Foundation Program in Business with Academic English

Overview

The Foundation Program in Business with Academic English is a one-academic-year program designed for future international business students. It strengthens English language skills and academic qualifications, preparing students to enroll in an undergraduate business program at an international business school where all classes are taught in English.

Key Information

Duration

• 6 or 9 months

Languages

• English

Location

• Barcelona
• Malta
• Online

Annual Intakes

• October
• January

Format

• Face-to-face
• Online

Tuition Fee

• From 7400 €

Program Structure

The program has an innovative modular structure, tailored to individual needs. It consists of three terms of 20 credits (ECTS) each.

Term 1

• Reading, Writing and Grammar (6 ECTS)
• English for Academic Business Studies (8 ECTS)
• Business English (6 ECTS)
• Total: 20 ECTS

Term 2

• Business Communication Skills (10 ECTS)
• Introduction to Economics (10 ECTS)
• Total: 20 ECTS

Term 3

• Introduction to Business (8 ECTS)
• Using IT for Business Studies (6 ECTS)
• Business and Society (6 ECTS)
• Total: 20 ECTS

Qualification

• Higher Education Program: Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Foundation Program in Business with Academic English
• Accreditation Status: An officially recognized qualification awarded by GBSB Global Business School, licensed as a Higher Education Institution by the Malta Further & Higher Education Authority and accredited by the Government of Catalonia’s Department of Education
• MQF/EQF Level: MFHEA deems this qualification to be at Level 4 of the Malta Qualifications Framework and the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning
• Number of ECTS Credits: 60 ECTS

Admissions Information

To be eligible for admission, students must meet one of the following requirements:

• Secondary school leaving certificate or diploma
• BTEC: MPP
• GCSE/IGSCE “O” Levels: three subject exams with grades of A, B, C or D; A Levels: 1 or 2 subject exams with grades of A, B, C or D
• IB first year or IB Certificate
• A combination of A-Level, BTEC, and other accepted qualifications that total 48 UCAS Tariff points (UK)

Students must also meet English proficiency requirements:

• TOEFL – Minimum score: 97 (computer-based), 32 (internet-based), or 450 (paper-based)
• IELTS – Minimum score: 4.5
• Cambridge ESOL, Certificate in Advanced English (PET) – Minimum score: C
• English as the language of instruction during previous studies in the formal educational system
• Internal English level testing at GBSB Global

Tuition Fees

• Foundation Program (60 ECTS): € 12 900 (on-campus), € 7 400 (online)
• Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Business Studies / in Business English (30 ECTS): € 6 450 (on-campus), € 4 200 (online)

Program Highlights

• Accreditation & Certification: GBSB Global Business School is officially accredited, guaranteeing high educational standards
• Advanced Academic English Training: Improve writing, reading, and oral communication skills for academic success
• Pathway to Bachelor’s Programs: Meet university entry requirements for undergraduate study
• Supportive & Personalized Learning Environment: Benefit from small class sizes and personalized academic support
• International & Multicultural Experience: Study with peers from diverse backgrounds and cultures

Resources

• Program Brochure: Available for download
• Learning Outcomes: Available for download
• Program Outline: Available for download
• Academic Calendar: Available for viewing

Discover GBSB Global Business School

At GBSB Global Business School, we’re here to help you explore big ideas, gain real-world skills, and grow into a confident, forward-thinking leader. With campuses in the exciting cities of Barcelona, Madrid, and Malta—and a fully online option—you can join us from almost anywhere. Our students represent over 100 nationalities, creating a welcoming, international community.

Programs Designed for the Real World

We offer flexible programs at different levels, including Bachelor's degrees, Master’s, and MBAs. These are designed not just to help you graduate, but to prepare you for success in real jobs. You’ll work on practical projects, learn directly from experienced professionals, and use the tools that today’s top companies rely on.

More Than Just Classes

At GBSB Global, learning goes beyond the classroom. You’ll attend workshops, meet business leaders, and be part of a strong global network of students and alumni. We’re proud to be ranked and recognized by respected organizations like QS and Forbes for our innovation, entrepreneurship, and commitment to sustainability.

Quick Facts

- 🌍 Students from 100+ countries

- ⭐ 5 Stars in Teaching, Employability, and Online Learning (QS Stars)

- 📊 Ranked Top 200 Global MBA Programs (QS Rankings)

- 💼 90% of graduates employed within one year

- 🗣️ All programs taught in English

Support for Future Entrepreneurs

Thinking of launching your own business or creating positive change? Our G-Accelerator program gives you the tools, mentorship, and resources to turn your ideas into action.

Your Global Future Starts Here

Whether you want to study in person or online, GBSB Global offers you a modern, international education that helps you build a successful and meaningful career.

Ready to take the first step?

Global Recognition & Rankings

• QS Stars Rating: 5 Stars for Teaching, Employability, Online Learning, and Inclusiveness
• CEO Magazine Global MBA Rankings 2025: Tier One
• Forbes España 2024: #1 in Executive and Top Management Programs
• El Mundo & Financial Magazine 2024: Programs listed among the Top 5 in Spain
• Microsoft Showcase School: First business school recognized for its digital learning environment

Accreditations & Memberships

• ACBSP: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (USA)
• ASIC: Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities (UK)
• MFHEA: Malta Further & Higher Education Authority
• Generalitat de Catalunya: Department of Education (Spain)
• Comunidad de Madrid: Department of Education, Science, and Universities (Spain)
• AACSB: Member of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
• BGA: Member of the Business Graduates Association