Overview

The International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies (L3IFDHES) is an Ofqual and Qualification in Wales (QiW) – regulated qualification designed to prepare students for entry into undergraduate degree programs, after O/Ls. Offered by NCC Education, this diploma provides students with essential academic and English language skills necessary for success in higher education. The programme is widely recognised by universities worldwide and serves as a direct pathway to degree studies in various disciplines.

To enrol in the IFD programme, students must meet the following requirements:

  • A GCSE/IGCSE ‘O’ Level or an equivalent qualification in their home country, with passes in at least five subjects (minimum grade ‘C’ or equivalent), including Mathematics and English.
  • An IELTS score of 4.5 or above.
    OR
    Students can take the free NCC Education Standard English Placement Test administered by us.*

*This requirement does not apply to students who have completed English Language as a subject in Pearson Edexcel IGCSE or Cambridge IGCSE.

The programme is designed to support students through various teaching methods, including:

  • Interactive Lectures & Tutorials: Engaging sessions focused on conceptual clarity.
  • Independent Research & Study Skills: Encouraging students to develop analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Assessments & Practical Applications: Including written exams, assignments, and oral presentations.
  • Personalised Academic Support: Regular feedback and guidance to ensure student success.

The IFD is a Level 3 qualification (A/L equivalent) with a total credit value of 120. Students engage in core academic skill development, subject-specific learning, and English language enhancement. Inclusive of the core units, you can opt for a stream of your choice.

 

  • Development of English language proficiency
  • Strengthening of research and study skills
  • Preparation for subject-specific university coursework

 

Core Units:

Developing English Language Skills (20 credits)

English for Academic Purposes (30 credits)

Research and Study Skills for University Study (20 credits)

Mathematics for University Study (10 credits)

 

Streams we offer:

Engineering

  • Physics for University Study (20 credits)
  • Further Mathematics for University Study (20 credits)

Life and Environmental Sciences

  • Chemistry for University Study (20 credits)
  • Biology for University Study (20 credits)

Business or Law

  • Introductory Economics (20 credits)
  • International Business (20 credits)

Information Technology

  • Introduction to Programming with Python (20 credits)
  • Introduction to Computer Science (10 credits)
  • Digital World (10 credits)

Upon completion of the IFD programme, students gain access to a wide range of undergraduate programs worldwide. Many universities offer direct entry into the first year of a degree in disciplines such as:

  • Business & Management
  • Economics & Finance
  • Computing & IT
  • Engineering & Science
  • Law & International Relations
  • Health Sciences
  • Psychology

The IFD qualification is recognised by universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, China, Singapore, New Zealand, the USA, and beyond. Students can enrol in international university branch campuses and continue their studies globally.

  • London School of Economics (LSE) (United Kingdom) – Ranked 6th in the world for Social Science and Management*
  • King’s College London (United Kingdom) – Ranked 9th in the world for Psychology**
  • University of Nottingham (United Kingdom) – Ranked 86th globally*
  • University of Sheffield (United Kingdom) – Ranked 96th globally*
  • University of York (United Kingdom) – Ranked 78th globally*
  • Deakin University (Australia)*** – Ranked in the top 200 globally*
  • Curtin University – (Australia, Malaysia, Dubai, Mauritius, Singapore) – Ranked 95th globally*
  • University of Queensland (Australia) – Ranked 41st globally*
  • University of Western Australia (Australia) – Ranked 72nd globally*
  • University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong) – Ranked 17th globally*

and many more Universities…

*According to the QS World University Rankings 2025

**According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025**

***Through the pathway at RIC

 

Learn more about NCC Education by visiting the official NCC Education website.

https://www.nccedu.com/qualifications/diplomas/ncc-education-level-3-international-foundation-diploma-for-higher-education-studies-l3ifdhes/

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