Students gathered outside

Leeds International Study Centre

Prepare for studying at the University of Leeds

Your route to studying at the University of Leeds

Leeds International Study Centre works in collaboration with the University of Leeds to prepare students from outside the UK for successful degree study. Our programmes offer students the opportunity to study abroad in the UK, and provide additional support to students who do not meet the entry requirements to apply directly at the University of Leeds.

The pathway programmes at the Leeds International Study Centre are run by Study Group, in collaboration with the University of Leeds. Study Group is a world leader in education and training for international students.

Why study abroad with us?

Build your confidence

Each pathway programme is designed to ease you into life in the UK – with small classes, attentive teaching styles and tailored courses for international students, as well as a focus on improving your English language skills. You will also take part in lectures, seminars and tutorials, so that you know what to expect when you progress to your degree at the University of Leeds.

Constant support

The International Study Centre is built with you in mind; our team of helpful and friendly staff here make settling in and getting used to life abroad that much easier. They can offer support and advice at any time during your programme, and small class sizes mean you'll also get individual attention from teachers, making it easy to ask questions about your studies.

Shared experiences

All of our students are going through a similar experience here – living away from home, experiencing a brand-new culture and meeting many new people. You will be surrounded by international students, living and learning together, and will become a part of the global community within the International Study Centre.

Career development

We have career development activities for students to take part in alongside their academic programme, giving you a chance to practice and build employability skills and prepare you for success beyond university. This is reinforced by the strong enterprising business links that the University of Leeds has to offer, which you will have access to once you progress to a degree.

You'll also have the opportunity to build up work experience by taking up part-time employment or a work placement during your studies. Find out more about working rights as part of your visa.

Welcome to your Leeds future

Your wellbeing matters

We’re committed to supporting your positive wellbeing and mental health both prior to your enrolment and whilst you are studying with us. For that reason, we offer a free Student Assistance Programme (SAP) to help you deal with any personal or student related problems that might be affecting your studies or day-to-day life.

Provided by Health Assured and Endsleigh Insurance, the Student Assistance Programme is designed to help you manage and enhance your mental health and overall wellbeing through two main features including:

Wellbeing connected

A unique counsellor-led service available 24 hours a day. 7 days a week, ready to respond to any need for emotional or practical support from international students.

Health hub

The health hub includes a range of ways to help you keep track of different aspects of your health and fitness such as water intake and sleep. There’s also a range of healthy, easy-to-make recipes to give inspiration as well as access to loads of articles, podcasts and videos.

You will receive more information about how to access this service, once you have confirmed your place. 

90% of students

who completed their pathway programme at Leeds International Study Centre were eligible to progress to a degree course at the University of Leeds in 2023.

Great locations

Leeds International Study Centre has two locations in Leeds. Regardless of the programme of study, you will benefit from excellent facilities and student support.

Stadium Campus

Located in the world-famous AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium. The stadium is home to Leeds Rhinos rugby club and next to Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

City Campus

The new City Campus is in Leeds City Centre and is only a 5-minute walk from the Brotherton House Study Inn accommodation and a 10-minute walk from Leeds railway station. The modern facilities at this location include classroom spaces, a student common room and learning space for independent and group study.

Explore Leeds
University of Leeds ISC student Dalal

‘‘I think the International Study Centre prepares us for what it is like to be at the University. I think I am more prepared to do the International Foundation Year before going to the University of Leeds as I can learn more. Moving from high school to university is a big difference, so you want that step in-between, where people can support you and tell you what it is like to be at university, and you can actually experience it.’’

Dalal from Kuwait

Studying International Foundation Year in Science, Engineering and Computing

Progressed to Physics with Astrophysics MPhys at the University of Leeds

An engineering student at the University of Leeds

Skills for your career

Develop skills at University, and then start your career in the UK with a post-study work visa for international students.

International student in the library

Why the University of Leeds?

Ranked 20th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2022) and in the world top 100 (QS World University Rankings 2023), the University of Leeds is a great place to study.

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!