Prepare for Study
We understand that coming to a different country to study can be a very challenging experience. If English is not your first language, you may find it difficult at first attending lectures and seminars conducted in English.
In addition, you may need to adapt to a different academic culture and way of studying.
Centre for Academic Success
At Birmingham City University our Centre for Academic Success provides all international students with extensive, free English language and study support throughout their time at the University.
English classes and short courses include speaking skills, academic and general writing, presentation skills, reading, listening and grammar, while study support includes individual tutorials and a range of free study guides.
International students are also welcome to attend the workshops that the Centre for Academic Success runs throughout the year.
Pre-sessional English Courses
The University runs two English Pre-sessional courses in July and August for 5 or 10 weeks. They are intended to improve students' command of English and to prepare them for the course at Birmingham City University for which they have been made a provisional offer. Classes cover a mixture of General English and an introduction to Academic English, providing practice in writing, reading, grammar, listening and formal and informal speaking. The Pre-sessional English site contains timetables and general information as well as academic and social programmes.
Prepare for Success
Prepare for Success is an interactive web learning tool for international students who are getting ready to come to the UK for study in further or higher education. This site is provided by the UK Council for International Student Affairs. It contains learning resources which are activity-based to help you find out about different aspects of academic life in the UK and the skills needed for effective study. As well as preparing you for what to expect during your studies, the activities provide scope for English language improvement*.
The British Council
The British Council website also contains information for international students studying in the UK.
Go to New Students: Prepare to Come to the UK