A pre-sessional English course is a short English-language programme run by a UK university before your main degree starts. If your IELTS score is slightly below the requirement, some universities will make you a conditional offer that includes a pre-sessional course, so you can start your degree without retaking the test. Availability, length and fees depend on the university and course.
What is a pre-sessional English course?
It is an academic English course that prepares you for study, covering writing, reading, listening and speaking in a university setting. Most are held on campus (and sometimes online) in the weeks before the main course starts. At the end you take an assessment, and passing it satisfies the English condition on your offer.
Who should consider one?
- Applicants whose IELTS score is a little below the university’s requirement.
- Students who have not taken IELTS yet and want a university-run route, where the university offers it.
- Students who want extra academic writing practice before a Master’s.
Pre-sessional courses are not an automatic fix. Most universities set a minimum entry score for the pre-sessional itself, so a very low score may not qualify.
How a pre-sessional offer works
- You apply for the main course and share your IELTS or other English evidence.
- If you are close to the requirement, the university may offer a conditional place plus a pre-sessional course of a set length.
- You pay the course fee in addition to tuition, and the university issues a CAS that covers the pre-sessional period and your main course.
- You apply for a Student visa and travel earlier to attend.
- If you meet the course’s pass mark, you progress to your degree.
Comparing your English options
| Option | Best when | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Retake IELTS | You were a few points short and can improve quickly | Test dates and costs. See how to take IELTS in Nigeria |
| Pre-sessional course | The university offers it for your score band | Course length, fee and visa treatment |
| MOI letter | Your degree was taught in English | University policy. See MOI letter guide |
| Other tests | Your university accepts them | See IELTS alternatives |
Costs and timing to plan for
Pre-sessional courses add tuition for their duration, plus living costs for the extra weeks, and they start before the main course. Longer courses are usually offered to students with lower scores. Ask the university for the exact length for your score and the extra cost, then add it to your budget using the cost of studying in the UK guide.
Visa points to check
- Which English evidence the university will use for your CAS.
- Whether your CAS and visa application cover the pre-sessional dates and the main course together.
- The visa application timing, since the course starts earlier than your degree. See CAS letter for UK student visa.
Frequently asked questions
Can I join a UK Master’s with a pre-sessional instead of IELTS?
Some universities allow this if your score is within their pre-sessional range. Check with admissions.
How long is a pre-sessional course?
It depends on the university and your score. Ask for the course length for your band.
Do I need to pass the pre-sessional to start my degree?
Usually yes. The course ends with an assessment, and the pass mark is stated in your offer.
Is a pre-sessional cheaper than retaking IELTS?
Not usually. A test retake costs less, but a pre-sessional can help if you cannot reach the score quickly.
Find a university with the right English route
NWC Education can shortlist universities that offer pre-sessional routes for your course and score. Start your application or visit an NWC Education office.