Mohammed Abbas Awan, 24, who studies dentistry at Sheffield University, was arrested earlier this month.
Mr Awan, from Huddersfield, is accused of conducting research into steel ball bearings, slingshots and cold steel knives as part of what the prosecution alleges was early attack planning.
He was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 30 June.
Mr Awan, who appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court, is also alleged to have been in possession of a recording of an al-Qaeda camp showing weapons training.
He was arrested along with his brother Umar Awan, who was released without charge.
A student has appeared in court charged with preparing terrorist acts and possessing terrorist documents.