Foundation Pathway Program – Securing admission to an undergraduate course is a major decision for students enrolling in any subject or course. In this scenario, an international student is faced with the dual challenges of selecting the right course and adjusting to an entirely alien setup. Therefore, this phase is crucial to help students assimilate with the environment and provide the necessary scaffolding to expedite the process.
Reputed universities offer pathway and foundation courses that act as stepping stones in students’ academic journeys as they progress towards fulfilling their educational objectives. First started in UK universities, these preparatory programs typically cultivate in students the necessary skills and abilities required to pursue their higher education. However, the acute lack of information on such courses has given rise to several myths about foundation courses, preventing students from enrolling in them before they proceed in their endeavours. So, here are some myths of foundation and pathway courses, busted:
Myths About Foundation Pathway Program
Foundation and pathway courses are for underperformers.
Fact: Although pathway and foundation courses serve as platforms for students with average grades to secure admissions in reputed universities, they are meant for a higher purpose. These courses help international students secure admissions at their preferred universities and hone skills in different areas such as communication, reading, math, and science in their home countries before proceeding with their graduation degrees. Hence, the only motive for students to enroll in these courses should not be to secure admissions despite low grades. Rather, these courses are as intellectually stimulating as other regular courses.
The lectures are diluted versions of the regular course lectures.
Fact: Many students believe that foundation course lectures are rather simple and require little effort at their end. This myth primarily stems from the fact that these courses are viewed as mere preparatory avenues for the actual undergraduate and graduate courses. However, foundation and pathway courses are typically learner-oriented in their approach, expecting students to exert equal and considerable efforts in the learning process. Owing to the small class size, student interactions typically become more meaningful and focused. Moreover, students must follow a meticulous schedule to ensure that they make the most of the opportunity to adapt to a challenging and enriching educational environment.
These courses are meant only to improve one’s English communication and language skills.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, foundation and pathway courses aim to tread way beyond merely facilitating English proficiency. Yes, developing the preliminary English skills is an essential aspect of foundation courses, particularly for international students. However, these courses also help students generally become confident in their skills and abilities in various subjects, including reading, mathematics, and area-specific research. Such subjects enable in-depth knowledge in various domains and help students make an informed decision on what field to major in.
All foundation courses are degree-specific.
Fact: Although most foundation courses aim to help students proceed with securing a specific degree of their choice, some of these courses are also more generic in nature. These courses allow them to evaluate their options and make a mindful decision about what field to opt for. Thus, students need not always have a definite plan with regard to their subject area before enrolling in a pathway course. Accordingly, they may either choose a generic or specific foundation program.
A student would have to pursue his/her degree in the same college after the foundation course.
Fact: Although the natural course after completing your foundation course would be to pursue your degree in the same university, students may choose to switch universities after their preparatory courses. However, students must present their academic records and course curricula to the university to which they wish to apply. Moreover, each university has its own admission criteria that students must fulfil.
Just like a child requires initial handholding and support to gain a firm foothold while learning to walk, a foundation program scaffolds students to facilitate a smooth, seamless academic journey. Today, several international students are availing Foundation Pathway Programs at the initial stages of their higher studies. Are you an aspiring student looking to venture into a reputed international university and seeking to complete a foundation pathway program? We would be happy to help you with this process. Visit SecureMyScholarship to know more!
