Why Choose University of Essex (Kaplan Pathways)?
Top-12 UK University with Research Excellence
Ranked #12 in the Guardian University Guide 2026 (highest ever in 60-year history). Four social science subjects in UK top 10 for research quality (REF 2021): Sociology, Economics, Politics, and Modern Languages. Five subjects in UK top 10 for research power.
Strong Graduate Employability
86% of graduates in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2025). 89% of postgraduate graduates in highly skilled employment. Top 25 in UK for graduates in employment. Career support from day one with dedicated Careers Service.
Guaranteed Pathway Progression
Kaplan International Pathways offers on-campus preparation with guaranteed progression to University of Essex degrees upon meeting requirements. Foundation Certificate leads to Year 1, International Year One leads to Year 2 of undergraduate degrees.
Generous Progression Scholarships
£5,000 automatic scholarship for undergraduate progression from Kaplan pathways. £6,500 automatic scholarship for Master's progression. Additional university scholarships available ranging £2,000-£7,000.
Truly International Community
Students from 140+ countries. Ranked 14th globally for international outlook (THE 2026). Top in East of England for student positivity (NSS 2025). Over 30 cultural societies on campus.
Affordable Living & Strategic Location
Colchester living costs £1,050-£1,600/month (30-40% lower than London). University accommodation from £127/week. Just 55 minutes by train to London Liverpool Street. Guaranteed on-campus housing.
UK Graduate Route Access
2-year post-study work visa for Bachelor's/Master's graduates (3 years for PhD). Unrestricted work rights; no sponsorship required. Pathway to Skilled Worker visa and permanent residency.
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Rankings &
Achievements
#456 (Global); #44 (UK)
QS World Ranking 2026
#351-400
THE World Ranking 2025
#12 in UK
Guardian University Guide 2026
#29 in UK
Complete University Guide 2026
Campus Locations
Colchester Campus (Main)
Set in 200 acres of award-winning parkland at Wivenhoe Park, this campus is 3km from Colchester city centre and houses the University of Essex International College (Kaplan).
- Facilities: The Albert Sloman Library (open 24/7), Essex Sport Arena, and state-of-the-art labs.
- Accommodation: Over 3,000 beds across North Towers, South Towers, The Houses, University Quays, and The Meadows. Prices range from £127–£290/week.
Southend Campus
Located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea town centre, this campus focuses on health, business, and drama programmes. It features modern facilities within the Gateway Building.
Loughton Campus
Based in a stately Victorian home, this specialist campus is dedicated to acting and drama programmes at the renowned East 15 Acting School.
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Course Highlights
|
Programme |
Duration |
Tuition (GBP) |
Intakes |
Progression To |
|
Foundation Certificate (Humanities) |
2-3 terms |
From £19,990 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 1 of UG degree |
|
Foundation Certificate (Social Sciences) |
2-3 terms |
From £19,990 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 1 of UG degree |
|
Foundation Certificate (Science & Health) |
2-3 terms |
From £22,050 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 1 of UG degree |
|
International Year One (Business) |
2-3 terms |
From £20,550 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 2 of UG degree |
|
International Year One (Law) |
2-3 terms |
From £20,550 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 2 LLB Law |
|
International Year One (Computer Science) |
2-3 terms |
From £22,080 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 2 BSc Computer Science |
|
International Year One (Psychology) |
2-3 terms |
From £22,080 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Year 2 BSc Psychology |
|
Pre-Master's (Social Sciences) |
2-3 terms |
From £21,950 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Master's degree |
|
Pre-Master's (Science & Health) |
2-3 terms |
From £22,350 |
Sep, Jan, May |
Master's degree |
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Popular Study Areas
Foundation Certificate (Humanities)
Foundation Certificate (Social Sciences)
Foundation Certificate (Science & Health)
International Year One (Business)
International Year One (Law)
International Year One (Computer Science)
International Year One (Psychology)
Pre-Master's (Social Sciences)
Pre-Master's (Science & Health)
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Entry Requirements
Foundation Certificate:
- Academic: Completion of Class XII with 50-60% (varies by pathway)
- English: IELTS 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent PTE/TOEFL)
- Age: Typically 17+ at start of course
International Year One:
- Academic: Completion of Class XII with 60-70% (varies by pathway)
- English: IELTS 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent PTE/TOEFL)
- Subject-specific prerequisites may apply
Pre-Master's:
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with minimum 50-55% (or equivalent)
- English: IELTS 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent PTE/TOEFL)
- Work experience may be required for certain Master's programmes (e.g., MBA)
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Scholarships at University of Essex (Kaplan Pathways)
Automatic on meeting progression requirements
Automatic on meeting progression requirements
Based on exam results; competitive
Application required; 30 awards total
Automatic for eligible self-funded students
Automatic for eligible self-funded students
Merit-based; application required
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Student Support Services
Dedicated international advisers, visa/CAS support, pre-arrival orientation, airport pickup, cultural integration programmes, 30+ international societies.
24/7 Albert Sloman Library access, study skills workshops, academic writing support, disability services, CareerHub job portal, employer networking events.
Student Services Hub, mental health counselling, medical centre, Essex Sport Arena (gym included with on-campus housing), 180+ student clubs and societies, guaranteed accommodation for first-year students.
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