For some international students, a Pre-Sessional programme at University of Greenwich is suggested. Learn how this preparation course assists your study.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for direct entry onto your chosen degree, you may be able to join one of our Pre-sessional English (PSE) programmes.
These intensive summer courses are delivered in person at our Greenwich campus and are designed to prepare you linguistically, academically, and culturally for study at a UK university.
The programme focuses on academic English, study skills, and transition into UK higher education.
Course content
The Pre-sessional English programme supports students in developing academic English skills alongside an understanding of university study and life in the UK.
Classes are organised into four main areas:
Language Skills
- Academic reading and writing
- Listening and speaking for academic contexts
- Grammar and vocabulary development
Reading, Writing and Study Skills
- Academic argumentation
- Critical reading
- Referencing and citation
Listening, Speaking and Study Skills
- Seminar participation
- Academic presentations
- Note-taking and lecture skills
British Cultural Studies
- UK academic culture and expectations
- Living and studying in the UK
- Intercultural communication
Students receive regular tutorials to support their individual learning needs and future degree progression.
Learning experience
The programme is designed to support students’ transition into UK higher education.
Alongside developing academic English, students:
- become familiar with UK academic expectations
- learn about university systems and support services
- develop independent study strategies
- gain confidence communicating in English in academic and social settings
Studying in an English-speaking environment helps students become familiar with a range of accents and communication styles they will encounter during their degree.
Course dates and entry requirements
Students must present a valid IELTS score before joining the course.
Undergraduate entry
| Course Length | IELTS Overall | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 weeks | 4.5 | 18 May 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 9 weeks | 5.0 | 15 June 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 5 weeks | 5.5 | 13 July 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 2 weeks | 6.0 | 3 August 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
Postgraduate entry
| Course Length | IELTS Overall | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 weeks | 5.0 | 18 May 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 9 weeks | 5.5 | 15 June 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 5 weeks | 6.0 | 13 July 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
| 2 weeks | 6.5 | 3 August 2026 | 14 August 2026 |
* Minimum 4.0 required in each IELTS skill.
Minimum age
Students must be 18 years or older.
Class size
Maximum class size: 16 students
Teaching hours
- 16 hours of classroom teaching per week (Monday–Thursday)
- Fridays: guided independent study, tutorials, and scheduled cultural visits (alternating weekly)
Fridays alternate between:
Week A
- Library-based research skills
- Guided independent learning
- Tutorials and feedback sessions
Week B
- Optional educational visits and cultural activities linked to course learning
This structure supports the development of independent learning skills and introduces students to academic and cultural life in the UK.
Sample timetable
The timetable below is an example. Exact lesson topics and timings may vary depending on course length and student needs.
16 hours of teaching per week (Monday–Thursday)
Additional guided learning and activities on Fridays
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AM 10:00 – 12:00* | Academic Induction and campus tour | Introduction to academic reading | Referencing and citations | Grammar for academic writing | Optional educational visit (e.g. Painted Hall) |
PM 1:00 – 3:00 | Expectations at university | Seminars and tutorials: participation skills | Academic presentations: structure and delivery | Group tutorial: wellbeing and settling in | Independent study |
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AM 10:00 – 12:00 | Organising your argument with sources | Identifying arguments in texts | Academic Introductions | Vocabulary for Academic writing. | Independent study (guided activities) |
PM 1:00 – 3:00 | Listening for main ideas | Academic presentations: speaking skills | Introduction to British Culture | 1:1 Tutorials: assessment focus | Independent study |
Learning outcomes
By the end of the Pre-sessional English programme, students will be able to:
- read and critically evaluate academic texts relevant to their discipline
- produce structured academic writing using appropriate sources, referencing, and academic conventions
- understand and respond to spoken academic English in lectures, seminars, and discussions
- participate effectively in seminars, tutorials, and academic presentations
- apply independent study strategies appropriate for UK higher education
- demonstrate awareness of UK academic culture, expectations, and academic integrity practices
Achievement of these outcomes is assessed through coursework and formal assessments completed during the programme.
Assessments
Assessments are designed to prepare students for the types of academic tasks they will complete during their degree.
Students will complete:
- a reading portfolio
- an academic presentation
- an assessed seminar discussion
- a listening assessment
- an extended academic essay
Students complete a range of formative coursework and practice tasks throughout the programme.
Regular tutor feedback and tutorials support students in:
- monitoring their progress
- developing academic skills
- preparing for summative assessments
Successful completion of the programme allows progression to the student’s degree, subject to meeting the required assessment standards.
The Pre-sessional English programme prepares students for the linguistic and academic demands of their degree and does not replace academic study.
Educational visits
Educational visits take place throughout the programme and are linked to course learning outcomes.
Destinations may include:
- The Painted Hall
- National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House
- Museum of London Docklands
- Tate Modern and Southbank
- The British Museum
Entry to these attractions is free. Transport costs may apply for locations outside Greenwich. Students should check Transport for London for current fares.
Participation in visits is optional.
Attendance and support
Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and tutorials.
Academic and pastoral support is available throughout the programme, including:
- regular tutorials
- progress monitoring
- guidance on transitioning to degree study in the UK
Course fee
| Course Length | Fee |
|---|---|
| 13 Weeks | £7,540 |
| 9 Weeks | £5,220 |
| 5 Weeks | £2,900 |
| 2 Weeks | £1,290 |
Accredited by the British Council
Online Pre-Sessional English Course
For students who are unable to travel to Greenwich for their pre-sessional English classes, we can also support them with an online option. Our online pre-sessional English course is run by our partner Oxford International. Find out more about their English classes (ELLT) here: