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Academic English Skills
Academic skills are the essential tools you need to successfully study at university. They include understanding academic texts, structuring ideas and arguments and communicating clearly with critical thinking, independent learning and effective study strategies. These skills are important for all students because university study is not only about language ability but also about knowing how to apply it in an academic context.
At Leeds International Study Centre for Progression to University of Leeds you are taught by tutors who specialise in international education and understand what it takes to succeed at University of Leeds. Classes are small and supportive, giving you more individual attention and regular feedback. From the start, you develop the academic and study skills, confidence and ways of thinking you need to succeed in Year 2 and beyond.
During the International Year One (IY1), you will study Academic Skills at the level that’s right for you. Instead of the same module for everyone, you are placed in a group that matches your current level determined by your IELTS score (or equivalent) at entry. Being in a class that matches your level helps you get the best results from your studies.
How it works
To help you succeed in your studies, you will be placed in one of two modules based on your IELTS English level when you join the programme.
Academic English Skills - for students starting at IELTS 5.5
You will study Academic English Skills, developing core academic abilities that support success across your International Year One subject modules, including:
- Academic writing and essay structure
- Reading and understanding academic texts
- Effective note‑taking from lectures
- Speaking confidently in seminars and presentations
This route helps you build strong academic English foundations and progress confidently through International Year One, fully prepared for Year 2 of your undergraduate degree
Applied Critical Skills for University - for students with IELTS 6.5 overall or above
Applied Critical Skills is designed for students who already use English confidently and want to achieve strong academic results at university.
Some students with strong English choose to enter university directly. University Academic Skills offers a more supported alternative. You meet university entry requirements but you also gain structured preparation before progressing to Year 2. This means you develop the academic skills, confidence and study habits universities expect with guidance, feedback and support along the way.
You will study Applied Critical Skills focusing on:
- Critical analysis of academic texts
- Advanced academic writing at degree level
- Developing a confident academic voice
- Building and sustaining strong arguments
- Understanding what university teachers expect in assessments
You’ll study alongside students with a similar English level. The focus is not on more English practice, it’s about learning how to study in English in reading, writing, thinking and university assessments.
A smarter way to prepare for university
As an International Year One student, you can access these benefits without extending the time or cost of their degree – boosting your, academic and professional success from day one. With the right Academic English support you don’t just start university, you start ready and confident in your abilities and prepared for academic success in Year 2 and beyond.
You learn more effectively
When your classes are at the right level, you make stronger academic progress and achieve better results.
You feel confident from the start
The right level of support helps you understand university expectations early which means you are less likely to struggle or need extra support later.
You participate more in class
Studying with students at a similar level, taught by experienced academic English tutors, helps you share ideas, ask questions and take part confidently.
You focus on academic thinking
You spend less time worrying about language and more time thinking, analysing and applying ideas.
Fluent English is important, but university study needs more than language. Academic Skills help you analyse ideas, write clearly, build strong arguments and understand assessment expectations.
UK universities expect independent learning, critical thinking and a clear academic style. Academic Skills help you understand how to study, write and succeed in this system.
University study is more independent. You’re expected to manage your own time, read widely, research independently and prepare for classes without step‑by‑step guidance. Academic Skills help you develop these skills before entering university, giving you an advantage over direct‑entry and UK students who begin university without these skills.
You’re learning, socialising and thinking in English while settling into a new country. Universities also teach at native speaker pace and use specialist terminology. Academic Skills help you keep up and take part confidently.
No. This is about how to study successfully in English, taught by specialists in academic English and international university education. You focus on academic thinking, writing and study strategies.
Yes. You develop skills employers value: clear communication, critical thinking, organisation and confidence which are all useful for your degree and your career.
How to apply
Discover how to apply for a programme at the International Study Centre. You can also find the documents you need to provide alongside your application.
International Study Centre
Study abroad programs at the International Study Centre offers opportunities for international students to study in the UK. Discover how to progress to an undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.