Leicester Presessional English Test FAQs

The English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) will be delivering Module D and Module E in online mode in addition to on campus in Summer 2024. The online course gives more flexibility in entry requirements so that a wider range of test results can accepted for admission purposes.

The list of acceptable tests and scores can be viewed on our Entry levels page. The test or exam must have been taken within the last two years.

In addition, the ELTU offers an internal Leicester Presessional English Test (LPET) to allow students to demonstrate their English level. These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are intended to provide more information and some guidance about this internal test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this test available to?

The test is only available to conditional offer holders for summer presessional courses who still need to take a test to meet the language conditions of their offer. Tests will not be given to students without a presessional offer, with an unconditional offer or with an offer for a presessional course taking place at a later term than summer.

How much does the test cost?

The test costs £60, which is payable online.

How do I book a test?

Please email English.test@le.ac.uk with the student number on your offer letter and further instructions will be provided.

What happens after I book the test?

Within three working days, you will be sent further instructions about taking the test. You will be invited to attend a zoom test session which will lasts approximately three hours. 

Can you tell me more about the test?

The reading, writing and listening parts are taken online and take about 165 minutes in total. The reading test takes 75 minutes, the writing 30 minutes and the listening 60 minutes. The online test can be taken in any location with suitable internet access. Speaking skills are assessed by a video interview with one of our tutors lasting about 15 minutes. At the start of the speaking test, you will be asked to prove your identity, by showing a passport or identity card for example. For more information on the LPET, including a useful PowerPoint presentation, and to view sample questions, please check the Password website.

What are the minimum IT systems requirements to take the online test?

You must have access to a computer or laptop with Internet Explorer 7 or above and a good internet connection (better than 0.3 Mbps). You should also have access to headphones.

What happens after I take the test?

The test will be marked by ELTU staff and if you meet the appropriate level for your presessional course, you will be sent an unconditional offer within five working days. The results of the test will only be used for University of Leicester admissions purposes and neither detailed results nor feedback will be made available to the test taker.

Can I use the results of this test for admission onto an on campus presessional course?

No, the LPET is aimed at students who have an offer for online presessional.

Students who intend to take the on campus course should take a secure English language test so they can apply for a student visa.

How long is the test result valid for?

An offer for a presessional course can be deferred for a maximum of one year.

How many times can I take the test?

The Leicester Presessional English Test can only be taken once in a twelve month period.

Useful email addresses

• Admissions Office: pspadmissions@le.ac.uk
• ELTU Testing Team: English.test@le.ac.uk