Foundation Program for Indonesian students: A pathway to university
What is a foundation year program?
A foundation year program is a bridging pathway designed to prepare students for university studies. Indonesian students planning to study abroad can enroll in an international foundation program tailored to their needs. This fast-track route to earning a bachelor's degree combines academic modules with skills training, equipping students with the knowledge and abilities required for success in tertiary education.
Students enrolled in a foundation program get to kick-start their study abroad experience in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK and Ireland, offering a unique chance to learn while enjoying new experiences.
For Indonesian, entry into foundation year programs typically require SMA/SMK certificates, school transcripts, or predicted grades. Students from international schools may also apply using qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge IGCSE/A-Level.
Foundation programs are typically completed within a year but can be completed in as quickly as eight months. This allows you to pursue your degree earlier and graduate anywhere from one to three years ahead of your peers depending on your choice of course and learning outcomes.
How does a foundation program work?
A typical foundation year consists of modules that will prepare you for specific undergraduate degrees within relevant disciplines.
Often, these modules are carefully mapped out to equip you with relevant subject knowledge, helping you advance to your desired undergraduate courses once they have cleared the program entry requirements.
Where to do a foundation year?
Universities | Many universities offer foundation year programs as part of their institution to help students transition smoothly into undergraduate courses. Completing the program often guarantees a spot in one of the university's degree courses. Taking a foundation program at a university gives you access to university resources like libraries, student clubs, and campus facilities. You also establish familiarity with the academic environment, making the transition to undergraduate studies smoother. |
Partner institutions or colleges | Some foundation year programs are offered at partner colleges or pathway providers that collaborate with universities. These programs still prepare individuals for direct entry into the partner university upon successful completion. |
Standalone institutions | Some independent institutions offer foundation year programs that allow students to apply to multiple universities after completion. |
Key benefits of international foundation programs
Benefit 1. Bridging necessary academic skills gaps
Foundation year programs help students who did not meet the direct entry requirements of a university to get enrolled into an undergraduate degree. This includes gaps in subjects or qualifications that align with the university’s prerequisites, ensuring a smooth transition to the degree program.
Benefit 2. Language preparation
Many foundation courses include English language training, especially for students whose first language isn’t English to improve their overall scores and academic readiness.
Benefit 3. Shortened pre-university pathway
Skip the traditional pre-university routes and fast-track your undergraduate journey with a one-year foundation program. Successfully complete it in just a year or even under and move straight into your chosen undergraduate degree while skipping the rigorous entry requirements.
Benefit 4. Overseas experience
By studying abroad at a younger age, foundation year students get more time to cope with the university environment, and the new destination's culture and way of living. Make connections with local and international students and gain exposure to new perspectives.
Benefit 5. Smaller class size
Experience university-style lectures in a smaller class size and expect teaching and learning methods that encourage more critical thinking. Students gain more face time with lecturers from smaller class sizes too.
Benefit 6. Guaranteed university spot
Successfully completing your foundation course indicates that you've fulfilled your undergraduate study's entry requirements, and you have a guaranteed entry into the university.
Benefit 7. Career advantage
With the time saved in obtaining your undergraduate degree, you potentially join the workforce earlier and start gaining experience sooner than your peers.
Types of foundation programs
The various types of foundation programs can be based on academic skills, student needs, and destination country. Here are some examples.
Types of Programs | What is it? | Who is it for? |
General Foundation Program | It offers broad academic preparation for university. It covers a wide range of foundation year subjects, helping students develop a strong academic foundation and skills. | It is designed for students who are not yet sure about which specific field of study they want to pursue. |
Subject-Specific Foundation Program | It focuses on a particular field, such as business, life sciences, or arts. It provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for further study in that specific discipline. | It is ideal for students who already know what they want to take for their undergraduate degree course. |
International Foundation Program | It prepares students for the academic environment of a foreign country while offering support in English language proficiency and other essential skills. | It is specifically designed for international students who wish to study abroad. |
English Language Foundation Program | It focuses on improving English language skill for students who do not meet the required language standards for university entry. Students also receive training in academic skills such as reading, writing, and research. | For students who do not meet the required language standards for university entry. |
Fast-Track Foundation Program | It is an intensive course that condenses the content into a quicker, more intensive study schedule, allowing students to progress to university faster. | For students who want to complete their foundation in a shorter time frame. |
Pathway or Twinning Foundation Program | It combines local study with the option to transfer to a university abroad. Students begin their studies locally and then complete their degree program at an international partner university. | For students who want an international exposure but start locally. Starting from a local campus might incur in an overall lower tuition fee than transferring abroad. |
Learn more about types of foundation programs and get application guidance from our expert education counsellors.
How much does a foundation program cost?
Foundation program fees vary by destination and institution, but most foundation year tuition fee range between USD 10,000 to 35,000 per year. Programs in Australia and the UK tend to be on the higher end, while New Zealand, Canada, and Ireland may offer slightly lower tuition depending on the course.
In addition to tuition, student should also prepare for living expenses, which typically add around USD 10,000 to 25,000 per year, depending on the city, accommodation type, and lifestyle. Some universities also offer scholarships or tuition discounts for foundation students, helping reduce overall study costs.
Entry requirements for international students
Entry requirements for foundation programs differ across universities, but most of them maintain flexible criteria to accommodate students transitioning from various education systems.
Generally, Indonesian students need to show they have completed high school, which can be proven with SMA/SMK transcripts, school certificates, or predicted grades. Students from international schools may use qualifications such as IGCSE/O-Level, A-Level, or IB results.
Most programs also require proof of English proficiency (an IELTS score between 5.0 and 6.0 is commonly accepted). Additional documents such as a passport, personal statement, or portfolio (for design programs) may be required depending on the university and pathway.
Popular foundation courses for Indonesian students
At IDP Indonesia, we partner with over 1,000 quality universities and institutions across Australia, New Zealand, UK, Ireland and Canada. Our dedicated counsellors are on hand to help you narrow down the most ideal course.
Simply book a free appointment to get all the details on academic requirements, application fees, and program commencement dates. Our counsellors will guide you every step of the way.
Kickstart your global education journey with IDP Indonesia
Whether you’re in your final year of high school, waiting for your graduation results, or have recently completed an international curriculum such as IGSCE, A-Levels, or IB, it’s never too late to apply for an international foundation program!