Foundation Year Engineering / Physics / Maths

Typical entry requirements

IB:

A-Level requirements

Our offer for students who have studied A-levels is typically ABB.

Please check the table below to see if you are ineligible for the Foundation Year based on the A-levels you are currently studying/have studied. If you are eligible for entry to your chosen course, you are not normally permitted to take the Foundation Year. This also applies to courses that include an Industrial Placement Year.

BTEC Extended Diploma

Applicants must study one of these BTEC Extended Diplomas:  Aeronautical Engineering / Engineering / Mechanical Engineering / Electrical/ Electronic Engineering / Manufacturing Engineering. No other BTEC subjects will be accepted.

A typical BTEC offer is DDD overall, plus Distinctions in Mathematics for Technicians and Further Mathematics for Technicians units or Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics units.

GCSE

Applicants must hold Grade B/6 in GCSE Mathematics and Grade C/4 in GCSE English language. Applicants below this GCSE standard will not be considered.

This GCSE requirement is in addition to studying a Level 3 qualification, such as A levels, Access course, BTEC National Extended Diploma etc.

Access courses

Applicants must study an Engineering, Computer Science or Science Level 3 Access courses. No other Access subjects will be accepted.

A typical Access offer is 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which at least 30 credits, including all credits from graded maths modules, must be graded Distinction with the remainder graded Merit. All applicants must offer at least one Level 3 maths module.

Other qualifications

If you have UK qualifications not listed above, your application will be considered on an individual basis. Visit our International Office pages for more information in entry requirements for international students.

If you can show a proven ability in mathematics and science, but you come from a region or country where an A-Level equivalent qualification is not available, you may be considered for the Foundation Year.

Mature applicants:

We welcome applications from applicants aged over 21. You will need to demonstrate recent study (in the last two years) or work experience relevant to your preferred subject area. Study could include for example: a Level 3 Access course in a suitable subject (please check our Access courses section above), Open University modules (such as Y033 or MU123) or a Level 3 mathematics qualification (e.g. AQA Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies). If you are studying/have studied for A-levels, please check our A-level subject combination table above.

If you have not completed any recent study, you will need to demonstrate an aptitude for mathematics by taking our own maths test. You may also be invited to an individual interview. Please contact us for more information before applying.

English language

If English is not your first language, we ask you to obtain a recognised language qualification. If you can demonstrate that you have achieved IELTS 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each band, or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University, you will be able to join the course without the need for additional English language classes.

If you have not yet achieved IELTS 6.5, you may wish to consider our Presessional English courses.

Selection process:

Each application is considered individually. However, you need to demonstrate an aptitude for maths, either through recent study or by taking our maths diagnostic test. Please refer to the Pre-Maths Skills' document, which provides an example of the minimum level of mathematics required to start the Foundation Year. If applicable, the maths diagnostic test will be sent to you via email once you have submitted your application.

This page contains specific entry requirements for this course. Find out about equivalent entry requirements and qualifications for your country.

Typical course content

Whatever degree you are aiming for, you will take all of the modules listed below. In addition you will be expected to complete coursework in all subjects. The year is divided into two semesters, each lasting 15 weeks. Modules last for two semesters.

Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information can be found in the programme handbook (or other appropriate guide or website).

Scholarships, bursaries or grants may be available to support you through your course. Funding opportunities available to you are linked to your subject area and/or your country of origin. These can be from the University or other sources.

Costs associated with this course

Students are responsible for meeting the cost of essential textbooks, and of producing such essays, assignments, laboratory reports and dissertations as are required to fulfil the academic requirements for each programme of study.

In some cases you'll be able to choose modules (which may have different costs associated with that module) which will change the overall cost of a programme to you. Please also ensure you read the section on additional costs in the University’s Fees, Charges and Expenses Regulations in the University Calendar available at www.calendar.soton.ac.uk.