346 Preparatory Year Programs 2023

What is a Preparatory Year?

A preparatory year is a program designed to prepare students for their first year of higher education. Preparatory year programs often consist of language courses for those who are not native speakers in the language of study. Foundational undergraduate-level courses may also be included in a preparatory year. A preparatory year differs from a foundation year in the courses required and the objective of study.

What are the benefits of taking a Preparatory Year?

A preparatory year can help ensure a smoother transition into higher education from secondary school. Students who have chosen to study abroad also find the language courses in a preparatory year beneficial, not only through the duration of their continued studies, but also in their careers. A preparatory year can help lay the groundwork for an undergraduate diploma, associate’s or bachelor’s degree program.

What do we study in a Preparatory Year?

Students primarily take courses in the language of study during their preparatory year. Language courses in the preparatory year are intensive and aimed at promoting fluency in the target language to a point where academic study can be successfully undertaken. Preparatory year language courses are available in English, Czech language, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and more. Preparatory year language courses not only cover reading, writing, speaking and listening in the target language, but also history and culture. 

What kind of career improvement can you expect with a Preparatory Year?

By opening the door to undergraduate study, a preparatory year also creates the opportunity for significant career improvement. Whether the student is a recent secondary school graduate, or someone returning to study after a period of work, a preparatory year can help ensure success in a degree program. Graduates from degree programs who undertook a preparatory year may find it easier to enter the workforce with a higher level of confidence – not only in their language ability, but also in their understanding of the subject they studied.

How much does it cost to take a Preparatory Year?

The cost of taking a preparatory year can vary significantly depending on the school, country and subject undertaken. A preparatory year may be comparable in price to one year of a degree program, or it may cost less. It is best to contact the school or university offering the preparatory year program to obtain more information about costs. The admissions department at the school may also be able to provide information about financial assistance in the form of scholarships, if available.

Why take a Preparatory Year Online?

A preparatory year online is an opportunity for anyone to complete this requirement without having to significantly adjust one’s schedule. State-of-the-art e-learning technology offered in preparatory year online courses helps bring the classroom to the student. Preparatory year online students get all of the same benefits as those who attend courses on campus, while also benefiting from a more flexible class schedule. Online preparatory year programs are equally as rigorous as on-campus ones, and the resulting credit hours are valued equally. 

To learn more about preparatory year programs, both online and on campus, read more on this website. You can request more information about any programs that interest you using the handy web form on the program detail page.