There is no specific English Language admission requirement. Once students have been accepted, their English level is assessed in order to determine how much additional English they require and to place them in the appropriate language group. This is because all instruction at the University is given in English and it is, therefore, essential to ensure that a student is sufficiently prepared in the language to be able to succeed in his/her chosen degree field.

English Language Placement Test

Students are assigned to English groups at their correct English language level by a Placement Test that all students must take.

• All applicants must schedule an English Language Placement Test with the Student Affairs Office.
• If applicants want to re-schedule their English Language Placement Test, they should contact the Student Affairs Office at least 48 hours prior to their scheduled test.

The Placement Test BUE uses is an internationally-recognised and standardised English Placement Test. It is one hour long. No preparation is needed since the purpose is simply to assess the student’s current language proficiency so as to place him or her in the appropriate English level.

There are opportunities to take the test on given days in the summer. The Schedule of test dates may be obtained from the Student Affairs Office.

Based on their test score, students take one of two paths:

Preparatory Year Programme

Most students will have direct entry into the Preparatory Year Programme by being placed into one of five levels of the English programme. Successful completion of a module is required to pass on to the next level.

The sequence of the modules is:
Pre Intermediate
Intermediate
Upper Intermediate
Advanced*
Advanced Writing*

 (* These modules are compulsory for all students)

Reinforcement Programme

This is designed for students whose level of English is that of a “minimal user”. Such a level of English does not qualify them to embark on studies in the Preparatory Year Programme where English is essential for academic success.

The Reinforcement English Programme is an intensive one year long programme preceding the Preparatory Year Programme. The Reinforcement Programme aims to improve students’ language proficiency level through the integrated development of the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening.

The Reinforcement Programme offers 15 hours of class study per week. In addition to class study, students are expected to work independently through the use of the language laboratory and completion of additional work.