Your A-level results did not go as planned.
If your A-level results fell below the grades your conditional offer required, you are now in Clearing and you have more options than the UCAS portal shows.
Direct university places in Clearing go fast, and many competitive programmes are already full. The OnCampus International Year One is a different route: a one-year programme that takes you directly into Year 2 of a UK undergraduate degree, with a guaranteed place at a partner university on successful completion.
You do not need to find a university willing to lower its grade requirements for you. You earn your place through the IY1 year.
For international students who need time for visa processing, the November 2026 intake is a confirmed fallback with no penalty.
100%
Received a university offer
Students who studied at our one-to-one study centres for academic year 2024/25
93%
Eligible to progress to their first choice university
Students who studied at our one to one study centres for academic year 2023/24
95%
Student satisfaction rate
Student Satisfactory survey for academic year 2024/25
Visa
For your foundation year and degree
Why choose the International Year One?
Focused Pathway
Study a programme equivalent to Year 1 of a UK undergraduate degree and progress directly to Year 2.
Guaranteed Progression
Meet academic and attendance criteria and secure your place in the second year of your degree.
Inclusive Learning Environment
Join a global community and build lasting international friendships and networks.
Total Support
Get personalised academic support from expert tutors every step of the way.
On-Campus Experience
You study at a university campus with access to facilities, libraries, and student life from the moment you arrive.
iCAS - One Visa for Both Years
OnCampus iCAS (Integrated CAS) means your Certificate of Acceptance for Studies covers both the IY1 year and your progression to Year 2 of your degree. You do not apply for a new Student Visa between the two programmes.
Improved English Language
Improve your English language level with our 'Extended' programme.
Is the International Year One the right route for you?
The IY1 is designed for students who have completed senior secondary education, A-Levels, IB, or a national equivalent but do not currently hold a university offer for September 2026.
If you have only completed O-Levels or GCSEs without a senior secondary year, the Undergraduate Foundation Programme is the more appropriate starting point. It leads to Year 1 of a UK degree rather than Year 2.
If you hold a bachelor's degree and are considering postgraduate study, the Pre-Master's Programme is the relevant route.
Our trusted university partners
Whether you're looking for a vibrant city campus, a university with strong industry connections, or a research-focused institution, we’ll help match you with the best option for your goals.
iCAS: one visa from the IY1 to your undergraduate degree
The gap between a pathway year and a university degree creates a practical concern for international students in Clearing: reapplying for a Student Visa under time pressure, between two programmes.
OnCampus iCAS removes that step entirely. Your Integrated CAS covers the International Year One and your progression to Year 2 at your partner university. One application. One visa. No gap. No second application during your degree transition.
FAQ
Yes. Clearing 2026 opens 2 July. OnCampus accepts IY1 applications for September 2026 throughout the Clearing period. November and January 2027 intakes are also available if September is not achievable.
Yes. If your A-level results fell below your conditional offer threshold, you enter Clearing. The OnCampus IY1 accepts applications through Clearing and leads directly into Year 2 of a UK undergraduate degree with guaranteed progression. You earn your place through the programme year rather than competing for a lower-grade direct offer. September 2026 places are still open. November is also available if visa timing is a concern.
Applications for September 2026 are still open. International students need to allow time for CAS issuance and visa processing typically six to eight weeks. The earlier you apply, the more straightforward the timeline. Enquire now and we will confirm what is achievable for your specific situation.
iCAS (Integrated CAS) means your Certificate of Acceptance for Studies covers both the International Year One and your progression to Year 2 of your UK degree. You do not need to apply for a new Student Visa between the two programmes. In the time pressure of Clearing, this removes one significant administrative step. This is a specific OnCampus feature and is not standard across all pathway providers.
If your qualifications do not meet the IY1 entry threshold, your counsellor will assess whether the Undergraduate Foundation Programme is suitable. The UFP has four intakes per year — June, September, November, and January. You are not limited to a single entry point.
OnCampus provides a tuition fee refund on first visa refusal where you have followed our application guidance. This is stated in your offer letter before you pay.
If visa processing extends beyond September, your place transfers to the November 2026 or January 2027 intake at no penalty. Your CAS is re-issued for the new start date.
The International Year One is for students who have completed senior secondary education — A-Levels, IB, or equivalent. It leads directly into Year 2 of a UK degree. The Undergraduate Foundation Programme is for students who completed secondary school without a senior secondary qualification and leads into Year 1 of their degree.