The University Foundation Programmes are considered by some as an alternative to Advanced Level. Even though the Foundation Programmes may have a benefit to certain students, leaving school at the age of 16 can lead to serious implications. Taking this matter into consideration, Gateway Colleges have decided to introduce the University Foundation programmes as additional options within the school.

This opens the possibility of students remaining in school where they can still take part in sports and co-curricular activities. The parents have the assurance of their children growing up in a disciplined environment during this important stage of life where they will inherit true Sri Lankan values.

The International Foundation Programme at Gateway is available for students who wish to join after Sri Lankan or London/Cambridge OL/IGCSE. The Foundation Programme which is of a year's duration will be of benefit to students who wish to continue their studies to a Bachelor's degree level and beyond, but who need extra work in English or Maths before considering such option. Apart from the core which focuses on these two subjects and study skills, students also study additional computing and business modules. After completing the Foundation Programme, they can go on to take the Diploma, which is considered to be the first year of the Degree at the Gateway Graduate School.

Through the Gateway Graduate School, students have the option of obtaining internationally recognised degrees right here in Sri Lanka. The courses are offered on both part-time and full-time basis and students have the option of completing the full programme in Sri Lanka or transferring to overseas universities in Britain, USA or Australia at the end of every academic year.

Gateway Graduate School, in partnership with NCC Education UK, offers a choice of two career pathways to complete Degrees in Business Computing and Information Systems or Business Administration, here in Sri Lanka. In both Degrees, students are able to receive industrial recognized qualifications - Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas, from NCC Education UK on successful completion of the first and the second years. The BSc. top-up is delivered by NCC Education and is validated and awarded by the University of Wales.