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Pre-sessional English is an intensive English language course for students who need to improve their English language and study skills prior to enrolling on their chosen degree programme at UWS. It is designed to help you achieve the University's English language entry requirement for degree level study (IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5).
Pre-sessional courses are held during the summer, and at various times during the academic year. Courses last for five weeks or ten weeks, depending on your existing level of English. Each course comprises 21 hours of instruction and four hours of directed independent study per week.
Courses are delivered by qualified and experienced lecturers from our School of Education. The focus of courses is to build on your existing English language skills to prepare you for all aspects of academic study, including:
Pre-sessional English courses will also develop your cultural awareness and introduce you to living in the UK.
Our taught classes are interactive and communicative to build your confidence when using English. Classes are small, usually with no more than 20 students per group. Independent learning is an essential part of university study, and the hours of directed study will help you develop this skill. You will also attend focused one-to-one tutorials to discuss your progress and any additional support you may need.
During the course, you will develop a portfolio of work, including assignments and project work, to evidence your progression. You will also be assessed through regular English language tests in all language skills. To pass the course, and to proceed to your main degree programme, you must achieve a level comparable to IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any skill.
The UWS Languages Centre is an open access learning centre equipped with individual student PCs and group work areas; it is available for all English language students. You can also use all the study facilities of the main University Library.
During the course, there will be opportunities to participate in a vibrant social programme with events both on and off campus and excursions to explore Scotland. This will enable you to meet new people, broaden your horizons and practise English outside the university campus environment.
Find out more about Sports & Social ActiviesInternational English Language Testing System (IELTS): 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at level 5.0.
For full list of Tuition Fees for all of our Bachelor's, Master's, Research degrees as well as 10- and 5-week Pre-sessional English Language courses visit our dedicated webpage (Undergraduate - Bachelor's, Postgraduate - Master's):
The course fee does not include course materials, which you will need to purchase on arrival. The cost is approximately £ 45. All other materials will be supplied as part of the course.
Social activities are normally free of charge. However sometimes there may be a small fee.
If you require a visa to study in the UK, please visit our Visas, Immigration & ATAS section.
For specific queries related to your application for this course, please contact us at: