One of the entry requirements for courses at the University of Southampton is an appropriate level of English. You can find further information on English language qualifications and grades accepted by the University on the English Language Proficiency page.
Some courses may have higher English language entry requirements, if you are unsure about the requirements for your course, please contact the International Office or the relevant academic unit for guidance. In all cases, your English language certificate should normally have been obtained within the last two years prior to the application. For further information, please see the University Admissions page.
In accordance with University regulations, international students whose first language is not English must provide evidence of their ability to communicate in English by offering one of the recognised tests in English, or by supplying evidence that you have undertaken formal study in English at an institution that teaches award-bearing programmes in English.
This is applicable to all overseas students except those from countries named by the University as being exempt from testing.
The Centre for Language Study in Humanities can provide a choice of English language classes to suit your needs. The Centre is a member of the British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes (BALEAP).
You could choose to take a Pre-sessional English course in the summer before your formal studies begin. There are different options lasting from 6 to 16 weeks depending on your initial level, course entry requirements start at IELTS 5.0. Other courses you may be interested in include the International Foundation Year and the pre-Masters Programmes.
The University also provides English language support throughout the academic year. This can be particularly useful if you find, once your course has begun, that you would benefit from extra help with English for academic purposes. It is also possible to learn a language as part of your degree. For further information, please visit the Centre for Language Study website.
If you have any general queries about English language requirements, please contact the International Office:
Email: global@southampton.ac.uk
If you are from outside the European Union, tel: +44 (0)23 8059 9699
If you are from a country in the European Union, tel: +44 (0)23 8059 2772
Your conditional offer letter from the University will detail the English languge requirements for your programme of study.
Find out more at English Language Proficiency
The Centre for Language Study (CLS), based at Avenue Campus, provides language learning for staff and students across the University
Find out moreThe Centre for Language Study (CLS), based at Avenue Campus, provides language learning for staff and students across the University
Find out moreThe Centre for Language Study (CLS), based at Avenue Campus, provides language learning for staff and students across the University
Find out more