Medicine (MB ChB) degree programmes in the UK, including at the University of Bristol.
The one-year programme will prepare you for future undergraduate studies by broadening your core knowledge in chemistry and biomedical sciences and by providing experiential learning in a healthcare environment. It provides ample opportunities for personal and professional development and for excelling in subject-specific written and spoken English.
Teaching and assessment methods are designed to help you transition to university-level study and become familiar with the types of learning and assessments typically employed on medicine undergraduate degrees in the UK. The programme is taught by highly qualified academic staff at Bristol, and you will receive full access to University facilities.
Health and Conduct
Certain health conditions may be incompatible with some careers in medicine.
If you have a chronic health condition please contact the enquiries team for guidance on making an application.
We have excellent support services available including Disability Services, Students' Health Services and Student Counselling.
All students entering the International Foundation Programme for Medicine must undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, and where necessary a police check.
Progression to Degree Courses
You are not guaranteed to progress directly to the MB ChB Medicine programme at Bristol. All IFP for Medicine students are guaranteed a place in the multiple mini-interview process, however you must still apply to the undergraduate MB ChB Medicine programme via UCAS. To be admitted to the undergraduate MB ChB Medicine programme at Bristol, applicants must both meet the IFP progression requirements and perform successfully in the multiple mini-interviews.
If you do not achieve the MB ChB Medicine entry requirements, we may offer you a place on a Life Sciences degree. You will also be free to apply for medical degrees at other universities.
For more information about the IFP for Medicine, including information about how to apply, visit the International Foundation Programme for Medicine website.
Course structure
The programme consists of four mandatory level three units:
- Foundations of Chemistry
- Foundations in Biomedical Sciences
- Personal and Professional Development for Aspiring Medical Clinicians
- English Language and Academic Skills for Aspiring Clinicians (International).
Entry requirements
We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.
Search international qualifications
Selection process
- Regulations and codes of conduct we abide by to create a positive environment for learning and achievement are found in the University admissions policies and procedures.
- If applying with extenuating circumstances please see our policy.
- Full information about our selection processes for International Foundation Programme for Medicine can be found in the Admissions Statement:
Admissions statement - The admissions statement above relates to 2026 entry. The statement for 2027 entry will be available in summer 2026.