Pre-sessional English Courses Offered by UK Universities

English might have been the language of instruction for many of the students applying for studies abroad. Even then, India is not an English-speaking nation and hence, students from India will have to prove their English proficiency through tests light IELTS and TOEFL. At times, it so happens that students will not be able to match the IELTS score requirement. Read further to understand one of the options offered by the UK universities that helps students get admitted to their preferred programmes.

What are pre-sessional English courses?

Pre-sessional English courses are short-term English courses which may be taken by students who wish to improve their English language skills in order to be better prepared for the program they have chosen to study. If the courses are taught in English, you’ll need to meet a particular level of proficiency. You’ll know the struggles of not being able to follow your lecturers. It can result in unwanted stress in a foreign land. Taking up a pre-sessional English course will help you acquire the requisite level of English. That’s one hurdle out o the way of achieving an international degree.

When should you opt for pre-sessional English courses?

You can take up a pre-sessional English course if you do not meet the English Language entry requirements of your course. However, it does not mean that you do not have to take an English language test. Your entry into a pre-sessional English course will be based on your IELTS score. More about that later.

What are the benefits of doing a pre-sessional English course?

Did you think that these English courses are only about meeting the language requirements for your degree program? Well, read further and you’ll agree that there is more to it.

A pre-sessional English course will:

1. Improve your confidence in conversing in the language
2. Clearing a pre-sessional course will guarantee your admission to the degree program, provided you meet all other requirements too.
3. Improve your degree outcome as the course will give you an idea of the British educational style
4. Give you time to know about the university and its resources, and how to plan your studies better
5. It has been observed that the pass rate is high for students who joined the degree program after a pre-sessional English course
6. Learn the academic writing style
7. Help you get better at presentations and discussions
8. And make friends!

Which are some of the institutions in the UK that offer pre-sessional English courses?

For the year 2022, the majority of the institutions are conducting pre-sessional English courses online.

What happens after your pre-sessional English courses?

There are only 2 outcomes after your studies under the pre-sessional English course. Either you clear the course, or you don’t. Students who clear the course can start their degree. Some institutions like the University of Bedfordshire offers short remedial programmes where they focus on skills that students need to improve.

To conclude, pre-sessional English courses are highly beneficial and will ensure you have a smooth path in studying for your preferred course, at least regarding the language aspects. That’s one less thing to worry about and maybe one of the crucial aspects too. Without access to the language skills, it would be a struggle to study your course. When the university offers you a structured path to attain the required language skills, why not opt for it? Good luck with your study in the UK. If you need some professional guidance to help you in your study abroad journey, just fill out the form on this page, and our experts will give you a call to take it forward.