Making the most of your Foundation Year as an international student
Hi everyone, my name is Nataliia. I am a University of Birmingham alumna and a former international student, and I would like to share some advice on how you can make the most of your Foundation Year before starting your undergraduate degree.
What is a Foundation Year?
A Foundation Year is a preparatory year that some international students take before progressing to their undergraduate degree. This may be required if your previous qualifications are not equivalent to 12 years of schooling in the UK system. You might also choose to take a Foundation Year even if it is not mandatory, as it offers valuable insight into the UK university system before beginning your degree. In some subjects, Foundation Years are also available to UK students.
Foundation pathways are designed to help you adjust academically and build the skills you need for your degree. If you successfully complete your pathway and meet the required grades and English language criteria, you can progress to a wide range of undergraduate programmes.
Top Tips for Success
1. Talk to your teachers – they are there to help you
Especially in English classes, you will learn how to structure essays, build arguments and reference properly. These skills are absolutely essential for your degree.
In my Foundation Year, we could submit essay plans to our teachers before writing the full assignment. That feedback completely changed how I approached essay writing and made first year so much easier. Take advantage of those opportunities!
2. Be active in classes and build connections
It might feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you are new to the UK or not fully confident in your English yet. I was quite introverted myself, so I understand how intimidating it can be.
But Foundation Year is honestly the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone a little. Everyone is new. Everyone is adjusting. Starting conversations in class or working closely in group tasks can lead to real friendships.
Making friends with other international students can also make settling into the UK much easier, as you are all going through similar experiences. If you meet someone from your home country, it may also help with homesickness too.
3. Do not skip classes unless you really have to
It can be tempting sometimes, especially when deadlines feel far away. But Foundation Year is where you build your academic habits. You are learning how university works, how assignments are marked and what is expected from you.
If you miss too many classes, you are missing important explanations and practice. Also, if you are a student visa holder, you are required to attend at least 70% of your classes, so attendance really matters.
Of course, if you are unwell, prioritise your health. Just try not to treat Foundation as “optional” – it really is the base for everything that comes next.
4. Participate in UoB events
Welcome events, international student meet-ups and course introductions are more helpful than they might seem. They help you practise English, understand how things work and meet people outside your classroom.
The more involved you are early on, the more confident you will feel later.
5. Reflect on your future degree
Foundation Year is also a good time to check in with yourself. Are you enjoying the subjects? Do they feel right for you?
If you are thinking about switching to something slightly different, it is much easier to explore that option now than later. If you are considering a very different subject area, speak to your Tutor or the International Student Team first, especially as it may affect your visa.
Foundation Year is not “just a preparation year”. It is where you grow academically and personally, build your confidence and adjust to a completely new system.
If you have any questions, reach out to the International Student Team or explore the Student Intranet for more advice on academic life, wellbeing and student support.
Good luck – you’ve got this!