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Pre-Sessional English

How it works

If you have not achieved the required English language scores for your chosen academic programme, you can enrol onto a Pre-Sessional English course. You will improve your level of English and learn how to do the following:

  • Deliver successful academic presentations
  • Write appropriately structured, coherent and concise essays
  • Participate actively in academic contexts
  • Take effective notes when reading and listening
  • Avoid plagiarism while using suitable academic sources in your work.

English language training is delivered by Birmingham City University (BCU) and is available either online or face-to-face.

Courses available

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For upcoming course dates, check the BCU website.

On-campus classes

For on-campus delivery, courses take place on BCU’s City Centre Campus. You will have small group classes and one-to-one tutorials with your teacher between 08:00 and 15:30, Monday to Friday. Secure English Language Test (SELT) is required.

Online classes

Online classes take place Monday to Friday through Microsoft Teams, 08:00-12:00 UK time. Classes feature the following:

  • Regular one-to-one tutorials with personal tutor
  • Video, audio and text-based tasks
  • Regular conversation practice to develop your speaking ability
  • 24/7 access to self-study and group work activities.

You will need access to a PC or laptop and a good-quality internet connection.

Joint or separate CAS

If you qualify for the 10- or 6-week Pre-Sessional English course and have met all other conditions on your offer, BCUIC will usually be able to issue you with a joint CAS that covers both your Pre-Sessional and your academic course.

If you qualify for the 16-week Pre-Sessional English course, you will be issued with a separate CAS for your Pre-Sessional course, and you will need to apply for a new visa for your academic course. (Please note: BCU can assist you through this process.)

For more information and guidance, please contact us.

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