How to Improve your English Language skills

Whilst the university does not have a proofreading service, there are departments that can help you to improve your English Language skills.

English Language Support Programme (ELSP)

The university has an excellent English language Support Programme (ELSP). ELSP provides support in all aspects of academic English at no additional charge.

The programme is available to all Surrey students registered on undergraduate or postgraduate programmes. It is particularly valuable to students who speak English as an additional language, but native speakers are also welcome. The purpose of ELSP is to provide the tailored English Language support you need during your time at Surrey.

Students who enrol in classes can have one-to-one tutorials with specialist tutors in English for academic purposes. The courses include Assignment Writing, Grammar for Academic Writing and English for Employability. A list of courses on offer and further information is available here

Language and Culture Exchange Scheme (LACES) Network

Another option to support your English Language studies is to join the Language and Culture Exchange Scheme (LACES). You can find a language partner who speaks the language you want to learn or improve. In return you can help them practise your first language. You will have the benefit of speaking your chosen language with a native speaker, and at the same time learning all about their culture.

Language Study Area and Resources

Students can use the language learning resources area on the 2nd floor of the Library and Learning Centre. There is specialist language software to help with pronunciation, grammar and academic study skills. Furthermore, there is a shelf marked English for Academic Writing and English for Academic Study.

Academic Skills and Development (ASD)

The Learning Development zone is situated on level one of the Library. In this dedicated space the Academic Skills and Development and Maths and Statistics Advice teams provide advice and guidance for a wide range of topics including:

Literature searching Dissertation and extended projects

Critical thinking skills Revision and exam techniques

General numeracy skills Statistical analysis

Throughout the year they offer face-to-face advice in form of drop-in sessions, learning cafes and appointments to all students. During term time they also run a workshop programme.

They have available a comprehensive suite of online resources on MySurrey

Disability and Neuroinclusion

This is a confidential support service for students with a disability including dyslexia, dyspraxia and autistic spectrum disorders. You can contact them for individual learning support including literacy. They provide one-to-one study skills and mentoring sessions to eligible students.

Other Useful Resources

Clarity English Practical Writing See ‘Job applications: your online profile’

University of Surrey Online grammar resources

Englishgrammar.org Basic grammar and punctuation

Finally

Don’t forget we are always happy to help you with every aspect of your career planning and development, wherever you are in your journey. If you are unclear about where to start or what to focus on first, just make an appointment with a Careers Consultant via Surrey Pathfinder and we can help you develop a plan for moving forward.

Visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion careers resources to find out more about diversity initiatives, employer perspectives and support at Surrey.

If you would like more information, visit MySurrey Help to find answers to the most common questions and details on how to ask us a question if you require more support.