Biology and Chemistry Route

The Biology and Chemistry Route (STEM Course) is designed for students aiming to progress to degree programmes in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Psychology, or related fields.

This route provides a strong foundation in the core principles of biology and chemistry, helping you to develop the theoretical knowledge, practical laboratory skills, and analytical techniques required for scientific study at university.

Throughout the course, you will explore how living systems function at molecular and cellular levels, investigate chemical structures and reactions, and apply mathematical and statistical methods to interpret scientific data. You will gain hands-on experience in experimental design, laboratory practice, and data analysis, while also strengthening your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively.

By the end of the course, you will be well prepared to progress to undergraduate degrees in biological and chemical sciences, health and medical sciences, or psychology, and to pursue future study or careers in scientific research, healthcare, or the life sciences sector.

Key Information

Mode of Study: Full-time, on-campus

Course Start: 28 September 2026
(available with 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

Modules

Academic Research and Communication Skills
This module develops the academic language, literacy, and research skills needed for success in UK higher education. Students will practise reading, writing, listening, and speaking in academic contexts, learning how to structure arguments, present ideas clearly, and communicate effectively in written and spoken formats. The module also introduces critical academic practices such as evaluating sources, engaging in inquiry-based research, and reflecting on learning. Through teamwork and a research-based project, students apply these skills to authentic academic tasks. By the end of the module, students will be able to plan, produce, and present structured academic work, collaborate effectively with others, and demonstrate the independent study skills required for undergraduate success.

Foundations of Biology
This module develops students’ understanding of biological sciences through both practical and theoretical study. Key topics include cell biology, human health, genetics, and the role of biology in solving real-world problems. Students will gain experience in experimental techniques through laboratory work, as well as in evaluating evidence, analysing data, and considering ethical issues in the life sciences. The module also explores recent advances in biology and encourages interdisciplinary perspectives. By the end of the module, students will be able to apply biological concepts, use practical techniques with confidence, and critically evaluate evidence in the life sciences.

Foundations of Chemistry
This module develops both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in chemistry, focusing on the application of core chemical principles to real-world scientific problems. Students will explore key concepts in chemical analysis, reactivity, and structure, while also gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and safe working practices. The module is designed to prepare students for undergraduate study in chemistry and related disciplines by combining conceptual learning with applied laboratory work. By the end of the module, students will be able to apply chemical concepts, conduct experiments safely, and interpret and communicate findings effectively.

Foundation Mathematics and Statistics
This module develops essential mathematical and statistical skills for analysing problems across science and the life sciences. Students will learn how to apply core mathematical processes and statistical methods to practical and theoretical questions, building confidence in quantitative reasoning. The focus is on real-world applications, with problems drawn from biology, health sciences, and other related disciplines. By the end of the module, students will be able to apply a range of mathematical and statistical techniques, interpret data critically, and communicate solutions clearly in scientific contexts.

Please note that given the interval between the publication of these modules and enrolment, some of the information may change. You can find out more by reading our terms and conditions.

Teaching and Assessment

How will I learn?

You will be taught through small-group seminars, which mirror the interactive and discussion-based learning you can expect at undergraduate level in the UK. Each module includes two x two-hour seminars per week (a total of 4 hours per module), giving you regular opportunities to engage with your academic tutor and classmates.

In these sessions, you will explore topics in depth, apply concepts to practical examples, and develop your understanding through discussion, debate, and collaborative activities. This format ensures you receive close academic support while building the communication and critical thinking skills essential for success at university.

On the Biological Sciences and Psychology IFP there will also be some practical lessons in our laboratory classrooms.

How will I be assessed?

Across your modules you will be assessed through a range of methods including presentations, tests, reports and examinations.

Entry requirements

Please select your country/region below to see the typical grade requirements. For our Biological Sciences and Psychology IFP, either Biology, Chemistry or Psychology will be required, and you will have specific grade requirements for these subjects as outlined below.

A-Levels, IB and GCSEs

International Qualifications

AS/A-Levels

BBB

GCSE/IGCSE

A/7 or above in at least four subjects, remaining subjects at B/6 or above (at least six subjects required in total)

IB Diploma

30 points overall

IB Certificate

5 points in four subjects

IB Middle Years

6 points in all subjects

IB Careers Related

5 points (grade B) in all subjects

IB Diploma and A-Levels should have been completed outside of the UK - if you have completed these qualifications in the UK then you are not eligible for the foundation programme and should instead consider undergraduate study options.

English Language Requirements

All applicants, are required to show that their English ability is at a suitable level for their IFP course. You do not need to have an English Language Test to submit an application - we can still assess you for a place on the programme and if you are successful, we will issue an offer which is conditional on you submitting an acceptable English language qualification ahead of the course starting.

A number of English language tests are accepted. Applicants who require a visa to study in the UK, will be required to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT), due to the visa requirements set by the UK Government. Please note that certain English tests (including IELTS and PTE) must be taken within the two years prior to the start of your IFP course.

IFP Course	IELTS for UKVI	PTE Academic UKVI
IFP Biology and Chemistry	5.5 overall, 5.5 in Writing and 5.0 in all other components	51 overall, with 51 in Writing and 43 in all other components
Extended IFP Biology and Chemistry	5.5 overall, 5.0 in all components	51 overall, with a minimum of 43 in all other components

If you are unsure about which test you are required to take, you can find out more on our English Language Requirements page, or if you need further support please contact us via ifp@warwick.ac.uk

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.

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.

Progression Routes

Students on this course would typically be looking to progress to a range of undergraduate degrees in a range of disciplines, and will be eligible for guaranteed offers of progression at Warwick on courses such as:

Life Sciences and Global Sustainable Development
Biochemistry
Biological Sciences
Biomedical Science
Chemistry*
Global Sustainable Development
Health and Medical Science
Neuroscience
Psychology*
Psychology and Global Sustainable Development*
Psychology with Linguistics*
Psychology with Education*

*Guaranteed conditional offers are not available to IFP students who have already completed a level 3 qualification (i.e. A-Levels, IB Diploma, Indian Class XII or any other qualification which is accepted directly for undergraduate study) - students in this situation will be assessed for an undergraduate offer in line with all other Warwick applicants, and may not receive an offer for Warwick's most competitive courses.

This list is an overview of some of the most popular progression options - if you are interested in another undergraduate degree not on this list, please contact and we can advise you if a guaranteed conditional offer is available.

Connect with our students

Meet Fabiana

Find out what it is really like to study at University of Warwick directly from Fabiana, who studied the IFP Biological Science programme in 2025 and is now completing her BSc Biomedical Science with Placement Year degree at Warwick – get answers on campus life, accommodation, study support, wellbeing and more.