English language support

The College's language of instruction is English – the language of most of the people served by the College and that of the people working in it. The College therefore recognises proficiency in English as a fundamental (or 'core' or 'key' or 'essential') skill. Classes are taught in English and learning materials are also in the English language. It is, therefore, important for students to be sufficiently proficient in English, if they are to be able to study effectively and succeed.

For people whose first language is not English, Aberdeen College offers dedicated programmes of study to help them gain the English language skills they need. These courses are called English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL for short).

For anyone wishing to enter mainstream College programmes of study it is important that they are sufficiently fluent in English before starting their course. The College is not in a position to provide language training as a complement to mainstream courses (i.e. during a mainstream course). Evidence of proficiency in English is required of people whose first language is not English, prior to admittance to mainstream courses. It is not enough for people to assert they are proficient in their applications to the College.

The following are the minimum standards of language skill required:

For further education mainstream courses (also known as ‘non-advanced’ course): the IELTS 5.0 across all bands, or equivalent is required. As a general guide these are courses from the most basic to – but not including – Higher National Certificate programmes.

For higher education mainstream courses (also known as ‘advanced’ courses), the IELTS 5.5 across all bands or equivalent standard is required. These are courses at Higher National Certificate level or above. Exceptions include the Access to Nursing course where we require IELTS 6.0 (across all the bands) or equivalent and HNC Healthcare with IELTS 7.5 (across all the bands) or equivalent.

The College will help students consolidate and extend their skills in English whether they have English as a first language or not. This support may be provided in a variety of ways including dedicated drop-in support slots, set classes, open learning, e-learning, as deemed appropriate by the College. What the organisation cannot do is teach individuals English language skills to the level necessary to commence a mainstream course (ESOL courses excepted).

If an applicant does not have the required proficiency in English he/she may be offered alternative provision more suited to his/her needs by the College, if places are available on a suitable programme.

English language exams

Aberdeen College offer students the opportunity to sit internationally recognised qualifications.

Test of English for International Communication (TOIEC)

The cost of the Speaking and Writing test is £90. The cost of the listening and reading part is £75 if you haven’t completed the course with the College, or £55 if you have. For more information on dates and availability please contact the Assessment Centre office in LG10 - 01224 612237. You can also see their website www.uk.toeic.eu for more information. Please note that the TOEIC qualifications are only valid for two years.

Cambridge exams

• Key English Test (KET): Elementary (A2) level. Cost: £35. Date: Friday 1 June, 2012
• Preliminary English Test (PET): Pre-intermediate (B1) level (Intermediate 1). Cost: £40. Date: Friday 1 June, 2012
• First Certificate in English (FCE): Intermediate 2 (B2) level. Cost: £70. Date: Saturday 9 June, 2012
• Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): Advanced (C1) level. Cost: £75. Date: Wednesday 13 June, 2012
• CPE – Aberdeen College do not offer this exam

The closing date for applying for the Cambridge exams is the 15th March 2012 and the form can be picked up from the examination officer who is based in the Information and Booking Centre. Please see the Examination Officer, Willie Kelman, or contact him on 01224 612126.