Pre-University Experience
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Experience Welsh and British culture, in the beautiful setting of a seaside town located in mid Wales.
The aim of this course is to give high school students an opportunity to improve their English language skills, gain insight into what studying at university is like, and how approaches to learning differ between school and university.
Overview
The Pre-University Experience Course immerses students in university life with seminars and practical workshops. It includes:
- 6 or more different academic departments
- Focussed academic English and study skills preparation for university
- British and Welsh culture classes and activities
- A lively, social activities programme and trips
The course is taught on the main Aberystwyth University campus, and students will have full access to all University facilities including 24-hour computer rooms and libraries, the University Arts Centre, Sports Centre and other University facilities. Also students can make use of the wonderful resources at the National Library of Wales, located just next door.
Who is the course for?
This course is for high school students who want to improve their English and experience a taste of university study in Britain.
| Age | 15-18 years old |
|---|---|
| Language Level | Minimum English requirement: CEFR B1/IELTS 4.5 - CEFR B2/IELTS 6.0 |
What will I study?
You will have 20 hours tuition per week, from Monday to Friday. Each week you will typically spend 12 hours studying English, and 8 hours in different university departments. There are also organised trips with other international students, provided on Wednesday afternoons and Saturdays, and evening social activities twice a week.
English Language and Study Skills classes will focus on improving your spoken and written communication, and developing vital skills students need at university. You will learn how to carry out small-scale research projects, participate actively in seminars, give formal presentations and develop your own "academic voice".
You will also take part in activities organised by 6 different departments in the university. Each department will provide you with a lively, interactive and fun introduction to their subject. It does not matter whether you have studied the subject before or not.
One day you might be writing computer code and programming a robot in the University's Robotics Lab, the next you might be exploring global poverty in the International Politics Department, or you may find yourself making your own movie in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television.
Depending on the group's needs and interests, your University Experience Course may include activities with the following departments:
- Art
- Life Sciences
- Computer Science
- Education
- English and Creative Writing
- Geography and Earth Sciences
- International Politics
- Law and Criminology
- Business
- Psychology
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Theatre, Film and Television Studies
Example Timetable
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mornings | English language lessons | Robotics & AI | English language lessons | Psychology | English language lessons | Organised Trip | Free Time |
| Afternoon | International Relations | English Language Lessons | Social Activity | English Language Lessons | History & Welsh History | ||
| Evening | Social Activity | Free Time | Free Time | Social Activity | Free Time |
Social Activity
These can range from bonfire on the beach, welch cultural activities, sports day and more!
Free Time
This is a great time to explore the local area - try out the restaurants, go for a walk on the seafront or hike our nature trails.
Organised Trip
Every year we try to organise a special trip for our students. Past years have included trips to Cardiff and Liverpool!
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in our Halls of Residence, and students share a six or eight bedroom apartment or house with their classmates and group leaders.
Dates and Fees
2025 dates
30 June - 11 July
Arrival on 28 or 29 June, departure on 12 July.
The high school or nominated group leader is responsible for ensuring all course participants have adequate travel insurance to cover their journey, possessions and any medical treatment necessary. There are many insurance policies designed especially for international students.
2025 fees
For group booking fees please contact the International English Centre directly: tesol@aber.ac.uk
For groups applying with Academic Action please contact Paolo Rizzo: paolo.r@academic-action.com
Health & Safety
All Pre-University course students have:
- a 24/7 phone number to contact IEC Staff in case of an emergency
- access to 24/7 Site Security across the campus
- 24/7 safety & security systems in all student accommodation and individual student bedrooms
- First Aid trained members of staff within the IEC, and on-call across the university campus, including in accommodation
- an IEC Contact Card, issued at registration, with useful contact details for the IEC, the University and emergency services in the UK
- academic tutorials with experienced and qualified teaching staff
- IEC Social Programme
Further information can be found on our Welfare and Support page.
How to apply
Contact tesol@aber.ac.uk to register your interest.
Our Partners:
Academic Action
Paolo Rizzo - paolo.r@academic-action.com