PDVL The
Prince Foundation
Established in 2013, The Prince is a Premier International Foundation Course—meticulously designed, structured, and led by PDVL Global. First delivered in collaboration with our inaugural partner, City College Plymouth, the programme is now entering a new phase of expansion across the United Kingdom, with academic centres opening in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Durham from February 2026.
Welcoming students from across the world, PDVL The Prince Foundation offers far more than a traditional foundation course. It provides an exceptional academic and cultural journey for students aged 15 and above—those seeking direct entry into leading UK universities, as well as those simply wishing to experience world-class education in an English-speaking environment. For many of our partner schools across Asia, it also serves as an integrated study abroad experience—offering students the chance to enhance their personal development, broaden life perspectives, and participate in unique dual diploma and credit transfer arrangements across a network of over 100 partner high schools.
Delivered entirely in English over an intensive 18-week period, the programme leads directly to Year 1 undergraduate study at over 80 respected universities, including numerous members of the prestigious Russell Group.
Key Facts
RQF Level:
Level 3 (Pre-University Level)
Class Size:
Class size range from 16 – 22 students
Class Hours:
Minimum 21 hours per week
Durations:
18 Weeks
English Requirements:
PASS PDVL Internal English Test
Entry Requirements:
At least 5 credits in secondary school result including English and Maths
A Gateway to World-Class Universities
With a strong academic foundation and holistic approach to learning, The Prince goes far beyond a typical foundation course. It prepares students not only for university entry but also for thriving in an English-speaking academic environment—through a carefully crafted curriculum aligned with A-Level standards, EAP (English for Academic Purposes), IELTS preparation, and practical study skills.
It is a challenging and yet inspiring programme that has been designed to provide international students with the academic literacy, skills and knowledge required for undergraduate study in a UK higher education institution. Students will have a fantastic study abroad experience with some city excursions or university campus visits during the course. The Prince is also suitable for those who do meet the entry requirement for university but wish to gain a firm foundation in studying in a British academic environment before starting their undergraduate studies.
Moreover, students will also need to undergo IELTS training during the programme and sit for the IELTS examination in May/June.
Designed for Personal and Global Growth
This programme welcomes students from around the world and also serves as a unique study abroad opportunity for many of our partner schools across Asia. Students benefit from:
- Small class sizes and personalised supports
- Host family living for deeper cultural and linguistic immersion
- Dual diploma and credit transfer options across 100+ partner high schools
Course Assesment & Grading
Course Assesment
With a strong academic foundation and holistic approach to learning, The Prince goes far beyond a typical foundation course. It prepares students not only for university entry but also for thriving in an English-speaking academic environment—through a carefully crafted curriculum aligned with A-Level standards, EAP (English for Academic Purposes), IELTS preparation, and practical study skills.
It is a challenging and yet inspiring programme that has been designed to provide international students with the academic literacy, skills and knowledge required for undergraduate study in a UK higher education institution. Students will have a fantastic study abroad experience with some city excursions or university campus visits during the course. The Prince is also suitable for those who do meet the entry requirement for university but wish to gain a firm foundation in studying in a British academic environment before starting their undergraduate studies.
Moreover, students will also need to undergo IELTS training during the programme and sit for the IELTS examination in May/June.
Grading Criteria
Pass marks for each summative assessment will be awarded as follows :
Pass: 40–54%
Pass with Merit: 55–69%
Pass with Distinction: 70% and above
Overall Classification will be based on their final scores, taking into account the weighting of specific modules within the course.
Pathway Details
Business Pathway
Courses Content
- Module 1 Understanding Business
- Module 2 Economic
- Module 3 Accounting & Finance
- Module 4 Mathematics
- Module 5 English for Academic Purposes (EAP), IELTS & Study Skills
About the Course
The Business Pathway leads to a wide range of degree courses in the university, from business, education, humanities, and law, to social sciences. The course covers every aspect of the business world, from the basic understanding of business to accounting, finance, and economics. With additional support from the college academic team and welfare team, City College Plymouth graduates will have the practical skills and knowledge at least equivalent to A Level, to further study business and relevant subjects at the university level.
Science Pathway
Courses Content
- Module 1 Biology
- Module 2 Physics
- Module 3 Chemistry
- Module 4 Advanced Mathematics
- Module 5 English for Academic Purposes (EAP), IELTS & Study Skills
- Module 6 Mathematics
About the Course
The Science Pathway leads to a diverse range of science-based degree courses, encompassing fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and various branches of engineering. This pathway provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to pursue specialised and interdisciplinary scientific careers.
Discover Our Foundation Cities
Where Academic Excellence Meets Cultural Immersion
The PDVL Prince Foundation Programme is proudly delivered across four carefully selected UK cities – each offering a unique academic experience enriched by local culture, history, and community.
Plymouth
A charming coastal city with deep maritime roots, Plymouth offers a peaceful, student-friendly environment perfect for focused study. Its slower pace and seaside setting make it ideal for those seeking a supportive, close-knit academic experience.
