Program Overview

The International Foundation Year at Dublin International Study Centre is a three-term undergraduate foundation programme. It’s designed for ambitious international students, who have good academic qualifications from their home country.

You will be based on UCD's main campus and prepare to make a confident start to your degree in Ireland.

We offer three subject routes for progression to UCD. Across each route, you will study a mix of modules designed to improve your English language and academic skills so you're ready to progress to university. You will also benefit from our dedicated support staff in-centre, who will work with you to ensure you're on the path to success.

Once you successfully complete your International Foundation Year and achieve the required grades, you will be able to progress to your chosen undergraduate degree.

Business, Economics and Finance
The International Foundation Year in Business, Economics and Finance is perfect for ambitious students with a real passion for these subject areas. On this route, you'll continue building on your existing subject knowledge, while improving your English skills in Ireland. The programme is also a great opportunity to adjust to life here in an international community.

Why study the International Foundation Year?

• You can progress to the UCD Lochlann Quinn School of Business. The leading business school holds the rare 'triple crown' of accreditation — an indication of its excellence.
• From the International Foundation Year, you can progress to highly ranked business and commerce degrees. Business at UCD is ranked among the world's top 200 by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.
• UCD is also ranked among the world top 200 for Economics and Econometrics (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). From this International Foundation Year, you can progress to innovative Economics programmes.

Progression to Bachelor of Science in Business
The UCD Quinn School has a long tradition at the forefront of business and management education in Ireland and internationally. The BSc Business is an exciting new global-focused degree developed by the Quinn School for students aiming to develop the knowledge, skills and intercultural competencies essential in the global world of business and management.  This programme offers modules focusing on real-world business skills and intercultural competencies ideal for students considering a career in international business.

The BSc Business will help you develop the intellectual, analytical, critical and employability skills you will need to succeed as a leader in careers across different sectors on the global stage.

Through a range of assessment types, innovative group projects and individual coursework, presentations, business simulations and contemporary case studies you will be ready to launch a successful career in any multinational enterprise.