AIC Test of English /
Pre-Sessional
English Programme

Prepare for the AIC test of English, a trusted alternative to IELTS, with the accredited Pre-Sessional English programme at LSI London. Delivered in partnership with Aryam International College (AIC)!

Students studying
Study in the UK without IELTS with the AIC Test of English
Direct route into degree-level study in the UK
Authorised Delivery Centre

For the accredited PSE course and the official AIC Test of English awarded by Aryam International College (AIC)

What is The AIC Test of English?

The AIC Test of English is an academic English proficiency test used for university admission. It assesses four core skills required for higher education success:

Reading

Reading

Academic text analysis and comprehension
Writing

Writing

Structured argument development and academic clarity
Listening

Listening

Understanding academic lectures and formal conversations
Speaking

Speaking

Fluency, pronunciation and communication skills
The full test takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Where is the AIC Test of English accepted in the UK?

Students studying together

What is the Pre-Sessional English Programme?

The Pre-Sessional English programme is an intensive university English preparation course in London designed for international students’ progressing to undergraduate or postgraduate study in the UK.

Unlike general English courses, this programme focuses on:

  • Academic writing conventions
  • Critical reading strategies
  • Lecture note-taking skills
  • Seminar participation
  • Exam preparation techniques
  • Targeted preparation for the AIC Test of English

The curriculum mirrors the structure of the AIC Test, ensuring focused and exam-aligned preparation.

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Students in lecture hall

A Flexible Pathway

  • Students who already have an English test score but are slightly below the requirement can take a short course to bridge the gap.
  • Students without a test can complete their internal placement test to assess their level and receive a tailored study plan.
  • If a student meets the required level in the test, they can progress directly without taking the course.
  • The AIC Test of English can be used both as the entry assessment and final certification, meaning no additional external exams (such as IELTS) are required.
  • The test is free for students enrolled in the programme, and £120 if taken as a standalone test.
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Study Formats Available

The Pre-Sessional English programme is available in flexible formats allowing international students to begin their English language pathway in alignment with visa timelines and university start dates.

On-campus study in London, UK

Online study

Blended learning model

Year-round registration

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Frequently Asked Questions

Students choose the AIC Test of English pathway because it offers:

  • A recognised English proficiency certificate,
  • Accepted by AIC partner universities,
  • Integrated into a Pre-Sessional English programme,
  • No need for separate IELTS registration,
  • A streamlined university admissions process.

For students searching for an IELTS alternative in London or an English test for UK university admission, this pathway provides a practical and reliable solution.

The Pre‑Sessional English (PSE) programme at LSI London helps students build the academic English skills needed for university study in the UK and for the AIC Test of English. Students improve their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills while developing stronger academic vocabulary and grammar. The course also prepares students for the test format, teaches effective time‑management, and includes full‑length practice exams. Successful students receive a certificate recognised by Aryam International College partner institutions, which can help meet English language entry requirements for UK degree programmes.

The AIC Test of English is a practical English qualification for students planning to study in the UK. It is accepted by Aryam International College partner universities and is built into the Pre‑Sessional English course at LSI London, so there is no need to take external exams such as IELTS. This makes the university application process simpler and more efficient. For students looking for a UK‑based IELTS alternative, the AIC Test of English offers a clear and supportive pathway to higher education.

To join the Pre‑Sessional English programme at LSI London, students must be at least 17 years old, have completed or be close to completing secondary education, and have a basic level of English. These requirements ensure students are ready for academic English study and exam preparation in the UK.

The Pre‑Sessional English programme in London runs from Monday to Friday at LSI London. Classes take place from 9:15 AM to 10:55 AM and from 11:20 AM to 1:00 PM each day. The course includes 20 lessons per week, which equals around 16.7 hours of teacher‑led instruction. This schedule supports steady progress in academic English and focused preparation for the AIC Test of English.

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Begin your journey towards university success in the UK!

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