Accelerated International Degree Programme

The Accelerated International Degree Programme (AIDP) is an integrated course for overseas students whose home educational system does not provide the necessary specialisation for direct admission to Honours courses. The first six months of Foundation Year studies, from April to September, offer a range of courses aimed at bridging the gap between current qualifications and the knowledge and skills required for Honours courses.  After the initial six months, students who pass will progress immediately to an Honours degree programme at Keele. As the programme is integrated, students can apply for a visa for the full duration of the AIDP.

The AIDP also provides an opportunity for students who do not meet the minimum linguistic entry requirements for a degree course to improve their level of English while studying at a university in the UK. On arrival at Keele, the Language Learning Unit will test all students on the AIDP whose first language is not English. A final decision will then be made about required English modules and the appropriate Foundation Year programme.

Other features of the programme include:

  • Teaching on campus, by Keele University staff
  • Regular contact with a personal tutor, at least weekly
  • Accommodation on campus

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for the AIDP are:

  • Academic IELTS 5.5 (with at least 5.5 in each of the sub-tests) or an equivalent English language qualification
  • A national high school leaving certificate/diploma, or academic qualifications equivalent to UK 'A' levels grade C or 'AS' levels grade B
  • A numerate or mathematics qualification equivalent to GCSE/'O'level grade C

Course fee

The fee for the Accelerated International Foundation Year is £8,880 (April 2014 entry).  Students continuing their degree studies at Keele will be entitled to a fee discount in their subsequent years of undergraduate study of £1,000 per year.

How to Apply

All applications must be made using the AIFY Application Form direct to the Keele International office at Keele University.

Course Content

All students take core skills modules in English Language. In addition, they take modules related to the degree subjects which they wish to study after the International Foundation Year. If you join the course, you will be appointed a personal tutor who will see you at least once a week and oversee your academic development, as well helping in other ways with regard to your being a Keele student. The choice of modules studied is individual to each student and you will be able to discuss with your tutor the best options for you.

A large focus during the first six-months is English Language development appropriate to preparing students for academic study: this covers all aspects of listening, speaking and writing. However, the programme is designed to address the whole learning experience and individual approaches to study. You will have opportunities to consider your learning style and reflect on what influences your own learning. You will also be given relevant information and advice about studying and how to make the best use of the available resources.

Assessment is though a combination of examination and coursework, so all students are aware of their level of attainment throughout the programme. By the end of the year, you will have had the opportunity to improve your English, including that required for formal academic study as well as general conversation and to develop skills and knowledge relating to your chosen degree subject.

Further Information

For further information, please contact:

Allison Gardner
Head of the Accelerated International Foundation Year
Foundation Year Centre
Keele University
Staffordshire  ST5 5BG

Tel: 01782 733989

Email: a.gardner@keele.ac.uk