Learning English at a British University

Learning English at a British University is a special experience. The courses are a very high standard. You will meet with local students and mix with other students from many different parts of the world. You will discover English culture and life style in an interesting environment.

Each year thousands of students choose to study English in British Universities. They know that a university can provide them with the direct experience of student life. They also know that the quality of the courses that they choose will be very good. Universities are most often situated in large cities or smaller towns that have an interesting history. This gives the students the opportunity to learn about British culture and society in a direct way. There are lots of universities to choose from, so you need to consider certain questions before you apply to a course.

Which Course?

If you wish to improve your skills in using English to help your career or gain a qualification, you will be looking for a General English or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) course. Many universities offer EFL or ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses which can last for a few weeks or longer if you wish. They will often offer you a choice in how long you can study. If you are intending to study for a degree in a British University either as an undergraduate (B.A. or B.Sc.), it is wise to apply for a pre-university or pre-sessional course. These courses are very popular and are usually offered between June-September each year and they can also last for different lengths of time depending on your needs. Some Universities refer to this type of course as English for Academic Purposes and they offer a good introduction to University life.

Have you thought of studying for your first degree in English? This is becoming very popular for many students. You can find out which British Universities welcome non-native speakers onto their degree courses by obtaining information on these Universities from your nearest British Council Office. You will need to take an English Language test before applying, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the British Council can advise you about this. Some Universities welcome students who wish to study any subject and some offer full-time degree courses specially designed for non-native speakers. There are a few places, such as Stirling University, which actually offer a three-year degree in English as Business and Management or whatever. You may wish to study English before beginning University studies, to study English as part of a full-time degree, and even want to stay on for further study for a Masters degree, You can do this all at the same University if you prefer, but you will need to make sure that the University you want to go to will provide you with the courses you need. Many students come to British Universities to obtain a qualification in English Language Teaching (ELT). Most will study for a Masters degree, but a small number of Universities do fofer an undergraduate degree or other qualifications in ELT.

Which University?

This is a big question! It depends on where you would like to be and your own personal interests. Do you prefer living in a large city? Remember London is not the only interesting city in Britain! If you prefer a large city which is very lively and where lots of people work in different jobs and professions, you might choose to study in places like Birmingham, Nottingham, Liverpool, Leeds or Edinburgh for example. Many British Universities are in smaller cities or towns with a very interesting history, such as Cambridge, Oxford, York, or Bath for example. You might prefer to be in a town that is very close to the wonderful countryside and lots of fresh air. Examples would include Lancaster near the beautiful English Lake District, Brighton near both the sea and the Sussex Downs, or Stirling on the edge of the magnificent Scottish Highlands.

Choosing the city or town is important especially if you want to experience different aspects of culture, history or the environment. If you plan to study for a year or more, your choice of place is very important because it will be your 'home from home.' Also make sure that the particular University provides the course or courses you want. Obtain as much information as you can, either directly from the particular University itself (write to the Admissions Office) or through the British Council Office nearest to you.

Why a University Course?

Universities are places designed for student life. During your studies you will meet students from Britain and all over the world. Teachers providing English courses at British Universities are highly qualified and very experienced. Some of them may have taught English in your own country during their career, so they will understand some of your experience before coming to Britain. Class sizes are usually small and courses are carefully planned. You will be able to use all the resources for study and to social and sports facilities. The course you will apply for is likely to involve you in regular social activities which are typical of a British University and its environment. Studying in a British University will provide you with the most international experience you can imagine with excellent opportunities to develop your use of English.