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International Foundation Year in Business, Finance and Management

The International Foundation Year prepares you for university with English language and study skills practice, as well as subject-specific teaching. When you complete the programme, you will progress to the first year of your undergraduate degree. This pathway allows you to progress to degrees in subjects including accounting, business management, financial mathematics and many more.

Key facts

*This intake is not available for progression to Optometry, Dental Surgery, Medicine, Medical Pharmacology or Pharmacy

  • Length: Two semesters
  • Study mode: On campus

Entry requirements

Check our academic and English language entry requirements

Fees

Visit the Fees page for full details.

The best preparation for your career in business

Cardiff University International Study Centre puts you on the path to an exciting future in business. Our International Foundation Year develops your subject knowledge and English language skills, ready for your undergraduate degree. All undergraduate degrees have the option of a professional placement year, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.

What will I study?

As a student on the this pathway of the International Foundation Year, you will study core modules as well as elective modules depending on which degree you choose.

Core modules

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at the partner University.

This module has been designed to provide students with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of business. As students continue their academic journey, it becomes ever more essential for them to build a strong foundation of knowledge. This foundation will equip students with the confidence and expertise needed to successfully navigate the intricate world of contemporary business. Students will be prepared to tackle complex business challenges, make strategic decisions, and contribute effectively to the success of organisations in diverse industries. This module serves as a crucial stepping stone toward students' future careers in business and management.

The Statistics with Project Skills module aims to develop students’ statistical competence in Semester 1 and to apply research, collaborative, and investigative skills in Semester 2 through a structured sustainability-focused project. The module integrates quantitative reasoning with authentic project-based inquiry to prepare students for undergraduate study.

The module is divided into two integrated phases. In Phase 1, students develop core statistical knowledge and techniques through structured disciplinary problem-solving. In Phase 2, students will engage in an investigative project, collaborating, if possible, within multidisciplinary teams to explore and resolve sustainability challenges. This phase builds directly on the subject knowledge and analytical skills developed in Semester 1.

Elective modules

This module provides essential knowledge and applications of the principles, and techniques in accounting and financial management. It aims to cultivate problem-solving abilities grounded in logical thinking, methodical data analysis, effective communication and informed decision-making. Attaining a solid grasp of accounting topics within this module equips students with a robust foundation, laying the groundwork for their undergraduate studies at university.

The module is designed to provide a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and core mathematics skills required for courses in Engineering, Computing, Economics & Finance and other STEM subjects. Its overall aim is to develop the academic language, subject-specific knowledge, academic study skills, and cultural awareness of international students from a wide range of countries and educational systems. This will enable them to progress confidently onto their chosen undergraduate programme with the appropriate subject background skills. The module also aims to foster an interest in mathematics and its applications, while enhancing students' self-confidence, initiative-taking, and independent working skills.

Professionally accredited

AACSB accredited business school

Top 30 in the UK

for Accounting and Finance, Business, Management & Marketing, and Economics

The Times and Sunday Times Rankings 2026

Progress to your degree

After completing your International Foundation Year and achieving the necessary grades, you can transition to your chosen undergraduate degree.

Degree Programme NameAwardOverall GradeEnglish GradeGrade Module
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Join us today

We're here to support you throughout the application process. Use our online application form and our student enrolment advisors will be available to answer your questions.