STEM

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

Our International Foundation Programme in STEM is designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to progress to a wide range of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related degrees at university. Whether your interests lie in understanding the principles of engineering, exploring the logic and applications of computing, developing mathematical models, or investigating the life sciences, the pathways within this course provide a strong academic foundation, preparing you for success at undergraduate level and beyond.

You will develop a deep understanding of your chosen discipline, from the laws of physics and mathematics that underpin engineering and computing, to the concepts of chemistry, biology, and quantitative analysis used in the sciences. Alongside subject-specific knowledge, you will strengthen essential academic skills in research, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and independent study — all of which are vital for study in UK higher education and for future careers in STEM fields.

This foundation year will give you the confidence to tackle complex problems, apply theories to real-world contexts, and work effectively both individually and in collaborative settings, ensuring you are well-prepared for the demands of undergraduate study.

This course offers four specialist routes:

Science and Engineering
Computer Science
Maths
Biology and Chemistry

Whichever route you choose, you will benefit from small-group teaching, close academic support, and assessments designed to mirror the expectations of university study, including essays, reports, presentations and examinations. By the end of the course, you will be well-prepared to take the next step in your academic journey at degree level.

Key Information

Mode of Study: Full-time, on-campus

Course Start: 28 September 2026 (available as Extended IFP, start date - 17 August 2026)

Course End: 3 July 2027

Fees: £27,150 (£29,950 for Extended IFP)

Department: Warwick Global Academy

Application Deadline: 10 August 2026

Apply Now

Specialist Routes

Each course has subject routes with a module combination designed to provide the subject-specific foundations you’ll need for your chosen degree route. Explore the options below to see how each module supports your progression.

Science and Engineering

Gain insight into the principles of engineering, mathematics, and physics, and develop the problem-solving, communication, and team-working skills required for a career in engineering or applied sciences. Ideal for degrees in Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Systems Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, and related disciplines.

Modules:

Academic Research and Communication Skills (ARCS)
Foundations of Physics
Foundation Mathematics for Science and Engineering
Mathematical Software and Modelling

Find out more about the Science and Engineering route

Computer Science

Develop the logic, mathematics, and digital skills that underpin modern computing, alongside programming and software development expertise. Suitable for progression to Computer Science, Computer Science with Business, Computer Science with Engineering, and related degrees.

Modules:

Academic Research and Communication Skills (ARCS)
Foundations of Computer Science
Foundation Mathematics for Science and Engineering
Mathematical Software and Modelling

Find out more about the Computer Science route

Maths

Focus on developing mathematical reasoning, modelling, and statistical analysis skills to prepare for a range of mathematics-related degrees. Students often progress to Mathematics, Discrete Mathematics, Mathematics and Statistics, Mathematics and Philosophy, MORSE (Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics), or Data Science.

Modules:

Academic Research and Communication Skills (ARCS)
Foundation Mathematics for Science and Engineering
Advanced Foundation Mathematics and Statistics
Mathematical Software and Modelling

Find out more about the Maths route

Biology and Chemistry

Explore the principles of biology and chemistry, developing practical laboratory skills alongside statistical and analytical techniques. Suitable for degrees in Life Sciences, Health and Medical Science, Biochemistry, Biological Science, Biomedical Science, Neuroscience, Psychology, Psychology with Linguistics, or Psychology with Education.

Modules:

Academic Research and Communication Skills (ARCS)
Foundations of Biology
Foundations of Chemistry
Foundation Mathematics and Statistics

Find out more about the Biology and Chemistry route

IFP Intended Learning Outcomes

IFP Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

Our overarching ILOs outline the core skills and academic behaviours all IFP students develop, regardless of your course or route. They highlight the essential foundations you’ll build, such as critical thinking, communication, and independent learning—to prepare you for successful progression to university study at Warwick or beyond.

Use digital and AI tools confidently and responsibly to support your learning, research, and communication, showing awareness of ethical and academic standards.
Think critically and draw on ideas from different subjects to explore and discuss global, social, and ethical issues from multiple perspectives.
Work and communicate effectively with others in diverse and intercultural settings, contributing positively to shared academic and professional goals.
Apply principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and global responsibility when analysing issues and making decisions in your studies and beyond.
Reflect on your own progress and skills to become more independent, adaptable, and prepared for success in university study and future careers.

Teaching

How will I learn?

At Warwick, we’re proud to hold a TEF Gold rating – the highest possible award for teaching excellence in the UK. This reflects our commitment to providing outstanding teaching, innovative learning experiences, and a supportive environment where every student can thrive.

