Pre-sessional English for Master's Preparation

Master your English. Prepare for your future.

What is it? Key benefits Programme Overview What you will learn Term structure Entry requirements Ready to start?

Are you aiming for a postgraduate degree but need to strengthen your English language skills first? The NCUK Pre-sessional English for Master’s Preparation is your dedicated bridge to academic success.

What is the Pre-sessional English for Master’s Preparation programme?

Designed for ambitious students who demonstrate the academic potential for postgraduate study but do not yet meet the English language entry requirements for our Master’s Preparation programme, this programme ensures you are fully equipped for the rigours of advanced study.

Key benefits

Progression to a trusted preparation programme: Successfully complete the programme and progress to the NCUK Master’s Preparation.
Postgraduate readiness: Develop the language skills required for research, dissertation writing, and academic debate.
Flexible entry: Join the programme at the stage that matches your current English proficiency, ensuring an efficient path to your goals.

Programme Overview

The Pre-sessional English programme is designed to bridge the gap between your current English level and the Master’s Preparation programme, providing the right preparation for postgraduate study. The curriculum focuses on ensuring you learn how to use English as a tool for research and analysis. Click below to read the an overview of the programme:

Programme Overview

What you will learn

Academic reading & writing: Master the structure of academic essays and reports, citation methods, and the use of formal academic vocabulary.
Research skills: Learn to navigate academic databases, synthesise information from multiple sources, and evaluate the reliability of research materials.
Critical thinking: Develop the ability to critique arguments, construct your own evidence-based viewpoints, and engage in intellectual debate.
Listening & speaking: Build confidence in delivering professional presentations and contributing effectively to seminar discussions.

Term structure

Depending on your current English level, you will enter at one of the following stages:

Term 0 (entry for students with IELTS 3.5 or equivalent): Focuses on essential English skills and high-frequency vocabulary to build a strong base.

Term 1 (entry for students with IELTS 4.0 or equivalent): Expands into reading informational texts, organising paragraphs, and delivering basic presentations.

Terms 2 & 3 (entry for students with IELTS 4.5 or equivalent): Advanced preparation involving abstract topics, complex synthesis of sources, and independent study to ensure you are fully ready for the Master’s Preparation.

Entry requirements

To join the Pre-sessional English for Master’s Preparation, you must meet the following criteria:

English language requirements

Entry points vary depending on your current proficiency*:

Term 0 entry: IELTS 3.5 equivalent
Term 1 entry: IELTS 4.0 equivalent
Term 2 entry: IELTS 4.5 equivalent

*If you do not have an English language test result, your chosen NCUK Study Centre will be able to test you prior to starting the programme.

Academic requirements

You must meet the academic entry requirements for the NCUK Master’s Preparation. This generally requires the successful completion of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. View the full academic entry requirements on the Master’s Preparation page:

Master's Preparation

Ready to start?

Start here and progress seamlessly to the NCUK Master’s Preparation, your pathway to leading universities worldwide.

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