International Study Centre

English Language requirement for undergraduate study

The International Foundation Year improves your English to the equivalent of IELTS 6.0-6.5, the level required to study an undergraduate degree at the University of Sussex.

The number of terms of preparation you will need to complete before you start your degree programme, depends on your English language proficiency:

• IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent) - you can join the Foundation Year programme
• IELTS 4.0 (or equivalent) - you will need one term of English language Preparation, followed by the Foundation Year
• IELTS 3.0 (or equivalent) -you will need at least two terms of English Language Preparation, followed by the Foundation Year

If you don’t have a current IELTS grade, you may still apply to the ISC. Please contact us to find out about alternative assessment of your English Language level.

English Language Preparation (ELP) course

If your English level is below IELTS 5.0, you first need to join the ELP course. This intensive course, delivered at the International Study Centre, provides additional language training. It will improve your English language skills up to the required level of IELTS 5.0.

Study plan options

The grid below shows the length of study required at the ISC in preparation for an undergraduate degree, according to your English Language level: