International Foundation Diploma

The International Foundation Diploma prepares you with essential knowledge, skills, and confidence to progress into undergraduate programmes worldwide.

Format

Online

Intakes

Feb, Jun, Oct

Duration

9 Months

Level

Diploma-Level 3

Credits

120

Fees

£4,750

Format

Campus

Intakes

Feb, Mar, Jun, Oct

Duration

6-9 Months

Level

Diploma-Level 3

Credits

120

Fees

Intl: £15,000 UK/EU: £9,250

Course Overview

International Foundation Diploma (IFD) is a globally recognised programme and is an alternative to an A-Level or Access to Higher Education qualification.

IFD provides students with a foundation for an entry route to UK and international university courses. It is designed for international students and includes a wide range of modules: mathematics, computing, society and culture, business, and accounting – to ensure that each student has basic knowledge of the subject and is eligible for most of the Bachelor’s Degree. It will also help fill the knowledge and skills gap to quickly and smoothly adapt to academic-style teaching.

Successful completion of the IFD allows students to progress to further study or employment.

IFD will help prepare a student with everything that they require to achieve success during their term as an undergraduate student here in the UK.

IFD at London School of Business will help international students in becoming academically adept to pursue higher education here in the United Kingdom.

A fast track route to London School of Business and other prestigious UK universities for students who lack British A level or equivalent qualifications.

Understanding the IFD

International Foundation Diploma (IFD) is commonly also referred to as:

  • International Foundation Programme (IFP)

  • University Foundation Programme (UFP)

All three terms are widely used and generally describe the same type of qualification.

What They Mean (Simply)?

An IFD / IFP / UFP is a Level 3–equivalent pre-university qualification designed to:

  • Prepare students for undergraduate (Level 4) study.

  • Bridge the gap between secondary education and university.

  • Support international and domestic students who do not meet direct entry requirements.

Who is a Foundation Programme for?

  • High school grades are below university entry criteria
  • Different curriculum (e. g. local board not fully recognised)
  • Missing required subjects (Maths, Science, etc. )
  • Students whose school qualifications are not equivalent to the host country’s system
  • Need academic alignment and preparation
  • IELTS score is below the required level
  • Need academic English skills (writing, reading, presentations)
  • Switching from arts to science, business to engineering, etc.
  • Need subject foundation before starting a degree
  • Out of education for some time
  • Need academic refresh and study skills

Learning Outcomes

Course Structure & Modules

During the first term, students undertake three mandatory modules. In the second term, they select three optional modules from a range of available subjects.

  • Academic English and Study Skills (20 credits)
  • Foundation Mathematics (20 credits)
  • Foundation Computing (20 credits)
  • Society and Culture (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Business (20 credits)
  • Foundation Accounting and Economics (20 credits)
  • Law (20 credits)
  • Politics (20 credits)
  • Psychology (20 credits)

Teaching & Facilities

The Business & Finance Foundation programme at London School of Business is assessed on a continuous basis, removing the pressure of a single end-of-year examination. Students undertake mid-term assessments and end-of-term examinations for each module, alongside structured coursework designed to reinforce practical understanding. The programme follows a university-approved syllabus, ensuring students are fully prepared for progression to undergraduate study. Delivered by highly qualified lecturers who are experts in their fields, the programme provides an exceptional academic standard and enables a smooth and confident transition to undergraduate degree level.

Exams & Assessment

Students are assessed through a balanced combination of coursework, projects, presentations, and written examinations. Ongoing assignments and mock assessments are used to monitor progress and prepare students for final evaluations. The assessment approach emphasises both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of each student’s capabilities. Constructive feedback is provided throughout the programme to support continuous improvement and academic success.

Programme Highlights

• Develop core skills in English, mathematics, and computing

• Learn effective reading, writing, listening, and research abilities

• Build a strong foundation to thrive in higher academics

• Understand fundamentals of accounting, economics, and business concepts

• Explore how businesses operate and make decisions

• Prepare for specialized business degrees and careers

• Navigate studying and working in multicultural environments

• Learn about social issues, media, philosophies around the world

• Build cultural intelligence to succeed globally

• Benefit from practical, hands-on learning methods

• Apply concepts through projects, case studies, and exercises

• Develop key skills desired by employers

• Save time and money compared to other pathways

• Seamless entry to top UK and international universities

• Short 6-month program with flexible start dates

Degree Progression

Our foundation course offers progression to almost all Business & Finance university degree courses including but not limited to the following:

  • Accounting

  • Actuarial Science

  • Business Economics

  • Economics & Accountancy

  • Business IT

  • Development Economics

  • Management & Marketing

  • Property Valuation & Finance

  • Business Law

  • Accounting & Economics

  • Banking and Finance

  • Business Economics

  • Business Management

  • Event Management

  • Leisure Marketing

  • Business Studies

  • Digital Marketing

  • Money, Banking & Finance

  • Accounting & Finance

  • Business Administration

  • Economics

  • Hotel Management

  • Business Finance

  • Business Studies & Marketing

  • e-Commerce

  • Marketing

  • Risk Analysis & Insurance

  • Investment & Financial Risk Management

Our Top Destinations

After completing the International Foundation Diploma Programme at LSB, students may continue their studies with LSB or progress to leading universities across the UK, making it a trusted pathway to higher education.