On the International Foundation Programme (IFP), you’ll be taught in small-group seminars, designed to mirror the interactive and discussion-based learning you’ll experience at undergraduate level. Each module includes two x two hour seminars per week (a total of four hours per module), giving you regular opportunities to work closely with your academic tutor and classmates.

Our tutors are specialists in their fields and passionate about helping you succeed. In your seminars, you’ll explore topics in depth, apply concepts to real-world examples, and strengthen your understanding through discussion, debate, and collaborative activities. This approach helps you to develop confidence, independence, and the critical thinking skills essential for university-level study.

You’ll also learn alongside students from across the IFP, both within your chosen subject route and in shared modules with students from other disciplines. This creates a diverse and engaging learning community where you can exchange ideas, learn from different perspectives, and build friendships that extend beyond your subject area.

One of the core modules studied by all IFP students is Academic Research and Communication Skills (ARCS). This module helps you develop the academic language, literacy, and research skills you’ll need to succeed in UK higher education. You’ll practise reading, writing, listening, and speaking in academic contexts, learning how to structure arguments, present ideas clearly, and communicate effectively in both written and spoken formats.

This combination of small-group teaching, collaborative learning, and skill-focused study ensures that you’re fully prepared for the academic challenges and opportunities of studying at Warwick or another leading UK university.

What makes studying at Warwick special?

Studying at Warwick means becoming part of a vibrant, international community that values curiosity, collaboration, and creativity. You’ll join students from all over the world who share your ambition to learn, grow, and make an impact.

Our campus is a welcoming and inspiring place to live and study, combining cutting-edge facilities with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. You’ll benefit from Warwick’s world-class teaching, Gold-rated academic excellence, and strong focus on student wellbeing and personal development.

Throughout your time on the International Foundation Programme, you’ll be supported by tutors and staff who are committed to helping you achieve your goals – academically, personally, and professionally. You’ll not only gain the knowledge and skills to progress to your chosen degree, but also the confidence and independence to thrive as a university student.

By the end of your year on the Warwick IFP, you won’t just be ready for undergraduate study – you’ll already be part of the Warwick community, with a strong foundation for success at one of the UK’s leading universities, and beyond.

Assessment

How will I be assessed?

Throughout your IFP, you’ll be assessed using a variety of methods designed to help you demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and progress in different ways. These assessments reflect the range of work you’ll encounter at undergraduate level and help you develop confidence across multiple forms of academic communication.

Your assessments may include:

Essays and reports, where you’ll learn to structure arguments, analyse information, and present ideas clearly and persuasively.
Presentations, which help you develop confidence in communicating complex ideas and delivering information effectively to an audience.
Written examinations, which allow you to demonstrate your understanding under timed conditions and showcase your ability to apply knowledge independently.

Each assessment provides valuable feedback and opportunities to reflect on your progress. You’ll be supported throughout by your tutors, who will guide you in understanding expectations, improving your academic work, and achieving your full potential.

By the end of the programme, you’ll have developed the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in your degree studies and beyond.

How to Apply

You can apply for the Warwick IFP directly through our website using our online application form. It’s a simple and straightforward process designed to help you get started quickly.

Please note: Applications for 2025 entry are now closed, but we’re looking forward to receiving applications for 2026/7 entry soon

Before you apply, take a few minutes to read our guidance on:

Entry Requirements (listed on each route page)
Language Requirements
Personal Statement Requirements

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Explore our IFP Course Options and their subject routes to decide which course suits your goals and interests best.

Step 2: Check the entry requirements, then complete the online application form. You’ll need to pay a £75 non-refundable assessment fee when you apply.

Step 3: Upload a recent school transcript and your personal statement.

In your personal statement, make sure to mention the route specialism and undergraduate degree you’re most interested in. Our Admissions Team will then place you on the route that best suits your undergraduate progression needs.

Step 4: Once you’ve submitted your application, our Admissions Team will review it. You’ll usually hear back from us within 3–5 working days.

Step 6: If you meet our requirements and we feel you are a good fit for the programme, you will receive a conditional offer by email.

Step 7: Your offer email will include the conditions you need to meet and the deadlines for doing so.

If you’d like some extra help before submitting your application, please get in touch with our IFP Admissions Team via email on ifp@warwick.ac.uk. You can also book an individual counselling session for one-to-one advice and guidance about our programmes.