The Benefits of Studying Academic English in the UK | ILC English Blog

For many international students, studying at a university in the UK or another English-speaking country is a dream. But university study needs more than everyday English. Academic English gives you the language and skills to succeed in lectures, seminars and assignments. Here's why the UK is a great place to learn it.

What is academic English?

Academic English is the language used in universities: formal writing, reading long and complex texts, understanding lectures, taking notes, discussing ideas in seminars and giving presentations. It also includes skills such as referencing sources and building a clear argument.

The benefits of studying academic English in the UK

1. Learn the skills universities expect

Academic English courses teach you how to write essays and reports, summarise and paraphrase sources, and think critically, the skills UK universities expect from day one.

2. Prepare for IELTS at the same time

Many universities require an IELTS score. Academic English and IELTS preparation overlap a lot: both develop reading, writing, listening and speaking at an academic level.

3. Immerse yourself in English

Outside class, you use English all day long, which develops your fluency and confidence much faster than studying at home.

4. Experience UK student life

Studying in a UK city lets you see how British education works, meet students from around the world and get used to life in the UK before your degree starts.

5. Build confidence

Arriving at university already comfortable with lectures, seminars and academic writing makes your first year much less stressful.

Study academic English with ILC

Our Academic English Plus course prepares students for university study, and our IELTS Preparation course helps you reach the score you need. Take our free level test to get started.