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Entry Requirements

We recognise a range of qualifications from across the world. Please get in touch with us to discuss specific country requirements for your country. If you do not meet the entry requirements as mentioned above, please contact us to find out other possible entry routes.

Age RequirementApplicants must be 16 years of age or older at the time of application to be eligible for entry onto the Foundation Programme.
Academic RequirementsApplicants must have successfully completed Grade 10 or an equivalent qualification, such as GCSEs or an internationally recognised secondary school certificate.
English Language RequirementsApplicants must demonstrate a minimum B1 (Intermediate) level of English proficiency, in line with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Testimonials

“I chose to study the International Foundation Diploma through LSB as I was looking forward to beginning my higher education in the UK by studying International Business at University. The team at LSB really supported me in giving the best advice. This Diploma supported me in enhancing my basic academic skills and business fundamentals which gave me the opportunity to continue my education in business.”

camilleCamille, France

“I am really happy that I obtained my qualification for the International Foundation Diploma with LSB as I was able to strengthen many essential skills which allowed me to study BA (Hons) Business and Management at Solent University. The LSB team was very supportive and encouraging which really helped me to stay motivated towards my academic goals.”

yasmine soudYasmine Soud, Romania

“Completing the International Foundation Diploma at London School of Business was one of the best decisions as I was able to prepare myself well, of course with the help of the professor, for the undergraduate course that I am looking to pursue in the future in the UK. This diploma supported me significantly in filling in some of the gaps within my knowledge and skills and I would highly recommend it to others.”

antonio peterAntonio Peter, Germany

Fees & Funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of a student’s academic studies. It usually includes teaching costs, registration and examination fees (not repeat or tailing modules, re-sit fees or programme work resubmission). Any costs associated with work placements will be the students’ responsibility.

Full Time Fees £9,250

For full details, please visit our fees and funding page.

Full Time Fees £15,000

For full details, please contact us.

How to Apply

Enrolling at LSB will help you study in a diverse mix of cultures, providing an opportunity to socialise and make friends from nations across the globe. Apply now, and one of our Admission Advisors will be in touch to support you through the process.

You can use the following link to apply for the programme:
https://www.lsbuk.com/apply/
  • Personal details

  • Family information

  • Extracurricular activities

  • Global interests and experiences

  • Proof of your academic achievements, including official school transcripts

  • Evidence of English proficiency, i.e: TOEFL/IELTS/ Functional Skills Level 2 (if English is not your native language)

  • GMAT/SAT/ACT scores (optional)

  • One academic reference

  • A Personal Statement as an essay (400–500 words)

  • Scholarship and financial aid application included with the application form

In order to assess your eligibility for the programme, we will review your profile and your expectations from your career. This will be done via an in-person, telephonic or video conversation. In addition, we will mark your English proficiency for the course as well, and advise on further actions to be taken on your part.

Once your application and personal assessment interview are completed, you will receive an admission decision within two weeks. If you have any questions regarding the status of your application, feel free to contact your Admission Advisor.

If you are accepted into the program and have decided to start your studies at London School of Business, you must confirm your place prior to confirmation deadline.

Once we confirm your student status with us, we will be sending out useful information regarding your pre-arrival, and pre-enrolment.  Not only that, we will work alongside to make sure you have a seamless arrival in the UK.

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Visit Us

If you are interested in applying we encourage you to visit the School and meet with our recruitment and admissions staff. This is neither a requirement nor expectation if you are planning on applying to the programme.

Related Programmes

At LSB, you will have the chance to study a broad range of subjects. The School offers a unique opportunity to study business alongside other disciplines.

BA (Hons) Business and Management

Business and related subjects such as Finance, Accounting, Management and Economics are among the most popular fields of study.

BA (Hons) Business and Enterprise

Our Business Enterprise programme has been developed in close partnership with industry experts to give the business knowledge and work experience.

BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance

Financial and business skills are precious for companies. Our programme has been developed in close partnership with industry experts.

BA (Hons) International Business

Business is becoming truly global. The internet and instant communications mean that even small businesses can now reach an international market.

BA (Hons) Business and Marketing

A business can’t succeed without its customers. This course is designed to help you to understand the business principles and to develop your creativity.

BA(Hons) Business and Human Resource Management

Our Human Resource Management (HRM) programme was developed to help you to gain your essential business and management skills.

Need Help Choosing A Programme?

Choosing the right programme is an important part of your future success. Our dedicated student counsellors are happy to assist you in choosing the right programme that best suits your professional goals. Please contact us on +44 (0)20 3305 8124 or send us an email to Info@lsbuk.com to discuss your requirements and obtain an application form.

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At London School of Business (LSB) we nurture leaders. “Building Leaders for Business” forms the essence of our existence. We are redefining how businesses operate in London and the rest of the world.

Building Leaders for Business

Get in Touch

  • +44 (0)20 3305 8124

  • info@lsbuk.com