Stevenson College Edinburgh offers a one year International Foundation Programme which prepares students to apply to any UK university.
"Stevenson College Edinburgh is a great place to study and get the qualifications that you need for entry to a UK University. I am currently studying my Highers and am hoping to go to University to study either Law or Economics.
The teaching staff make a huge difference to my time here; they are very nice and friendly and will help wherever they can. There are also great facilities that are available to students."
Zahra Karmiaghaei, International Foundation Programme, Iran
The International Foundation Programme - Subject Choices (PDF document, 345KB) gives you more information on the study options available for International Foundation students.
What is the Qualification I will gain?
You study towards qualifications called “Highers” which are the official Scottish school leaving qualifications. Highers are national qualifications and are recognised throughout the UK for university entrance. As they are at a slightly lower level than the A-Level, universities will generally ask for 4 Highers or 3 A-Levels. It takes one year to complete the Higher and 2 years to complete the A-Level.
Advanced Highers in Scotland are the academic equivalent of the A-Level in England. Advanced Highers provide a more detailed level of knowledge and may allow students to progress to the second year entry of a degree at a Scottish university. It takes one year to complete the Advanced Higher. Selected Highers are also available at SCE at the Advanced Higher Level, which often carry more UCAS points for University entrance.
You will be awarded a grade of A, B or C for each subject studied, which is based on continual assessment through out the year and a final end of year exam.
English for Academic Purposes is also included as part of the International Foundation Programme. You will prepare for IELTS testing and also Higher ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) which can be one of your four Highers depending on your level of English and your study objectives.
Specialised Foundation Programmes
There are also specific Foundation Programmes for students wishing to progress to further study in the Creative Arts and Biological/Physical Sciences. Please contact the International Centre for more information regarding these specific Foundation Programmes.
Please note that some degree programmes are very competitive in the UK, and may require Higher subject passes at Grade A or indeed the study of five Highers. Please check with the International Centre for details on your subject choices. University entry requirements will vary between institutions. Entry requirements change from one year to the next, therefore it is recommended that you check the current entry requirements with the admissions department of your preferred university. You can check university entry requirements at www.ucas.com, or by using the website/prospectus of your chosen university. International Centre staff will also help you with this.
Students should have an IELTS score of 5.5 before applying to the International Foundation Programme.
*please note it is extremely difficult to gain entry into Medicine due to the limited places at University. Students are also required to sit for the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT).