7 reasons to choose International Year One in the UK
What is International Year One?
International Year One is your direct pathway into the second year of an undergraduate degree in the UK. Designed specifically for international students, the pathway programme combines academic subjects, English language development and university skills training – all delivered in a supportive, on-campus environment at Royal Holloway International Study Centre. You’ll study alongside other international students in small classes led by expert tutors, receiving personalised academic and wellbeing support. From your first day, you’ll be part of a welcoming university community that helps you grow in confidence and build meaningful connections.
With a curriculum aligned to your chosen undergraduate degree, you’ll benefit from focused teaching and one-to-one guidance to help you meet your academic goals. Throughout the programme, you’ll also develop key skills such as critical thinking, teamwork and communication, ensuring you’re well prepared for the challenges of university study and future career success. Every step of the way, you’ll be supported to stay on track and thrive – both during the International Year One and in the years that follow.
7 reasons to choose International Year One in the UK
Studying International Year One offers a structured and supported route into higher education abroad. Here are seven reasons why this pathway programme is a popular one-year course in UK for international students.
1. High-quality UK education
UK universities are globally respected for their academic standards. Through International Year One, you'll follow a curriculum that matches the first year of a UK undergraduate degree with additional support tailored for international students.
At Royal Holloway International Study Centre, you'll benefit from smaller class sizes, subject-specific modules, and expert teaching to help you succeed academically and personally as you settle in to a new country.
2. Combined visa
One of the most practical advantages of International Year One at Royal Holloway International Study Centre is the combined visa (also known as an iCAS). This allows you to apply for just one visa that covers both your International Year One at the International Study Centre and the remainder of your undergraduate degree at Royal Holloway, University of London.
That means fewer forms, less stress and no need to renew your visa when progressing into your second year of your undergraduate degree.
3. Smooth transition to university
Starting university in a new country can feel overwhelming but the International Year One is designed to make sure you are prepared so your transition is smooth. While studying a pathway programme at the International Study Centre, you’ll be based on campus, have access to Royal Holloway facilities and receive close academic guidance.
“With my International Year One with the International Study Centre, it prepared us like how to do successful teamwork and like how to prepare for assessments very fast. How to effectively manage the time, how to successfully write a good essay. It built a really nice base for us, so that helped us successfully in the year two.”
Rythm from India
Studied International Year One in Business Management
Progressed to BSc Business and Management
4. English language proficiency
Even if you’ve studied in English before, UK academic English has its own demands. International Year One includes English language development to help you meet those standards, whether it’s writing essays, referencing or contributing to seminars.
This focus builds your confidence and ensures you're ready for the academic expectations of your undergraduate degree.
5. Diverse cultural immersion
Studying in the UK means joining one of the most diverse student communities in the world. At Royal Holloway, you’ll meet peers from all backgrounds, helping you experience new perspectives and make friends for life.
You’ll be based on a beautiful, inclusive campus just 40 minutes by train from central London, combining peaceful study with easy access to one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Adjusting to life in the UK | Yusei from Japan
6. Build a global student community
The connections you make during your International Year One will support you well beyond your time at Royal Holloway International Study Centre. As you progress to your degree, you’ll already have a network of friends who can help you settle in, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Building friendships with students from around the world not only enriches your university experience but also strengthens your cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication skills, both of which are highly valued by international employers.
7. Personalised support
The International Year One programme offers a supportive environment. From your first day, you’ll benefit from approachable tutors, a Transition Manager and Academic Progress Coach staff who understand the challenges of studying abroad.
Royal Holloway International Study Centre supports your success academically and emotionally, helping you build the confidence, motivation and independence needed to thrive.
Study International Year One at Royal Holloway International Study Centre
Royal Holloway International Study Centre offers an excellent launchpad for your academic journey. You’ll study your subject pathway in smaller classes, receive expert guidance, and access the same facilities and campus life as Royal Holloway, University of London undergraduates.
International Year One subject routes available:
International Year One in Business and Management
This programme equips you with a solid foundation in business theory, organisational behaviour and international business, alongside essential quantitative and digital skills. You’ll also receive dedicated academic English language support to strengthen your writing, speaking and critical thinking skills for successful degree-level study in English.
International Year One in Computer Science
The core modules cover essential academic English skills alongside foundational knowledge in computer science, programming, software design and internet technologies. This comprehensive curriculum develops both technical expertise and professional skills, preparing students to excel in academic and real-world computing environments.
International Year One in Economics
This programme develops essential academic English skills alongside core economic theories and quantitative methods, equipping students to analyse real-world economic issues and policies effectively. Through practical data analysis, mathematical tools and economic principles, students gain both the language proficiency and critical thinking needed to succeed in university and beyond.
International Year One in Electronic Engineering
This programme combines comprehensive academic English training with core engineering modules, equipping students with essential communication skills and a solid foundation in engineering principles, mathematics, programming and internet technologies. Through practical projects and hands-on learning, students develop critical thinking, technical expertise and teamwork abilities essential for success in engineering studies and future careers.
Whether you’re interested in Business, Computer Science, Economics or Engineering, Royal Holloway International Study Centre offers a supportive, structured way to start your academic journey. You can begin your International Year One programme in September, January or November with Enhanced Induction. Enhanced Induction is an optional three-week programme in November that helps you settle into UK life and prepare for your studies before starting in January at no additional cost.
Find out more about International Year One entry requirements, tuition fees and visa information.
FAQs
How UK is best for international students?
The UK offers globally recognised degrees, a multicultural environment and post-study work options. For international students, it's an ideal mix of high-quality education, career prospects and cultural diversity.
What is the difference between Year One and International Year One?
Year One is the first year of a standard undergraduate degree, usually for students who meet all academic and English requirements for direct entry to the university. International Year One is a tailored programme that helps international students build academic, English language and study skills in a supportive environment before entering Year Two at the university.
Is International Year One good?
Absolutely! Royal Holloway International Study Centre’s International Year One offers strong academic preparation and smaller classes. It’s a supportive smart first step into UK higher education. At Royal Holloway, University of London, you’ll study on a beautiful campus close to London, with access to great facilities and a vibrant student life.