Benchmarking the INTO International Foundation Programme (IFP)

Known for our rigorous methodology, impartial analysis, and collaborative approach, Ecctis undertakes research, evaluation, and benchmarking studies of academic, vocational, and professional qualifications for a wide range of awarding bodies, higher education institutions, professional bodies, education providers as well as government agencies around the world. This case study demonstrates how we worked with INTO Qualifications to provide an independent, evidence-based evaluation of the INTO International Foundation Programme (IFP), supporting its recognition and understanding across multiple global education systems.

Client: INTO Qualifications

Country: UK, USA

Timescale: 2025

Working with Ecctis on the benchmarking of the INTO International Foundation Programme was a very positive experience and in particular we are grateful for the invaluable feedback, support and actionable insights we received during the benchmarking process.

Their approach was very thorough and collaborative, using a clear and robust methodological approach. As a result of the benchmarking outcome, we have now a clearer understanding of how the INTO International Foundation Programme aligns with UK and US standards, supporting international students’ entry into higher education, mobility and career progression.

We truly appreciate Ecctis’ professionalism, responsiveness and analytical approach demonstrated throughout the benchmarking reports
Lucy Thomas Director

About INTO

INTO Qualifications supports international students from around the world to study in the UK, US and Australia by working with universities to develop specialist programmes designed for international students. INTO Qualifications aims to deliver accessible, high-quality qualifications to support international students’ academic preparation and access into undergraduate programmes. Through the development of strategic partnerships and established quality assurance processes, INTO Qualifications aims to bridge learning gaps and challenges commonly faced by international students, as well as enhance their employability to support international students’ future career. Further information on INTO Qualifications is available on the following page: INTO University Partnerships Launches INTO Qualifications to Elevate Global Higher Education Pathways

Project context and scope

In July 2025, Ecctis completed an independent evaluation and benchmarking exercise of the INTO IFP in the context of the UK and US education systems. The INTO IFP, leading to the INTO L3 Diploma in Foundation Studies, is designed to support international students to develop a standard set of skills, knowledge and understanding and prepare them for undergraduate study. The INTO IFP is designed to suit the needs of international students who are typically non-native speakers of English and unfamiliar with the expectations of the higher education system. The purpose of this benchmarking exercise was to provide an independent evaluation of the level of the INTO IFP in comparison with the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and, in particular, the UK GCE Advanced Level (GCE A Level), an RQF Level 3 qualification, and the US Advanced Placement (AP) standard. Additionally, Ecctis assessed the integrated English for Academic Purposes (EAP) module offered within the IFP against the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Methodology

Ecctis applied its well-established methodology for credential evaluation, which comprised a detailed review of the INTO IFP in terms of:   

  • Entry requirements
  • Duration
  • Content and structure
  • Modes of learning and assessment
  • Modes of learning assessment
  • Learning outcomes and assessment objectives
  • Associated outcomes.

To support the overall comparative analysis, a sample of compulsory and elective subjects of the Programme was comparatively analysed against similarly focused GCE AS/A Level and US AP subjects, focusing on learning outcomes, assessment objectives, subject content and assessment methods. This sample included the following modules: Research Project with Skills Enhancement, EAP, Mathematics and Data Handling (MDH), Mathematics, Economics, Business and Accounting, Chemistry and Sociology and Psychology.

The process employed by Ecctis to compare the EAP module to the CEFR included an independent review of the assessments and test specifications of the EAP module, and a comparative analysis of the EAP module’s assessment specifications against the CEFR.

Quality assurance and control mechanisms and processes were also considered for the purposes of this study.

Project outcomes

Through this independent evaluation and benchmarking, Ecctis found that the INTO IFP assesses knowledge and skills indicative of:

  • RQF Level 3, using a range of learning outcomes and assessment types similarly found at GCE AS and A Level in the context of the UK education system
  • The US AP standard, using a range of learning outcomes and assessment types similarly found in the AP courses.
     

The review of the INTO EAP module in the context of CEFR found that across the reading and listening paper CEFR B2 level is adequately tested, and higher scoring students may be reflecting CEFR C1 level through their ability to understand implied and stated opinions, with the speaking and writing assessment tasks having the scope to test CEFR B2 level.

The findings from this study provide INTO Qualifications with robust, independent evidence to support discussions with universities, employers, and other key stakeholders, demonstrating the standing of the INTO IFP in relation to established national pre-university qualifications and strengthening its position within the global education landscape.