Pre-sessional English

Brunel Language Centre is British Council Accredited and recognised by the English Language Gazette as a Centre of Excellence.

At the Brunel Language Centre, our Pre-sessional English courses are tailored to help international students meet the English language requirements for UK university programmes, including Brunel University of London.

With British Council accreditation and recognition as a Centre of Excellence by the English Language Gazette, we deliver high-quality courses designed to prepare you for academic success.

Course Format

Whether you prefer studying in-person on our vibrant London campus or online, our courses provide the flexibility to suit your needs.

• Interactive Learning: 19 hours of English tuition per week, plus guided self-study and small group tutorials.
• Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalised attention with a maximum of 14 participants (usually 12).
• Comprehensive Skills Development: Improve your academic writing, reading, listening, speaking, and vocabulary.
• Minimum Age Requirement: Open to students aged 17 and above.
• Free Coursebook: Gain access to high-quality learning materials at no extra cost.
• End-of-Course Test: Assess your progress and readiness for university-level study.
• Additional Support: Immigration and visa advice to ease your transition to the UK.

Choose from a range of start dates and study durations. Our courses are ideal for international students aiming to enhance their academic English and thrive in a university environment.

Sample Timetable

For more information, see our brochure. 

You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.

At the end of your Pre-sessional course, you will sit the Brunel English Language Test (BrunELT), evaluating your skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

You'll receive individual component scores and an overall score.

For tailored advice on eligibility, send your most recent English language qualification to blc-admissions@brunel.ac.uk. A range of alternative exams are acceptable for Standard Visitor and Short -Term Study Visas.

Course Fees

Visit our 'Course Fees and Dates' page for the latest information on fees and available courses.

Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.

We encourage students to plan their travels during the longer Brunel Language Centre closure periods to avoid missing essential lessons. Please refrain from making travel arrangements during term time to ensure you get the most out of your English learning journey.

Non-teaching Dates and Holidays

Brunel Language Centre observes the following holidays and breaks, during which no classes will take place:

2025:

Monday 14 April – Friday 25 April (Easter Break)

Monday 5 May (Early May Bank Holiday)

Important Note: Students finishing English courses in May 2025 should ensure availability until Friday 9 May 2025.  

Monday 26 May (Spring Bank Holiday)

Monday 25 August (Summer Bank Holiday)

Important Note: Students finishing English courses in September 2025 should ensure availability until Friday 12  September 2025.  

Students finishing English courses in December 2025 should ensure availability until Friday 12  December 2025.

During Bank Holidays, many businesses, including Brunel University, will be closed. For a smooth experience, please take these dates into account when planning your schedule.

Discover why students from all over the world choose Brunel Language Centre for their Academic English studies:

• Experienced Instructors: Learn from highly qualified and dedicated lecturers who specialise in English language teaching and are committed to your success.
• Small Class Sizes: With a maximum of 14 students per class, you’ll receive personalised attention to help you achieve your goals.
• Modern Facilities: Study in a vibrant university setting with state-of-the-art classrooms, excellent learning resources, and access to Brunel University’s full range of facilities.
• Accreditation and Excellence: We are British Council-accredited and proud to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence by EL Gazette, with top marks for teaching, student support, and resources. 

  For reports, please see here:

  • Full report 2016 brunel_full_2016_revised.pdf (britishcouncil.org) (PDF 335KB)
  • Compliance report 2021 (britishcouncil.org) (PDF 201KB)
• Support Services: Enjoy expert immigration advice, pastoral care, and a friendly environment that ensures your experience is both rewarding and enjoyable.
• Prime Location: Located in West London, our campus offers excellent transport links, making it easy to explore the city while you study.

Join a course with a near 100% retention rate and a 96% to 100% pass rate. Our students consistently highlight the quality of teaching and the supportive, inclusive environment they experience at Brunel. Take the first step towards improving your English in a high-quality English course in London. Take the first step towards improving your English by choosing the best course for you at Brunel Language Centre.

To learn more, please see: Our English Language Courses Our English Language courses | Brunel University London

Please visit our 'Why Brunel Language Centre' webpage for more information.

Studying at Brunel Language Centre may be your first stepping stone to life at Brunel. You will be joining a lively student community, in which we provide a friendly and supportive teaching environment in order to help you achieve the results you need for success in your future work or study.

For more information, please visit Before you arrive page.

How to Enrol

• Fees: fees vary depending on the course. Please visit our 'Course Fees and Dates' page for up-to-date information.
• Payment Options: Flexible payment options are available, including online payments and bank transfers. Details on how to make a payment will be provided during the application process.
• Deadlines: Ensure you submit your application and make payment by the specified deadlines to secure your place.

Getting Here

• By Public Transport: The campus is just a short bus ride from Uxbridge Underground Station, served by the Metropolitan and Piccadilly Lines. Regular buses also connect us to surrounding areas.
• By Car: Conveniently located near the M25, M40, and M4 motorways, with on-campus parking available.
• By Air: Heathrow Airport is just 20 minutes away, and we offer a free airport pick-up service for international students.
• Explore the Area: Our West London location combines a peaceful campus atmosphere with easy access to London’s world-class attractions. Nearby, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, shops, and scenic green spaces like Colne Valley Park.

Accommodation Options

Choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs:

• On-campus student housing for a convenient and immersive experience.
• Off-campus accommodation, including private renting and homestays, for a more flexible and personalised living arrangement.

For general inquiries, call us or send us an email: 

Telephone: +44 (0)1895 268089

Brunel Language Centre: languagecentre@brunel.ac.uk

For any specific questions, please visit this webpage: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/international/language-centre/contact-us