ENGLISH OAK
RECRUITMENTTo study successfully in England, you obviously need to be confident and accurate in your use of the English language. Remember that you will be reading, writing, listening and conversing in English. You will even need to think in English! Lecturers, students and those you meet will forget – or not know – that English is not your first language, and you cannot keep asking them to ‘slow down’ or repeat what they have said!
In order to
determine your suitability to study in England, universities use a variety
of methods to assess your language skills. The most common of these is the
language test. There are a number of recognised tests universities deem
acceptable (see accompanying chart) but generally, the following standard
is required:
Cambridge
Advanced
IELTS
6.0
TOEFL
550
London
Chamber of Commerce Level 3
Some
universities may be willing to accept a reference from your language tutor
in lieu of a recognised qualification, but you are strongly urged to
obtain one of the qualifications listed above. It will ensure you have a
fair chance of obtaining a place at one of the universities and it will
prove a useful additional qualification on your curriculum vitae after you
have graduated.
Universities
may also make reference to the personal statement in your application form
or invite you for a telephone/videoconference/personal interview as a
means of assessing your language capabilities.
You can
obtain an initial indication of your language ability when you attend Alan
Hallett’s presentation at your college/university. Alan will speak to you at a speed
– and using language – that is commensurate with a typical lecture in
England. If you can understand him clearly and easily (though not
necessarily his awful jokes!) then you can feel rather more confident that
you would be able to study successfully in England.
If you are
interested in taking one of the language examinations listed above, you
should contact your International Office: they will be able to provide you
with more detailed information.
The examination is aimed at candidates for whom establishing and sustaining English speaking business relationships is essential,
and at those considering relocation to an English-speaking country. The skills attained at this level should be sufficient for the
candidate to participate in all complex areas of business. Level 3 is generally the standard required for entry to English-speaking
universities. The Optional Oral test is available to candidates undertaking English for Business at any level. The Test is based
around the discussion of a business-related topic.
IELTS 6.0 - International English Language Testing System
Competent User has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and
misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
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