Edinburgh
Scotland’s iconic capital blends academic prestige with world-renowned arts, history, and culture. From historic castles to international festivals, Edinburgh offers students an inspiring backdrop for both learning and living.
Glasgow
A vibrant, modern metropolis known for its architecture, energy, and creative industries. Glasgow delivers a dynamic urban student experience, paired with strong academic support and welcoming local communities.
Accomodation
Accommodation Options
Your Home Away From Home
PDVL The Prince Foundation is committed to providing safe, comfortable, and accessible accommodation to ensure our students have a positive and secure living experience during their studies.
There are various types of accommodations available to suit different preferences and lifestyles —from homestays with local families to student residences and private studios.
Important Notes
If you are under the age of 18, we will place you with a family, unless your parents provide written consent for you to live independently in another type of accommodation. If host family accommodation is no longer available when you apply, you will be offered a Hall of Residence or a room in a shared student house.
Your first choice of accommodation may not always be available, so please check with our consultants for the availability of your preferred accommodation.
In rare circumstances where no standard option is available, the college will reserve the right to allocate affected students as it deem to be appropriate based on all considerations and following our safeguarding policy, this might include a change in the accommodation package and it will be a mandatory charges. Changes made in such cases are mandatory and do not constitute valid grounds for programme withdrawal.
Host Family Accommodation
Room Type: Single or Twin Room
Facilities: Shared bathroom, shared common areas
Meals: 2–3 meals per day included
Laundry: Included
Internet: Free access
Living with a host family offers full cultural immersion and a warm, supportive environment —especially ideal for students under 18. All host families are carefully selected and regularly inspected by our campus teams.
Many students build lifelong friendships with their host families, gaining not just a place to stay, but a second home.
Hall of Residence
Room Type: Single or Twin Room
Facilities: Shared kitchen, fully furnished
Community: Shared flat with other students (same-gender sharing)
Internet: Free access
This is a great option for students who enjoy independent living while still having access to a social, multicultural environment. Most halls are within easy reach of campus, and popular with international students.
Studio Apartment
Room Type: Private single room
Facilities: Private bathroom and private kitchen
Location: Privately managed student halls
Reception: On-site support during office hour
Internet: Free access
Studios are ideal for students who prefer complete privacy and autonomy in their living arrangements.
Schools Partnership
PDVL is the exclusive representative of City College Plymouth in the Asia-Pacific region, and we have been closely collaborating with the college on recruitment and partnership initiatives. Each year, PDVL, in collaboration with City College Plymouth, brings Guest Lectures & Taster sessions, and the Turing Scheme to local high schools across Asia, fostering academic and cultural exchange. Additionally, we also organise Study Trips to the UK in collaboration with the college.
Japan
PDVL’s team in Japan engages in academic collaborations with different high schools, offering specially tailored short academic trips for high school students, establishing international classes for schools involved in international education, and implementing double diploma projects through various collaboration models with high schools.
Taiwan
PDVL’s team in Taiwan collaborates with the local education bureau to establish academic credits for high school students in subjects ranging from business to English. Students have the option to select PDVL courses as part of their minor credits, which are officially recognised by the educational board as credits toward their high school qualifications. Furthermore, these credits are acknowledged by PDVL’s partners in the UK as valid credits for progression to colleges and universities.
Malaysia & Thailand
In Malaysia & Thailand, PDVL partners with prestigious high schools to offer alternative pathways for students seeking quality UK education and progression to UK universities and colleges without the need for A-levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Additionally, PDVL provides consultancy services and comprehensive solution packages to partner high schools, assisting in the development of new education pathways.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, PDVL collaborates closely with the Ministry of Education to develop double diploma programs at the high school level. These initiatives involve facilitating student exchanges, study abroad programs at the high school level, and the accreditation and recognition of academic credits through institutional accreditation. Participants in these projects have the opportunity to obtain two high school diplomas, enabling them to pursue higher education in various countries.
University Progression
Pathway to Year 1 Undergraduate Study
The PDVL Prince Foundation Programme is designed to lead directly to Year 1 entry at a wide range of respected UK universities. Our dedicated team supports students through every step of the university application and placement process.
University Placement Support
For students recruited via our network of consultants, all university applications are submitted through UCAS, the UK’s centralised admissions system.
- Placement begins: April each year
- One-on-one consultation: Students meet with consultants during the Easter Holiday to discuss course selection, preferred universities, and career goals
- Support includes: UCAS application management, personal statement guidance, course matching, and interview prep (if required)
Articulated University Pathways & Progression Agreements
We have established progression benchmarks and articulation arrangements with a number of leading universities across the UK. These agreements help ensure that students who meet the academic requirements of the Prince Foundation Programme are eligible for direct entry into a wide range of undergraduate programmes.
