International Year One Guide – What You Need To Know

The International Year One (IYO) is a one-year (3-term) programme which offers successful students a pathway to Year 2 of university. It helps you gain entry into various UK degree programmes if you don’t meet the initial entry requirements. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about this programme, and also introduce some recommended International Year One courses for international students.

international year one guide

Share This Article

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email

Table of Contents

What Is International Year One?

International Year One (IYO) is a one-year university preparation course in the UK for students who have finished high school but don’t meet direct entry requirements for a bachelor’s degree. It combines academic and English language training with subject-specific study, allowing students to progress directly into the second year of a related undergraduate degree (guaranteed entry) if they pass with the required grades and attendance.

What Do You Learn In International Year One?

In the International Year One, students typically study 3 to 4 academic subjects aligned with their chosen degree pathway, alongside intensive English language training. The curriculum focuses on subject-specific content, academic English, and essential university skills such as essay writing, research, presentations, and critical thinking.

What Is The Duration Of International Year One?

The duration is approximately one year and lines up exactly with entry into second year of the chosen degree programme.

Who Is International Year One For?

This course is perfect for STPM/A Level/IB/Diploma students who have missed the cut for direct entry into university or did not meet the entry requirements.

Requirements For International Year One

Entry requirements for an International Year One (IYO) in the UK typically include:

1) Academic: Completion of at least 12 years of education

2) English language: A UKVI IELTS score between 4.0 and 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. As students get to progress directly into second year of university upon completion, the IELTS requirements are typically higher than foundation courses.

The length of the IYO programme can range from 6 to 18 months, depending on your English level and academic background.

Example for a Malaysian student:

A student who has completed SPM with strong results or finished one year of STPM or a recognised college foundation programme may be eligible for an IYO.

If the student has a UKVI IELTS score of 5.0, they might qualify for a standard IYO, while a lower score like 4.0 could require a longer course with more English support.

How Much Does International Year One Cost?

The cost of an International Year One (IYO) programme in the UK varies depending on the institution, subject area, and course duration. Tuition fees start from approximately £15,140. Specific programmes may have higher fees.

Recommended International Year One Courses

1. University of Exeter: International Year One in Engineering

The University of Exeter offers an IYO in Engineering, designed for students aiming to progress to the second year of various engineering undergraduate degrees. This programme covers fundamental engineering principles and enhances English language proficiency, providing a solid foundation for further studies. Successful completion allows progression to degrees such as BEng Civil Engineering, BEng Mechanical Engineering, and BEng Electronic Engineering.
exeterisc.com

2. Cardiff University: International Year One in Business Management

Cardiff University’s International Year One in Business Management is tailored for students seeking to enter the second year of a business-related undergraduate degree. The programme focuses on developing business knowledge, academic skills, and English language proficiency. Upon successful completion, students can progress to degrees like BSc Business Management, BSc Business Management (Marketing), and BSc Business Management.

3. University of Sheffield: International Year One in Economics

The International Year One in Economics at the University of Sheffield International College is a two-semester programme that prepares international students for direct entry into the second year of an undergraduate economics-related degree. It combines subject modules like macroeconomics and mathematical methods with academic English and study skills, all taught in a university-style environment. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills essential for success in the field. Upon completion with the required grades and attendance, students progress to degree programmes at the University of Sheffield’s School of Economics.

4. Royal Holloway, University of London: International Year One in Computer Science

This programme is tailored for students aiming to advance to the second year of a Computer Science degree at Royal Holloway. It focuses on developing programming skills and provides hands-on experience with practical programming tasks. The curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation in computer systems and software development.

5. University of Leeds: International Year One in Biological Sciences

Designed for students interested in biological and medical sciences, this IYO programme prepares students to progress to the second year of various biological science degrees at the University of Leeds. The curriculum includes modules in English language and practical biological laboratories, covering areas such as human disease genomics, genetic engineering, cell signalling, and anatomy.

6. University of Sussex: International Year One in Film and Media

The IYO course offers a pathway to a range of Film and Media degrees at the University of Sussex. It combines English language and career skills with subject-specific modules like cultural studies, media industries, media practice, and media texts. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the media landscape, preparing them for further studies and careers in the field.

7. University of York International Pathway College: International Year One Programmes

The University of York, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways, offers a variety of IYO programmes that enable students to progress directly to the second year of various bachelor’s degrees. Student can choose from courses and subject areas such as business and finance, computing, engineering, law, music, social sciences, and more.

International Year One Application Deadline

The application deadline depends on the specific course, subject area, or university you choose. For further information, please contact our education consultants.

How To Apply For International Year One?

Britannia Malaysia helps international students discover and apply to their ideal UK courses and universities. Get expert advice from our friendly education consultants—book your free consultation today.

Contact Us To Apply For International Year One

Join our UK Study newsletter and get helpful articles on UK study, admission tips, courses and more delivered to your inbox.




divider

Let us help you join your dream university.
Get a FREE consultation session with us.