If you plan to study at a UK university, a strong command of English is essential. Your degree will be taught in English, and it will be the common language for interacting with professors and fellow students. Additionally, proficiency in English will bring numerous benefits beyond academia, influencing your social life and future career prospects. Read on to explore why English is crucial for your UK university experience and professional growth.
Why Do You Need English to Study in the UK?
Studying abroad offers an excellent opportunity to enhance your language skills, but UK universities require proof of English proficiency before admission. If English is not your first language, you must submit a recognized English language test or qualification.
The most widely accepted test is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic, which evaluates English skills in four key areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Candidates receive individual scores from 1 to 9 for each section, as well as an overall score.
For instance, Newcastle University typically requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill area. However, specific course requirements may vary. To check the exact English language requirements for your chosen degree, visit the online course profile and refer to the ‘Entry Requirements’ section.
In addition to IELTS, UK universities also accept other tests such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE). For further details, explore the university’s English Language Requirements page.
English is the Business Language of the World
English is the most widely spoken language globally, with over 1.5 billion people using it as their first or second language. As a lingua franca, English is dominant in fields such as business, science, entertainment, and diplomacy. Many multinational corporations use English as their official working language.
If you are pursuing a business-related degree, proficiency in English will be indispensable for your career. Being able to speak, read, and write fluently in English enhances your ability to communicate with colleagues, negotiate deals, and engage in international markets.
Moreover, English is the most commonly used language on the internet, comprising 52% of global web content. Careers in digital marketing, web development, and e-commerce particularly benefit from strong English skills, making English fluency a valuable asset.
Knowledge of English Enhances Your Resumé
Being multilingual is a highly desirable trait in today’s job market, and English proficiency significantly enhances your resumé (CV). It prepares you for a global workforce, equipping you with the ability to collaborate with international colleagues and clients.
If you plan to work in the UK after graduation, English proficiency is vital. To stay in the UK for employment, you will need to apply for a Graduate Visa, which allows you to work or seek employment for two years after graduation (three years for PhD graduates).
For long-term employment, you may transition to a Skilled Worker Visa, which also requires proof of English proficiency. Strong English skills will therefore increase your chances of securing work opportunities in the UK.
Speaking English Can Help You Make Friends at University
University life is not just about academics—it is also about social connections. As an international student in the UK, speaking English confidently will help you form friendships and integrate smoothly into student life.
Whether in academic discussions, social gatherings, or everyday interactions like shopping and commuting, English fluency will help you navigate various situations with ease. This will enrich your overall university experience and create lasting connections with people from diverse backgrounds.
Conclusion
Mastering English is fundamental to succeeding in a UK university and advancing in a global career. It not only facilitates academic learning but also enhances employment opportunities, fosters social integration, and provides lifelong advantages in the international job market. By taking advantage of university-provided language support programs, students can continue improving their English skills while enjoying a fulfilling educational and social experience in the UK.
