Our pre-sessional English language courses help you prepare for successful study in the UK. If you pass the course, you’ll meet the English language requirements for your degree. Applications are now open for courses starting from April 2026.
Our pre-sessional English courses help you develop the language and study skills you need for university study. They cover understanding lectures and academic texts, writing assignments, taking part in seminars and giving presentations.
You’ll also:
learn how to access University resources and develop successful learning strategies
meet other students and staff at educational and social events
experience university life in the UK before your degree begins if, you choose an on-campus pre-sessional course
Small classes
Maximum of 16 students per class
Dedicated tutors
English Language and education specialists
You'll learn in a supportive environment and have access to the Student Hub and Wellbeing services.
Our next courses start in May 2026. You can choose to study in person at Avenue Campus or online. You can explore Avenue Campus and take a virtual tour.
If you choose to study in person and you're not a UK resident, you'll need a student visa.
What our students say
During my pre-sessional experience, I made many new friends. Most importantly, I also learned a lot. I highly recommend everyone attend pre-sessional classes, as they allow you to get a head start.
Pre-sessional student, 2025
My pre-sessional experience has been truly wonderful. The courses were well - designed, the teachers were dedicated, and the overall learning atmosphere was very positive. I feel much more prepared for my upcoming academic studies after this programme.
Pre-sessional student, 2025
Applying for a course
We offer pre-sessional courses of 16, 11 or 6 weeks, available for in-person or online study. Longer courses give you more time for learning and feedback.
Pre-sessional courses are only available if you hold a valid offer for a University of Southampton degree in the coming academic year.
To decide which course is right for you, you'll need to:
determine your current English language proficiency level
find the English language requirement for your degree course
choose the pre-sessional course that will help you meet your English language requirement
check you meet the entry requirement for the pre-sessional course
We use the University of Southampton English Language Proficiency Bands in our entry requirements and pre-sessional courses. These are based on International English Testing System (IELTS) scores. IELTS gives an overall score and a score for the individual reading, writing, speaking and listening components.
At the end of your pre-sessional English course you will achieve one of these English language bands.
2026 In-person and online course dates, deadlines and fees
Course
Start date
End date
Apply by
Pay deposit by
Fee
16 weeks (campus or online)
7 May
27 August
2 April
13 April
£8,160
11 weeks (campus or online)
11 June
27 August
7 May
18 May
£5,940
6 weeks cohort B (campus or online)
2 July
13 August
28 May
8 June
£3,600
6 weeks cohort C (campus only)
23 July
3 September
25 June
2 July
£3,600
Select the English language band you need for your degree course, then choose the pre-sessional course you need to apply for.
Your current level of English
Course you need to apply for
5.0 overall with at least 5.0 in all components
16 weeks
5.5 overall with at least 5.0 in all components
11 weeks
6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in all components
6 weeks
Your current level of English
Course you need to apply for
5.0 overall with at least 5.0 in all components
16 weeks
5.5 overall with at least 5.5 in reading and writing and 5.0 in speaking and listening
11 weeks
6.0 overall with at least 6.0 in reading and writing and 5.5 in speaking and listening
6 weeks
Your current level of English
Course you need to apply for
5.0 overall with at least 5.0 in all components
16 weeks
5.5 overall with at least 5.5 in all components
11 weeks
6.0 overall with at least 6.0 in all components
6 weeks
Your current level of English
Course you need to apply for
5.5 overall with at least 5.0 in all components
16 weeks
6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in all components
11 weeks
6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in all components
6 weeks
If you need a different band from those listed, or you’re applying with another English language test, you can read our full English Language Proficiency page. This explains the English language tests we accept, including those that are UKVI compliant for study on campus.
We will email you within 5 working days after we receive your application.
If your application is successful and there is a place available on your chosen course, we will send you a conditional offer.
Accept your offer within 14 days and pay £500 deposit to secure your place.
We will email you instructions on how to pay your deposit. After 14 days, the deposit is non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a degree programme. Full terms and conditions for deposits and tuition fees will be included in your offer letter.
