ELP key facts

  • Course length:
    One or two terms depending on English Language level 
  • Tuition fee
  • Entry points
    January: 2-term ELP only
    April: 2-term ELP only 
    June: 1-term or 2-term ELP
    September: 1-term ELP only
  • Entry requirements:
    - Equivalent of IELTS 4.0 for one term of ELP
    - Equivalent of IELTS 3.5 for two terms of ELP
  • Course structure: 25 hours per week tuition plus 10 hours per week of self-study
  • Assessment: internal test based on the English-Speaking Union’s nine-point scale
  • Progression: On successful completion, to the Pre-Masters

English Language requirement for Masters study

The Pre-Masters improves your English to the equivalent of IELTS 6.5, the level required to study a taught Masters degree at the University of Sussex.

The number of terms of preparation you will need to complete before you start your Masters degree depends on your English Language proficiency:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) - you can join the two-term Pre-Masters
  • IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent) - you can study the three-term Pre-Masters
  • IELTS 4.0 (or equivalent) - you will need one term of English language Preparation, followed by the three-term Pre-Masters
  • IELTS 3.5 (or equivalent) - you will need at least two terms of English Language Preparation, followed by the three-term Pre-Masters

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 language 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 a Masters degree, according to your English Language level.

Current IELTS Duration Apr Jun Sept
Jan
Apr
Jun
Oct
3.5
5 terms
Start Masters degree
3.5
5 terms
4.0
4 terms
4.0
4 terms
5.0
3 terms
5.0
3 terms
6.0
2 terms
6.0
2 terms

ELP   Pre-Masters   Vacation