International students

Pre-sessional English

Our pre-sessional English language courses prepare you for UK higher education and give you the skills to success in your studies with us.

a female student in a headscarf talking to an out of shot lecturer across a table

Choosing a pre-sessional English course

Pre-sessional English courses are for students who hold an offer to study on a main programme at the University of Hull, but who do not currently meet our English language requirements.

We offer a six and a 10 week online pre-sessional English course every summer. The course you take will depend on the entry requirements of your main programme of study and you current level of English.

If you have met the University's English language requirements, but want to learn more about UK academic culture and student life at the University of Hull, then join Bridging the Gap - our on campus orientation programme for international students.

Course dates, fees and deadlines 2025

These application deadlines are the final dates we can accept applications if places are still available. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible to secure a place.

Six week courseTen week course
Start date7 July9 June
End date15 August15 August
Course fees£2,400£4,000
Application deadline20 June23 May
Payment deadline27 June30 May

Entry requirements

Six week courseTen week course
IELTS (UKVI) AcademicIELTS 5.5 (min. 5.0*)IELTS 5.0 (min. 4.5*)
IELTS (UKVI) AcademicIELTS 6.0 (min. 5.0*)IELTS 5.5 (min. 5.0*)
LanguageCert ESOLB1 High PassB1 Pass

Success in our online pre-sessional English programme depends on being properly prepared, having the correct equipment and set-up, and being fully engaged in the class. If you are thinking about registering for our online pre-=sessional English programme, you must be able to meet the following requirements. You will need:

  • a secure and stable internet connection
  • a laptop or desktop computer with a fully functioning webcam and microphone,. Phones and tablets are not allowed.
  • Microsoft Windows
  • a quiet and private place from where you can attend class. Attending class from a room where other people are present is not allowed.

You will need to demonstrate you can meet the requirements before being allowed to continue on the course.

Ready to get started?

Start your pre-sessional English journey by completing our application form

a female student in focus in a teaching room, with other students around her all learning together

Course overview

Focus

Our pre-sessional English courses help international students achieve two objectives:

  • Demonstrate the level of English required for their main programme of study.
  • Develop key academic skills in English such as essay writing, referencing course, critical thinking, note taking, and participating in seminars.

Structure

The courses are structured so that classes take place every morning from Monday to Friday, so you'll have time in the afternoon to focus on extended learning and assignments. The 6 abnd10-week courses follow the same format:

  • Daily teacher led group classes.
  • Weekly one-to-one tutorial with your class tutor.
  • Access to additional practise and self-study resources.
  • Regular feedback on your progress and personalised guidance from your tutor.

Assessment

During the course, you will be evaluated on how well you perform in the following areas:

  • Identifying and drawing on relevant information in academic texts to formulate a response to an essay question.
  • Writing an essay on an assigned academic topic, including planning and draft submissions.
  • Understanding and being able to refer to key information given in academic lectures and presentations.
  • Contributing to a group seminar discussion on an assigned academic topic.
  • Participating in the course, identifying appropriate learning goals, and reflecting on the progress you have made.

Apply now

Apply for our pre-sessional English Language courses by completing the online application form.

For guidance on which course is most suitable for you, or to find out more about our pre-sessional English entry requirements, fees or course dates, contact us by email or phone.

* Minimum grade in each skill area. A maximum of two sub-skills are at the minimum grade.

You can find out more about the English language qualifications we accept here