Academic English differs significantly from general English in both style and purpose. While general English focuses on everyday communication — like casual conversation, travel phrases, or social interaction — academic English is designed for the structured, formal communication expected in university settings. It includes specific vocabulary, grammar, and formats used in academic writing, lectures, and scholarly discussions. For students aiming to succeed in higher education, mastering academic English is not optional — it’s foundational.

At UKSE, our Academic English course covers core skills like essay writing, note-taking during lectures, referencing sources correctly (APA, MLA, Harvard), summarising academic texts, and developing a formal tone. Students also learn how to analyse arguments critically, take part in academic discussions, and structure written work clearly and logically. Activities include mock seminar discussions, peer-reviewed essay drafts, and guided research tasks using academic journals.

For example, one assignment involves evaluating two opposing articles and writing a critical response, citing evidence and using appropriate referencing. Another task has students prepare and deliver a short academic presentation based on a research question. These hands-on tasks mirror what is expected in university courses, giving students a real academic advantage. By the end of the program, learners not only write better but also think more critically — a key skill for university success anywhere in the world.