International Foundation Year in Law, Social Science and Humanities

What is the International Foundation Year in Law, Social Science and Humanities?

This route leads to a wide range of degrees at the University of Leeds, in areas ranging from XXX. You will study core and subject-specific modules, which are carefully tailored for your academic development and chosen area of study. The programme aims to improve your academic and English language skills, as well as honing your academic voice, helping you to succeed in your undergraduate study at a world top 100 university.

Key facts

Two semesters

Find out the specific term dates for this programme.

September, November (with Enhanced Induction) or January

Find out more about the entry requirements and course fees for this programme.

Why study Law, Social Science and Humanities at the University of Leeds?

If you're interested in Law, Social Sciences and Humanities, the University of Leeds is famous for its international rankings, research excellence, employability and opportunities to develop practical and global perspectives.

Global reputation and rankings

The Law, Social Sciences and Humanities courses are internationally recognised and gain strong global rankings, including 69th worldwide for Law and 53rd worldwide for Arts & Humanities.

Research-led teaching

The Faculty of Social Sciences emphasises that teaching is informed by internationally recognised research. Students learn from academics whose work addresses major global and societal challenges, supported by interdisciplinary research centres and collaborations with organisations around the world.

Practical learning and professional development – School of Law

The School of Law offers numerous opportunities to build practical legal and transferable skills, including:

  • Award-winning pro bono and community engagement projects
  • Mooting, debating and negotiation competitions.
  • An alumni mentoring scheme that connects students with experienced legal professionals.
  • Strong academic and pastoral support throughout their studies.

Students will benefit from strong employer links and a global alumni network of 18,000+ law graduates across more than 115 countries, including judges, senior lawyers, political leaders and business professionals.

Career focused

Leeds is ranked among the top 10 UK universities most targeted by graduate employers in the High Fliers Graduate Market Report 2026. You can connect with dedicated career advisers, join commercial law, public sector career events, and connect with strong alumni networks.

Gain individual support with the International Study Centre

Designed for international students, this programme takes a unique, focused approach to teaching and curriculum. Your learning will be structured in the same way as University teaching, with an aim to individually support you as you enter into the British education system.

University of Leeds subject rankings

Ranked 69th in the world and 11th in the UK for Law and Legal Studies
(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026) 

Top 100 in the world for Sociology
(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026) 

Law is ranked 40th in the world for Employability
(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026) 

Ranked 15th in the UK for Criminology
(Guardian University Guide 2026) 

Ranked 53rd in the world for Arts & Humanities, and 77th for Social Sciences & Management
(QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)

A group of students looking engaged in a classroom.

How to apply

Discover how to apply for a programme at the International Study Centre. You can also find the documents you need to provide alongside your application.

The Leeds International Study Centre sign

International Study Centre

Study abroad programs at the International Study Centre offers opportunities for international students to study in the UK. Discover how to progress to an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.

A group of students in a Leeds ISC classroom

English language courses

Our online English Language preparation courses will help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin your chosen pathway programme.

Join us today

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!