International Foundation Programme 2010-2011 Final Examination

Monday 23 May 10-12.30 p.m.: Reading/Use of English Examination

Monday 23 May 2-3 p.m.: Aural/Listening Examination

Wednesday 25 May 11-12.30 p.m.: Writing Examination

Overview

The IFC combines the Language Centre's expertise in offering EAP with the excellent facilities of other relevant departments. The course structure enables students to gain experience and get credit for part of their First-Year degree programme while building their language and academic skills to a suitable level for degree completion.

It allows Computer Science, Electronic Engineering and Finance students to take two modules from their First-Year course; successful completion of these modules will lead to exemptions in First Year.

Details of Programme

Aims

To prepare international students for study at NUI Maynooth by enabling them to develop academic skills and a high level of language competency, and by offering First-Year modules from their target subjects.

Objectives

• To introduce students to their subject area through modules
• To foster learner independence
• To improve participants' language skills
• To give participants confidence in using key academic skills
• To evaluate students' suitability to pursue undergraduate studies at NUI Maynooth

See details of courses and course modules here.

Course Delivery

The language component will consist of 20 hours per week in the form of tutorials, laboratory sessions, guided autonomous learning, CALL and occasional seminars. In addition, each participant will undertake 10 hours of individual study.

Modules in the acdemic subjects will be delivered as described in the academic calendar.

Assessment

EAP: Winter and summer exams account for 50% of the marks. Continuous assessment accounts for the other 50%.
Subject module assessment: as per calendar.

Marks and Standards

EAP:
60% = Pass. No individual paper should have a score of less than 50%

Subject modules:
70% = First Class Honours.
60-69% = Second Class Honours (first division)
50-59% = Second Class Honours (second division)
45-49% = Third Class Honours
40-44% = Pass
Compensation of not more than 5% may apply between subject modules.

Specific Admission Requirements

Normally, international students who wish to begin an undergraduate degree are required to have high school results in the relevant subjects and a score of 6.5 in the IELTS ( English) examination or equivalent. Candidates already in Ireland who do not have a formal English qualification may be asked to attend for interview and written assessment.