Course overview and content
Pre-sessional English courses develop the academic English and study skills you need to succeed at university.
Before your course begins
Students on the 40, 30 and 20-week courses usually take a placement test to assess their English level.
Students on the 10, 12 and 6-week courses complete a diagnostic writing test.
What you will study
The course is intensive and requires approximately 35 hours of study each week, including:
- up to 18 hours of lessons and tutorials
- around 20 hours of guided self-study.
Lessons normally take place on weekdays between 9am and 6pm UK time.
During your course
You will benefit from:
- small class sizes
- regular tutorials
- structured self-study tasks
- recorded lectures for listening practice
- textbooks and learning materials
- experienced teachers.
Students also have access to:
- University libraries
- the Language Lounge
- Microsoft Teams and Canvas
- University accommodation
- social activities.
Technology requirements
Students must have a laptop with audio and video capability.
You will also need:
- headphones or a headset
- a webcam (for online study)
- a stable internet connection (for online study).
Mobile phones or tablets cannot be used for studying on the course.
Course aims
The course aims to help you:
- meet the English language requirements for your degree
- develop academic communication skills
- understand UK academic expectations
- become an independent learner
- become familiar with university systems and regulations.