Pre-sessional for Unconditional Offer Holders
International students who hold an unconditional offer and would like to better prepare themselves for academic study, as well as settle into the University before their degree programme starts, can join our 4-week pre-sessional.
The 4-week pre-sessional is an intensive course designed to further build your academic skills and language so that you feel ready to get the most out of your degree programme from the moment you start it.
You will complete a short project which will help develop your academic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, as well as your academic language. This project will help you get a better understanding of the resources available to you during your degree and will introduce you to life as a student at York. You’ll also work with your fellow students to develop your team working skills and become more independent learners.
You can study online or on campus. The online option gives you the flexibility to study at your own pace and a time that is convenient for you. Both courses are full-time and you should be prepared to study approximately 37 hours per week.
What do I need to study on this programme?
Whether you are studying online or on campus, you will need a laptop and access to the internet, along with a suitable place to study. If you are having trouble accessing our digital platforms, we can provide help and guidance with this to enable you to make the most of the digital resources on your programme.
Assessment
As this is an optional course for students who have already met their degree entry criteria, there is no summative assessment on this course. There are, however, regular opportunities for formative assessment. You will receive constructive feedback and support from your tutor in order to develop the academic skills you need for your future degree.
Support for students
The International Pathway College (IPC) has its own dedicated Student Support Team that will give you advice and guidance during your pre-sessional course.
We have a number of ways that you can get support during your studies:
- IPC Virtual Reception and telephone line (available Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.30pm BST)
- IPC reception based in the Piazza building
- Student Support Personal Tutor, with weekly drop-in sessions and one-to-one sessions on request
- in-person and online social events to help with wellbeing and more.
We also offer other forms of support across the University:
Welcome and social programme
On campus students will receive a warm welcome upon arrival. We offer a series of in-person and virtual welcome and orientation events, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet staff and fellow students. We will get you fully registered by offering talks about university life, helping you through the enrolment process and completing various compliance checks.
The IPC Student Support team also organise a weekly social programme which students can join. There are lots of things to do on campus and in the city, including tours around York and visiting its theatres, shops and restaurants. The university has excellent sports facilities too.