+International Year

Who is the International Year for?

If you meet the academic entry requirements of a James Madison University bachelor's degree and need to improve your English language IELTS score, we offer the International Year program.

Why study the International Year?

The International Year is a great choice if you'd like to improve your English language proficiency while also benefiting from a supportive environment with dedicated faculty.

• Dedicated academic support to prepare you for university - you will receive specialist support and teaching so that on completion of the International Year, you'll be ready to progress to degree study at JMU.
• Graduate in four years, similar to direct entry students - studying on the International Year will allow you to complete your degree on time. 
• Be a part of the university community from day one - JMU has a thriving community where students feel that they're part of a large, supportive family. 
• Taught at the on-campus International Study Center (ISC) - the dedicated ISC will provide a safe, supportive environment where you can work and socialize with other international students. 

What will you study?

The program is split into courses across semesters. Your program duration will depend on your English language skill level on entry.

Pathway-specific academic courses

When will you progress to continue your degree program?

*A student's ISC study plan is determined by their arrival English placement test and can be longer or shorter than their original study plan in the offer letter. Student are required to complete their study plans at the ISC consecutively without skipping a semester. Students who have completed their ISC programs are eligible to take summer break. 

Academic credit

You will take 9 first-year-level courses - and have the opportunity to earn up to 28 credits. These credits count towards your bachelor's degree graduation requirements.