Pre-Sessional English:
IMPROVING SKILLS IN READING, WRITING, SPEAKING AND LISTENING
Our International Foundation Programmes require a minimum English language entry level to enrol, and they include modules to improve your English language and study skills in preparation for university. However, for students who do not quite meet our English language requirements, and who want to increase their confidence when studying in the UK before the start of their main programme, we offer a pre-sessional course.
Our pre-sessional programme is tailored to the individual needs of each applicant. Students will have an interview with the academic team who will approve their admission and recommend the appropriate course duration.
COURSE CONTENT
The main focus of the SCL International College pre-sessional programme is on developing language skills in the four disciplines of reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students study for 23 hours per week and are also expected to complete homework assignments each day. Teaching takes place in small groups and each student is assigned a personal tutor who they will meet with at least once per week to discuss their progress.
The course is a great way to acclimatise to living and studying in the UK, learning about British culture, places to go and see in London, how to make the best use of public transport and so on. It’s also a great way to make friends with fellow students before the main course begins.
Students will be taught different language techniques which include:
- improving grammatical skills
- increasing the range of general and specialised vocabulary
- enhancing sentence and paragraph structure
- improving reading skills and identifying key information and arguments
- interpreting tables and graphs
- tackling multiple choice questions
- speaking in a coherent and logical manner
The course also introduces students to the study skills needed when starting your main programme with us. They include:
- note taking in lectures and classes
- writing summaries
- writing extended pieces of work
- making presentations
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS & Start Dates
Our structured pre-sessional programme helps you build your skills step by step, with a clear path based on your current English level.
Once you successfully complete your pre-sessional course, you can automatically progress to the SCL Foundation Programme.
By following the schedule below, you’ll complete your course by early September, giving you time to go home or prepare before your Foundation Programme starts in October.
| Your Current Level | CEFR | Course Length | Target Exit Level | Start Date (2025) | Start Date (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | A1 | 36+ weeks | B1 / IELTS 4.5 | 6 October 2025 | 5 October 2026 |
| Elementary | A2 | 24 weeks | B1 / IELTS 4.5 | 19 February 2025 | 17 February 2026 |
| Pre-Intermediate | A2+ | 16 weeks | B1 / IELTS 4.5 | 23 April 2025 | 21 April 2026 |
| Low Intermediate | Low B1 | 8 weeks | B1 / IELTS 4.5 | 18 June 2025 | 16 June 2026 |
Exam Preparation for NCC or Undergraduate Entry
If you require a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for the NCC Foundation or are aiming to enter an undergraduate degree, we also offer flexible IELTS and Cambridge preparation courses designed around your personal goals and timeline.
- Start whenever you're ready – we offer rolling enrolment and flexible start dates.
- Follow a personalised study plan based on your level.
- Improve your academic English and test techniques.
- Target the score you need.
DISCOVER THE SCL EXPERIENCE
SCL International College offers an all-inclusive campus experience within a big city.
Everything you need is here in one place – from the classrooms to the café and everything in between!
Ready to take the next step?
The benefits of SCL
One-to-one support
Our tutors are highly qualified and have experience teaching international students, so they understand the kind of personal support you may need.
University application assistance
We support each individual student through the process of applying to your chosen universities. Our partner universities guarantee you a place on passing your course.
Preparation for British academic life
A vital part of our programme involves training students to adapt their skills and knowledge to the specific context and environment they will encounter when they are enrolled in undergraduate courses.
State-of-the-art facilities
SCL’s modern classrooms have the latest hardware and software and our libraries offer a flexible space for you to work alone or in groups. Students also have 24/7 access to online resources, study tools and materials.
An international environment
Our team of academic professionals comes from all over the world and will help you develop the social and learning skills required for studying at a UK higher education institution.
Plus, when you stay with us you’ll enjoy a ready-made community of international students from over 65 nationalities!
On-site accommodation
Whether you're attending this course on your own or with friends, we'll always have space for you. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom, kitchenette and optional weekly cleaning and linen service.
We also have an in-house events team who hosts regular activities free of charge.
Small class size
At SCL International College, you'll enjoy our smaller classes for individualised learning, with 5 students average (maximum 12) per class.
Great location in London
We're located in the student capital of the world – London! You'll have easy access to the entire city, major airports and railway stations. Stay with us and you’ll even get discounts to local restaurants, cafés and shops!
A smooth transition to a UK uni
Wondering which course is right for you?