Foundation Year
Students who meet the required academic standards will enter directly into the core curriculum and their chosen major. For those who need additional support, the Foundation Year is an integrated first stage of your degree that builds the skills you need to thrive at university.
About the Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is a structured part of your degree at the University of New Haven – Riyadh. It is designed for students who show strong potential but need additional preparation in English, mathematics, or academic skills before progressing to the core curriculum and major courses. The program builds competence across four areas, giving you a solid base for success in the years ahead.
What You Will Study
English language
Develop academic English skills including reading, writing, listening, and spoken communication. Build the vocabulary and fluency you need for university-level study.
Mathematics
Strengthen your mathematical foundations, from algebra and statistics to the quantitative reasoning skills required across business, analytics, and technology programs.
Academic study skills
Learn how to succeed at an American university: critical thinking, academic writing, research methods, time management, and effective study techniques.
Design thinking with AI
Explore creative problem-solving through design thinking methodology, combined with an introduction to artificial intelligence tools and their practical applications.
Your pathway through the degree
Together, these four areas will help you develop the prerequisites for a successful career at the University of New Haven. Once you have met the completion standards, you will progress to the core curriculum and your chosen major.
Entry requirements
To join the Foundation Year, you will need:
- Completed secondary school (or equivalent)
- A minimum of IELTS 5.0 or equivalent (TOEFL iBT 45, Qiyas 58%, or Duolingo 85)
If you are unsure whether you qualify for direct entry to the core curriculum or the Foundation Year, our admissions team will guide you. Contact us at admissions@sa.newhaven.edu.
Completion standards
To progress from the Foundation Year to the core curriculum and your major, you must achieve:
- IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) in English
- A minimum of 70% in all Foundation Year courses
- A minimum Foundation Year GPA of 2.5/4.0 across all subjects
Students who do not meet these standards at the end of the program will receive specific feedback on their areas for improvement and will be offered additional time in the Foundation Year (up to one year) to focus on those areas. Additional tuition will apply.
Program details
| Location | MISK3016 3016 Mohammed Bin Salman Boulevard 2531, Irqah, Riyadh 12591 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia |
| Language of instruction | English |
| Start dates | August 2026 and January 2027 |
| Progression | Core curriculum and major courses |
All program details are subject to final regulatory approval. The University reserves the right to amend program content and structure.
Interested in learning more?
Request information and our admissions team will be in touch.
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