Our Student Progression Track Record
Queen's University Belfast
Cardiff University
University of York
University of Reading
University of Exeter
University of Liverpool
University of Bath
Lancaster University
Newcastle University
Queen Mary University of London
University of Nottingham
The University of Sheffield
Durham University
University of Leeds
University of Southampton
University of Birmingham
University of Glasgow
University of Auckland
King's College London
and many more!
Meet Our Alumni
''
Before starting university in Australia, I completed The Prince Programme at City College Plymouth, and I’m so glad I did. The college had modern facilities and equipment, and was surrounded by residential areas and parks—making it a peaceful and relaxed place to study.
The courses gave everyone equal learning opportunities, and the instructors were always friendly, encouraging, and supportive. They never discouraged our curiosity—they welcomed it. There were also many group assignments and reports, which I really enjoyed because it moved away from rote memorisation and encouraged collaboration and real thinking.
Chang Hsiang En
''
Before coming to the UK, I was studying at an international school in China. But due to some changes in my family, I finally chose to join PDVL The Prince Foundation programme — although, to be honest, it wasn’t entirely what I had planned at the time. At first, I was quite reluctant and unsure about studying here. But once the course began, everything changed. I was really impressed by how patient and supportive the teachers are. Whenever I didn’t understand something, they would keep explaining it until it made sense. That kind of dedication really helped me settle in.
Jinchuan Gao
''
One word to describe my experience with this program is amazing (that’s the best word I have in my dictionary, if there’s any better words than amazing, then I would use that). Overall, I really really really recommend you to go for it! I promise that you will have such a great experience and memory to keep! Not only do you learn independence, but you are going to make so many great moments! I recommend you to bring a camera if you have or make sure your phone has a big space of memory card, because I want you to record every moment from the first day of going to Plymouth so that you will not regret like me. You’re gonna miss every moment you had.
Kamalia Maisarah Binti Norman
''
“I joined the Prince Programme Foundation at City College Plymouth in February 2024, and my experience at the college has been nothing but amazing. From state-of-the-art facilities to highly knowledgeable teachers, the college offers everything a student could need. Learning new topics has never felt daunting because the teachers excel at breaking down complex subjects, ensuring that every student fully understands the material. Additionally, they keep classes engaging by incorporating interactive activities, which not only makes learning enjoyable but also helps us bond as a class.”
Tai Tung Xin
''
Chang Zi Yen
''
My decision to join the International Foundation Program at City College Plymouth is one that I would never regret in my life as it has opened a door for me to complete my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Southampton and the University of Cambridge. Thanks to PDVL, I was able to choose the right course and institution that matched my needs, and I am now on the path to achieving my dream of being a qualified actuary.
Chen Jian Yu
''
PDVL is one of the best student consultant services I have gone through. Very reliable. Friendly and helpful. Concern about student safety and well-being. Very cooperative while being humble. Most importantly, trustworthy. PDVL ensures students enroll in their desired university without any hiccups.
I highly recommend that for all students who wish to study abroad, please contact PDVL. You will have no problem entering university. Thank you for your time.
Dylan Rodrigues
Top Reason Why Study at PDVL The Prince Foundation
Experience PDVL’s The Prince Foundation Education Programme
UK Top Performing College with Excellent Learning Facilities
All our colleges are trusted, established, award-winning, and internationally recognised – providing outstanding quality of education.
Accelerated Pathway
The Prince Programme takes only a 18-Week Route to help you enter to degree Year 1
Excellent Progression
Our graduates received offers and landed at high-ranking universities in the UK and other countries
Diverse, Affordable Accommodation
Studio, Residence Hall, and even Host accommodation: choose your lifestyle!
Prepares for British University Life, Ensuring Smooth Transition
Among the UK safest cities. All locations are historic, student-friendly cities that combine top universities, vibrant cultural life, affordable living, and easy access to beautiful natural landscapes
Affordable Cost
We have the lowest living expenses and tuition fees compared to other foundation programs and private colleges.
Diverse Mix of Nationalities Amongst International Students.
Our international student community brings together a diverse mix of nationalities, creating a vibrant and multicultural environment
A secure and Caring Environment for Young Learner Abroad
Among the UK safest cities. All locations are historic, student-friendly cities that combine top universities, vibrant cultural life, affordable living, and easy access to beautiful natural landscapes
Pastoral Care by International Office
On-site international and welfare officers proving support in every aspect of student life
PDVL My Prince
Journey
Your window into your child’s study experience in the UK.
PDVL My Prince Journey enables parents to access real-time, accurate updates on their child’s progress throughout The Prince Foundation Programme. The platform provides a comprehensive overview — from course schedules, attendance, grades, and academic reports to IELTS results, UCAS/university application updates, exam timetables, visa information, and event photos.
Designed to foster transparency and communication, both parents and students receive their own login access. With PDVL My Prince Journey, you can stay informed and reassured every step of the way — easing worries while your child studies abroad.
