Pre-Sessional for Postgraduate Studies:
IMPROVING ACADEMIC ENGLISH FOR MASTER'S PROGRAMMES
This short, three-month Pre-Sessional programme is designed for international students who have completed their first degree and want to prepare for studying at a master's level by improving their Academic English and study skills. The course runs year-round and helps students to develop their language skills and achieve the standard needed to meet university language entry requirements.
COURSE CONTENT
The main focus of the SCL International College Pre-Sessional for Postgraduate Studies programme is on helping students to prepare for the style of teaching and learning required at postgraduate level, developing research skills, understanding how to avoid plagiarism, and how to make effective academic presentations. You will be taught in small classes allowing our tutors to give each student individual support and attention.
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.
We will help you develop the Academic English skills required to meet university entry requirements. These 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 fluent manner.
Other topics include:
- creating academic reports;
- writing well-structured essays;
- using quantitative and qualitative research skills;
- constructing and delivering academic presentations;
- practicing interview and negotiation skills.
Admission Requirements
Students who enrol on our Pre-Sessional Postgrad programme are expected to have completed an undergraduate degree at a university either in your home country or abroad.
In addition to providing proof of a Bachelor's degree or higher education diploma, your English language level needs to be equivalent to one of the following:
- 5.5 in IELTS
- 46 on TOEFL
- 162 on Cambridge English
- B2 CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference)
Have a question about your academic qualifications, fees or visa requirements? We'd be happy to help you!
All the help you need to succeed
Personalised Support
At SCL International College, we are committed to ensuring you gain the necessary English language qualifications and study skills to advance to a British or international university. Your academic tutor will take a personal interest in your progress and help you develop your study plan accordingly.
Entry requirements will vary from country to country, so it's best to contact us to discuss your individual education background and goals.

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 university

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!
On-Site Accommodation in London
Get ready to call London home!
At SCL you’ll find a modern, safe and welcoming atmosphere where students live, study, socialise and enjoy the very best of London.
During your programme, you will live on site and when you finish, you can stay as long as you like! Our campuses are an easy 15-30 minute journey to many universities across the city.
Students progressing on to university in London can easily extend their accommodation at The Stay Club.
No moving!
No stress!
No hassle!

Wondering which course is right for you?