If you want to learn from scientists tackling some of the world’s most important challenges – such as conservation, cancer and dementia – this Foundation Year is perfect for you.
The flexibility of the Foundation Year allows you to progress onto a range of our exciting degrees in the School of Life Sciences. To prepare you for whichever course you pick, you learn both practical and academic skills in biology, chemistry and mathematics, giving you the perfect grounding for your studies.
About Sussex
Sussex graduates change the world. Our students become the leaders of the future, making discoveries, improving lives and changing things for the better.
Study with us to join a welcoming and inspiring community of staff and students from more than 140 countries.
Location
We shape the world from a fantastic campus on the UK’s beautiful south coast.
We are the only UK university surrounded by a national park, so you can step off campus to explore the hills and woodlands of the South Downs. The vibrant, colourful and creative seaside city of Brighton & Hove is just nine minutes away.
With Brighton voted the happiest city in England for students, (Student Living Survey, Sodexo, 2018) there can be few better places to study.
Modules
See the modules you will study by year by going to the 'view course details' link.
This course is not accepting applications at this time. Please contact the provider to find out more.
Apply by 29 January
This is the equal consideration deadline. You can still apply after this date, but your application may not receive guaranteed consideration.
Application codes
Course code:
C701
Institution code:
S90
Campus name:
Main Site
Campus Code:
-
Points of Entry:
Foundation
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)
University of Sussex has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Learn what it's like to study at University of Sussex. From key stats to campus highlights, open days, and more - find everything you need to know here.
This course is not accepting applications at this time. Please contact the provider to find out more.
Apply by 29 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
Course code:
C701
Institution code:
S90
Campus name:
Main Site
Campus Code:
-
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
Discover what it's like to study Life Sciences (with a foundation year) at University of Sussex: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
POWERED BY
Gabriel
University of Sussex
Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc (Hons)
Hi, I’m Gabriel and I’m a first year Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence student. I have always been obsessed with computers and knew I wanted to go into the industry from quite a young age. University was the obvious choice to me; it gave me a good path towards my future career and the whole aspect of it appealed to me. The best thing about university is being able to study a subject you're passionate about surrounded by others who feel the same. I am still unsure as to exactly which area of computer science I want to go into, but this is common, and I still have a few years of university left to help me figure this out. Feel free to ask me any questions!
Tarik
University of Sussex
Chemistry BSc (Hons)
My interest in chemistry started in sixth form and that motivated me to study it at university. I'm currently in the first year of my course at the University of Sussex. Outside of university, I like various types of documentaries, travelling and football.
Uma
University of Sussex
Zoology BSc (Hons)
I wasn't always sure which direction I wanted to take. My background was in biomedical science with the NHS. Leaving this behind to travel in my 20s changed this trajectory and inspired me to study Zoology. Meeting incredible scientists and visiting conservation projects sparked a passion for the natural world and its protection.
This experience led me to pursue a degree in zoology as a mature student. I have learned about the delicate balance in ecosystems and the pressing need for conservation efforts. I am hoping to build a career in this field. I am passionate about making a difference for our planet and inspiring others to connect with and protect the natural world.
Sarah
University of Sussex
Medicine BMBS
Hi there! I’m Sarah, a third year medical student at Brighton and Sussex medical School. I am a mature student having worked for the UK Government for the past ten year, and a graduate, completing my first degree in Medical Neuroscience here at the University of Sussex. It really feels like I have come full circle now that I am back here studying medicine!
I hope to become a GP once I finish my degree, but we get so much exposure to different specialities I am also excited to explore. I enjoy yoga and cold water swimming which is great as I live by the sea for the first time!
Rabiah
University of Sussex
Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Hi, I'm Rabiah a current 1st year biomedical student at Sussex. I did the foundation year last year and stayed at Sussex for my degree! I am enjoying my course so far and I would love to help, so feel free to message me with any questions!
Omid
University of Sussex
Economics and Finance BSc (Hons)
Hey, Good to have you here
I am a final-year student studying BSc in Economics and Finance. Please feel free to drop me a message regarding the academic journey (my course, university, academic life).
Lily
University of Sussex
Psychology BSc (Hons)
I'm a mature international student, and have just started studying this year, which comes with different challenges, but just as many rewards!
As much as I love my course, I also love being able to be a part of so many different societies, and meet so many new and interesting people!
Millie
University of Sussex
American Studies (with a study abroad year) BA (Hons)
I'm an American Studies second year student here at Sussex doing a study abroad year at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Throughout university i have enjoyed travelling and reading and am working towards a degree in which I hope to continue at Masters.
Izzy
University of Sussex
Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Hi, I'm Izzy. I'm currently studying biomedical science however I would like to pursue a career in forensic science. In my spare time, I love knitting things for my friends, listening to music and playing computer games. I also love nature walks, which is one of the reasons I came to Sussex. I am happy to answer any questions about student life :)
Caitlin
University of Sussex
Zoology MSci
Hi!
I'm Caitlin, a 4th Year commuting Zoology student at the University of Sussex. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university including accommodation, my course or student life.
I respond to messages during the day and will get back to you as soon as I am available - hope to hear from you soon!
Jasper
University of Sussex
International Business (with a professional placement year) BSc (Hons)
Current second year student at the University of Sussex aspiring to work in the commercial side of the football industry with a strong interest in international business.
Shubby
University of Sussex
Law LLB (Hons)
I am Nigerian but was born in Canada. I aspire to be a civil litigation or corporate lawyer in the future. I am very passionate about helping other individuals in anyway I possible can !
A-levels should normally include at least one science from Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Marine Science, Maths/PureMaths/Further Maths, Physics, Psychology, Statistics or Life & Health Sciences (Double Award only).
You will also normally need to pass the separate science practical assessment in at least one of the science subjects.
You will normally need GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMM
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma should normally be in Applied science and will need to include specific modules - Please see the university website for more details.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Animal Management will also be considered. Successful applicants will need good grades in the following core modules: Animal Health and Diseases, Animal Biology, Animal Behaviour.
You will also need GCSE (or equivalent) in Mathematics and two science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).
For the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, please contact admissions ug.applicants@sussex.ac.uk
Scottish Higher - CCCCC
Scottish Highers must include either Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology or Maths.
You will also need Scottish National 5 in Mathematics and two Science subjects with grade B in each.
You must supply evidence of your potential to do well in a demanding science degree.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 27 points
From the full International Baccalaureate Diploma, including at least 4 in relevant HL science (Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Physics, Psychology or Maths).
Successful application for the foundation year will be evidence of academic ability in a demanding science degree.
T Level - D
Distinction overall in the Science T Level
You will also need GCSE (or equivalent) in Mathematics and two science subjects with grade 5 in each (or grade B).
Is a Foundation Year for you?
We welcome students with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences, including:
-those who aren't sure which subject they'd like to specialise in
-those who don't have the right combination of subjects for direct entry into Year 1
-those who don't meet the expected requirements for direct entry into Year 1
-those who are returning to education after some time away.
English language requirements
Test
Grade
Additional details
IELTS (Academic)
6
Including at least 5.5 in each component.
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
PTE Academic
59
Including at least 59 in all four skills.
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
80
TOEFL (iBT), including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing.
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
This section shows the range of grades students were previously accepted with - learn more. It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
Data from:
This course
Date range:
2022-2024
Grades held by accepted students
CCD
Most common
CCD Most common
BCC
Highest grades
DDD
Lowest grades
Offer rate for UK school & college leavers
98%
98% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.
How do you compare?
See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.
N/A
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025-26. Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis.
Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · {
"original": "South East England",
"grouped": "South East England"
} · Sep 2025