Congratulations on receiving an offer from the University of Edinburgh! If you haven't yet met the direct English language requirements for your degree programme, don't worry. The University offers a high-quality Summer Pre-sessional English (EAP) Programme to help you transition smoothly into your studies. Applications for the 2026 intake will open on Monday, 19 January 2026 – mark your calendar!
Course Overview & Entry Requirements
The University of Edinburgh offers two on-campus Summer EAP programmes for 2026: 10-week and 6-week courses. Your choice depends on the gap between your current English score and the direct entry requirement of your degree.
Key Principle:
10-week course: For students whose scores are further from the direct entry requirement. The entry threshold is lower.
6-week course: For students whose scores are closer to the direct entry requirement, for intensive improvement.
Crucial Note: The Pre-sessional entry requirements are directly tied to the specific IELTS or PTE scores stated in your degree offer. You must match your offer's requirement to the correct Pre-sessional entry score in the table below.
Example IELTS Requirements:
A full corresponding table is also available for PTE scores. Please consult RG Abroad’s customer services.
3.Key Application Policies (Must-Read!)
On-campus Only: Only face-to-face, in-person courses are available for Summer 2026.
UKVI Tests Only: You must apply with an IELTS for UKVI (Academic) or PTE Academic UKVI certificate.
No Score Combining or Retakes: Scores from more than one test certificate cannot be combined. IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted.
Accepted Alternative Tests: Recognised language scores from some other institutions (e.g., University of Glasgow) may be accepted. Please verify with official sources.
Dates & Fees
Application Tip: Places are limited. Prepare your documents in advance and submit your application as soon as possible after it opens.
CAS Policy Explained
The University has clear rules regarding CAS issuance, primarily two types:
Single CAS: Covers the Pre-sessional course only. This applies to most students.
Combined CAS: Covers both the Pre-sessional course and the main degree programme. Eligibility for a Combined CAS is highly restrictive:
The only outstanding condition on your degree offer must be the English language requirement.
Students whose degree requires an overall IELTS score of 7.0 are NOT eligible for a Combined CAS.
Students with any other academic conditions (e.g., final transcripts, degree certificate) on their offer are NOT eligible.
If your circumstances change (e.g., you meet other conditions), the University may consider upgrading your Single CAS to a Combined CAS, but only until Friday, 29 May 2026, and only if your offer is updated to unconditional (except for English).
✅ Your Application Checklist
Identify Your Target: Check your degree Offer for the exact direct entry language requirement (IELTS/PTE scores).
Match Your Course: Use the tables above to determine if you qualify for the 10-week or 6-week course based on your current scores.
Prepare Documents: Ensure you have a valid UKVI IELTS or PTE test certificate.
Mark Key Dates: Note that applications open on 19 January 2026 and set reminders for the deadlines.
Understand CAS: Determine which type of CAS you are likely to receive based on your offer conditions to plan your visa timeline.
Confused by the detailed score tables? Unsure about your eligibility for a Combined CAS? Or need details on other accepted language tests? Contact RG Abroad’s customer service now for personalised professional advice and application planning tailored to your situation!