Pre-University Placement and Admission 2026/2027

UK Pre-University Placement

A pre-university course gives international students the qualifications, study skills and English language level that UK universities expect. For younger students, GCSEs lay the foundation for sixth form study. A-Levels, taken over two years from age 16, are the most widely recognised route into UK universities and are required by many of the most selective. A university foundation year, usually completed in one academic year from around 17, is a focused alternative for students whose home-country qualifications do not meet direct entry requirements.

The right pathway depends on your child's age, academic record, English level and the degree they are aiming for, and we help you choose it with confidence. As part of Study First Group, a UCAS Registered Centre, we place students at selected UK colleges where we hold a direct partnership, and at government-approved schools with a full boarding option, so your child studies in a safe, supervised environment while preparing for university.

UK Pre-University Admissions

Admission starts with our initial application form below. Once we receive it, our placement team reviews your child's school reports, English level and university goals, recommends the most suitable pathway and college, and manages the application through to offer and enrolment. In the final year of study, we support your child's UCAS application to their chosen universities.

Most GCSE and A-Level programmes start in September, and many foundation courses offer both September and January starts. Places at popular colleges fill early, so we recommend applying at least six to nine months before the intended start date. For university entry, the main UCAS deadline falls in January, with earlier October deadlines for Oxford, Cambridge and most medicine courses. See our UK Admission Deadlines page for the key dates across the academic year.

Do I Need UK University Guardianship?

Yes, while your child is under 18. Colleges and universities require international students under 18 to have an appointed UK guardian, and every student we place at our selected partner colleges is enrolled with a nominated UK guardian from the start of their course. The guardian is the college's local point of contact, responds in emergencies and supports your child with practical matters throughout their pre-university studies.

Our UK University Guardianship service continues into university for students who start their degree before turning 18. Package prices and optional services are set out on our guardianship fees page.

Initial Application Form

This form is the first step towards your child's academic pathway and a UK university degree. Once we receive your application, our educational placement team will review it and contact you with further information and the procedures required for full pre-university admission.