(Full time) 2023 start
Pre-sessional Academic English for Undergraduate Studies (two semesters)
Coronavirus information for applicants and offer holders
We hope that by the time you’re ready to start your studies with us the situation with COVID-19 will have eased. However, please be aware, we will continue to review our courses and other elements of the student experience in response to COVID-19 and we may need to adapt our provision to ensure students remain safe. For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, regularly visit our website, which we will continue to update as the situation changes www.leeds.ac.uk/covid19faqs
Overview
If English isn’t your first language, this course will help you improve your academic English level to the standard needed to study one of the following undergraduate programmes, while preparing you for study in the UK:
An undergraduate degree
The International Foundation Year
Modules on the Exchange and Study Abroad programme
The Leeds International Summer School
You’ll learn using practical techniques which you can apply to your undergraduate studies. You’ll use learning resources including academic articles, talks and lectures to enhance your development.
Special features
We’ll help you transition successfully from high school to studying at a UK university, as well as improving your academic English.
To support your learning, you’ll have access to our Language Zone – a study and resource centre for independent language learning equipped with a computer cluster for personal study, books and magazines, audio and video resources. You’ll also be able to take part in workshops, language groups and language advice drop-ins to get the most out of your studies.
Course content
You’ll focus on improving your academic English skills in the following areas:
English language skillsUsing English for everyday communication
Vocabulary development and grammar accuracy
Pronunciation and spelling
Structuring ideas for essays and assignments
Essay writing style
Using academic language in writing
Using academic references in your work
Reading academic resources
Using these skills to enhance your speaking and writing
Getting the most out of lectures and seminars
Practise listening to talks, lectures and other authentic materials in English
Participating in seminars and discussions
Practising your speaking skills with presentations
You’ll work on assignments which give you the opportunity to practise all the academic and communication skills you learn
For example, you might be asked to conduct surveys or specific internet research which are assessed through presentations, class discussions or writing activities
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
You’ll learn how to use academic language appropriate for your academic programme to express your thoughts and ideas effectively.
To prepare you for study at a UK university, you’ll be taught in classes, lectures and group seminars. You’ll work individually and with others. Independent study is an important element of this course, allowing you to practise your skills, deepen your knowledge and prepare for your programme. Throughout the course, you’ll be encouraged to think critically.
You’ll also have dedicated time with your tutor to address questions you may have about your language and learning.
In normal circumstances, teaching takes place on the University of Leeds campus. You’ll study full-time, with classes scheduled Monday to Friday between 9am to 5pm.
Your pre-sessional course will include teaching and assessment time, as well as dates when the University will be closed, such as for Christmas, Easter and other public holidays.
Teaching staff at the Language Centre contribute to academic research in language teaching. This research informs our course content, which means you’ll receive high quality teaching designed to help you get the most out of your studies.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
Throughout the course you’ll work on assignments linked to your class work. This will allow you to monitor your progress and receive feedback from your tutor. In each semester, you’ll take assessments to test your academic writing, reading, listening and speaking skills.
Applying, fees and funding
Entry requirements
For academic programmes other than the International Foundation Year:
Entry requirements for this course depend on your current English language level and the language requirement for your academic course.
If your academic course requires an overall IELTS score of 6.0
To apply for this pre-sessional course you'll need:
A minimum overall IELTS score of 5.0
No components below 4.5
or
A minimum overall IELTS score of 5.5
Two or more components below 5.5 allowed
No components below 5.0
If your academic course requires an overall IELTS score of 6.5
To apply for this pre-sessional course you'll need:
A minimum overall IELTS score of 5.5
Two or more components below 5.5 allowed
No components below 5.0
If your academic course requires an overall IELTS score of 7.0
To apply for this pre-sessional course you'll need:
A minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0
Two components below 6.0 allowed
No components below 5.5
For the International Foundation Year:
If your International Foundation Year requires an overall IELTS score of 5.5
To apply for this pre-sessional course you'll need:
A minimum overall IELTS score of 4.5
No components below 4.5
If your International Foundation Year requires an overall IELTS score of 6.0
To apply for this pre-sessional course you'll need:
A minimum overall IELTS score of 5.0
No components below 5.0
For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
The minimum age to study on this course is 18. If you want to take the course to prepare for the International Foundation Year, and will be under 18 when the course starts, exceptions can be made on an individual basis. If you have any questions, email us at langc@leeds.ac.uk.
How to apply
Deadline to apply: to be confirmed
Deadline to accept your offer: to be confirmed
This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023
Fees
- UK: £12,054 (total)
- International: £12,054 (total)
Read more about how to pay.
Additional cost information
Access to all learning materials and software needed for the course is included in the tuition fee.
When teaching takes place on campus, the Language Centre provides a weekly programme of optional social activities during this course. Some of these are free, and some have a cost, normally no more than £30.
Accommodation is not included in the tuition fee.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs.