Preparatory

Caribbean Academic Foundation Year (CAFY)



SSS-CAFY is a college preparatory program, which aims to assist post-secondary students pursuing tertiary education by strategically laying strong foundations.
Caribbean Academic Foundation Year (CAFY)
The SSS–Caribbean Academic Foundation Year (CAFY) is a college preparatory program designed to support post-secondary students who are pursuing tertiary education. The program helps students build a strong academic foundation through clearly defined goals and carefully developed individualized learning plans tailored to meet the needs of each student.

The aim of the program is to prepare students for academic success at the university level while also supporting their future career goals.

Students enrolled in the CAFY program benefit from a supportive learning environment that includes:

- Administrative, academic, and psychological support
- Guidance and mentoring throughout the program
- Access to USM’s digital library and academic resources


For students participating from Saba and St. Eustatius, coordinators on their respective islands oversee the program and work closely with the Head Coordinator at USM to ensure students receive the necessary support and guidance.
Students will have access to USM’s digital library and resources.

How to Apply

Download the application form below and submit the completed form via email.

Download application form here:



Submit completed form to admission@usm.sx, and CC: marva.sam-arrindell@usm.sx

Duration: 10 months (two semesters)
Eligibility: Successful completion of secondary
education and possess a HAVO, CXC, CSEC diploma
Qualification: 16 to 23 yrs. and recently graduated from secondary school for up to 2 years
Language of Instruction: English
Curriculum: core courses and electives
Credit Hours: 31/33
Certification: SSS-CAFY Certificate and official transcript

Testimonials:
USM student testimonial




Associated files



This program's brochure might refer to the USM courses.

Admission Procedure

Admission to the CAFY program includes the following steps:

1. Fill in the application form and submit required documents
2. Have a one-on-one interview with the Admissions Officer
3. Take placement test
4. Receive an individualized study or learning plan
5. Register for courses
6. Participate in student orientation activity



Admission Requirements

Applicants must have successfully completed secondary education and possess one of the following diplomas:

- HAVO Diploma
- CXC Diploma
- CSEC Diploma
- GED

Applicants who are completing their CXC or CSEC examinations in the current academic year are also encouraged to apply with their high school transcripts.

Age Requirement:
Applicants must be between 16 and 23 years old and have graduated from secondary school within the past two years.

Language of Instruction
All courses in the CAFY program are taught in English, therefore students must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Apply →

Admission deadlines:
 July 16
For CAFY 2026: August 2026 - May 2027 semsester.

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University of the Virgin Islands Business and Technology Education Council Johnson and Wales University American University of the Caribbean The Hague University of Applied Sciences University of Amsterdam European Qualifications Framework Florida Mechanical Agricultural University General Educational Development Test Monroe College Mount Saint Vincent University Leiden University NIPA University of the West Indies University of Curaçao