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Are you interested in developing your level of English to cope with university study?

Whether or not English is your first language, this site aims to prepare you for study by introducing you to academic English. You will also hear from Open University students who have developed the language skills and confidence to make a success of their courses.

Explore the sections of this site, step by step, or in any order, depending on your needs. First check our guidance for how to save your progress over several online sessions.

Please remember: if it is over three years since your last visit to this website, your record of progress will no longer be available. You will have to sign in to create a new record.


Your starting point Your starting point

Reflect on your language and study skills
English and OU study English and OU study

Find out about academic English
Assess your language skills Assess your language skills

Check your level of English and explore sample OU materials
Coping with language challenges Coping with language challenges

Use the stories of OU students to think about your own language needs
Support for OU study Support for OU study

Who can help with your language and study needs
Next steps Next steps

Online resources to improve your language and study skills