International Foundation Programme (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
2026 entry
Course summary
The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics pathway of the International Foundation Programme at the University of Bristol provides students with a comprehensive preparation for undergraduate study. You will learn in an immersive, small classroom environment with University academics, including completing laboratory work in biomedical sciences, chemistry, or physics, where appropriate. Our small classroom teaching environments mean that all students receive extensive support and attention. You will learn in a friendly and vibrant environment with enthusiastic teaching staff and have access to all resources for students at the University of Bristol, including student study spaces, library resources, Global Lounge, and a wide range of online resources to supplement your learning.
As the year progresses, your work on learning your academic subjects is supported by a comprehensive English for Academic Communication unit that focuses on academic communication in STEM disciplines to best prepare you for undergraduate study in these topics. You will engage in University of Bristol Research Themes, exploring areas of research relevant to your interests. This will give you access to how some of the world’s leading experts in disciplines of relevance to you communicate their research. As well as developing your academic communication skills and competencies, these activities will help you learn about academic life at Bristol and help you choose your areas of interest for your future studies and career. As part of the activities over the year, you will learn more about your undergraduate programme.
Your studies are supported by an academic personal tutor programme that will empower you to remain on target for your progression goals. We focus on your personal and professional development throughout the year, working with you to develop your understanding of study in the UK and at Bristol, your goals and career ambitions, and on building your networks and capacity for study at university. This is complemented by support from a dedicated Senior Personal Tutor and Academic Advisors.
Course structure
All students on the International Foundation Programme (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) will complete a unit on English for Academic Communication in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, developing their academic language and communication skills as appropriate for their disciplinary interests.
Students who plan to progress to undergraduate study in the engineering, mathematical, computing, and physical sciences will take units developing their techniques in mathematics, as well as algebra and calculus, and depending on their undergraduate degree programme, specialise by taking units selected from Foundations of Physics, Foundations of Chemistry, Foundations of Computer Programming, and Foundations of Statistics.
Students who plan to progress to undergraduate study in the life, health, and geographical sciences will take units in Foundations of Biomedical Sciences, as well as a unit developing their research and data skills, and depending on their undergraduate degree programme, specialise by taking units selected from Foundations of Chemistry, Foundations of Statistics, and Foundations of Psychology.
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.
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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 (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) can be found in the Admissions Statement:
Admissions statement