English language programmes

The test

The University of South Wales now uses Password™ to test the level of English language proficiency of prospective students. However, this may not always be convenient for some students, so therefore we also offer the option of taking an alternative test through the Centre for International English. 

This test currently costs £80 and consists of a reading comprehension, an academic writing task and an extended discussion. Students holding conditional offers for a degree programme at University of South Wales can apply for the test by contacting [email protected].

Outside the UK

Tests are also available for prospective students outside the UK through our network of trusted representatives. Please contact your in-country representative or the officer responsible for students from your country for further details.

Please note that international students wishing to attend a pre-degree programme such as the Pre-sessional, or Foundation or HNC will need to take a Secure English Language Test in order to obtain a Tier 4 visa. Students should check the UKVI website for the list of approved SELTs.

In-sessional classes are available to any overseas students who want to improve their academic English skills. The course is designed to practise the skills needed to write academic essays and reports.

It also covers approaches to academic reading, research and an introduction to presentation skills. The courses run in blocks of 8 -10 weeks in the autumn and spring terms and classes last for two hours each week.

There will be three classes each week, running at different times. Please check posters at the beginning of term.

We offer a range of short courses and summer schools. These can be booked by individuals (subject to demand) or for closed groups, such as companies, schools or colleges. 

Please email [email protected] for more information.

The Centre for International English provides a range of language and educational training courses for individuals, organisations and educational institutions. 

Our teaching team can come to your place of work, or arrange a bespoke training programme here at the University. We can also arrange guest lectures, tutorials and visits relevant to your subject area.

Please email: [email protected] for more information.

As internationalisation becomes more significant in higher education, learning and teaching through the medium of English is at the forefront of many institutions’ agendas. 

We provide bespoke professional practice programmes for academics from all over the world. 

During these programmes, which range from four to twelve weeks in length, you and your colleagues will develop contemporary teaching techniques as you explore your academic disciplines and further your research interests. 

For more information on Academic Professional Practice and all our programmes, please read our brochure.

Here at the Centre for International English we have a core team of six permanent members of staff as well as several hourly-paid lecturers who teach during our busiest period from July to December. 

Contact us: [email protected]

Emily Powell - Manager

I have been teaching English to International Students for past 12 years and have developed, taught, and co-ordinated a range of programmes in the Centre for International English at USW. 

I currently lead the Centre and work on teacher training courses with participants from China, Mexico, and the UK. In addition to my work in CIE, I am also an assessor for the BALEAP Accreditation Scheme, and am currently working towards a PhD in Forensic Linguistics.

Joe Francis - Programme Coordinator

I joined the Centre for International English in late 2015 and have previously taught in Bristol, Bath, London and overseas in Japan. At USW I coordinate the pre-sessional English programmes and put together bespoke programs for overseas teachers. 

My interests include materials development and integrating skills whilst outside of university I am a keen runner, cyclist and extremely bad drummer!

Rachel Stamp - Programme Coordinator

I have been teaching English since 1997, and my work has taken me to some exciting places – South Korea, Jordan and Japan – as well as the UK. In Tokyo I worked as an IELTS examiner. 

I first joined the USW team in 2003, and more recently I have been able to continue my interests in materials development and testing. I co-ordinate the International Foundation Programme.

Peter Squires - Tutor

I am a graduate of the University of South Wales (formerly Glamorgan) and have been teaching at the CIE since 2011, where I am currently a tutor in English for Academic Purposes. I am module leader for Advanced Academic Writing and Introduction to Social Issues. 

I am also coordinator for USW entrance testing. In recent years I have also acted as coordinator for the International Foundation Programme, and bespoke pre-sessional programmes. I have been teaching English since 2003 and have taught in the UK, Italy and Libya. My interests include History, genealogy and the history of English.

Louise Karabulut - Tutor

I have been teaching English to international students since 2000. I have taught in London, Istanbul and Wales. I started at USW in 2004 designing, co-ordinating and delivering courses at foundation and undergraduate level. 

After several years overseas, I have happily returned to USW. As well as EFL, I have an interest in international relations.

Gunita Sapa - Tutor

I have been teaching English since 2011, and I have worked in China, Spain, and the UK. Since joining USW in 2017 I have taught on a range of Centre of International English programs. My role also involves assisting in the development of new materials for bespoke programs.  

I have a passion for languages, travelling and most recently – crochet. 

Guy Hicks - Administrator

I have been working at the University of South Wales since 2006, where I started in Campus Administration. I now manage all the administration within the Centre for International English, where I support the students from pre-registration up until they receive their results and move on to further studies. 

I also support the academic staff in the centre, including general admin and IT support, financial records and attendance registers. I am currently completing my Masters in Sports Therapy.