International Foundation Year

A foundation year, offered by the Twente Pathway College, is a preparatory year that helps prospective students get ready to start a bachelor’s programme. This one‑year programme supports students in reaching the required level in subject knowledge, academic skills, and language proficiency. For some programmes, completing a foundation year is necessary to qualify for admission. Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as ‘year 0’. After finishing the foundation year, students move on to year 1 of their chosen bachelor’s programme, together with other Dutch and international students.

A foundation year is mainly intended for prospective students who do not yet meet the university’s direct admission requirements. This may apply to students who completed their previous education outside Europe, come from non-Dutch educational systems, or hold a diploma that is not equivalent to qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). Those who do meet the requirements can enter the bachelor’s programme directly. It is therefore always smart to check the specific admission criteria on the website of the programme you are interested in. If it turns out you do not qualify for direct entry, a foundation year at Twente Pathway College is an option to progress to the University of Twente.

During your foundation year, there will be possibilities to retake any failed exams, and the support team will carefully monitor your study progress and offer guidance when required. Students are only allowed to stay in the Netherlands for one year of preparatory education, which the Twente Pathway College International Foundation Year is. After this, you need to be enrolled at a higher education institution in the Netherlands, otherwise, your visa to study will no longer be valid.

• If you pass the foundation year successfully, you have guaranteed admissibility to the bachelor’s you have chosen during your application for the Twente Pathway College International Foundation Year. Keep in mind that there are different tracks which lead to different bachelor's programmes you are admissible for.
• When you do not pass your foundation year successfully, there will be no option to start your studies at UT directly. However, if you still want to study at UT, check the different given options.

You are allowed to have one gap year after successfully completing your Twente Pathway College International Foundation Year. Keep in mind, that if you take a gap year, your Dutch residence permit will be revoked as you are no longer studying at UT. You will then have to go through our visa process again if you decide to join UT after your gap year. Please note that students may take only one gap year. This means that students who start their studies at Twente Pathway College (TPC) in 2025 must start their studies at UT no later than September 2027.