Further Education colleges are generally large, and can therefore offer a wide and varied choice of academic and vocational courses. In today's global community, mastering the world's international language is essential. Whether for business, education or personal interest, effective English communication is the key to success. Many UK colleges have dedicated EFL courses in their own right, and a student should check that if they are studying full time programmes leading to University entry, they will receive the English support they require to support their chosen course of study. Increasingly, pre-sessional English courses are available for students who have the qualifications to directly enter university, but not the necessary English competence.
Many colleges also run summer programmes for individuals.
A Levels are academic studies commonly used as an entry route to British universities. Students generally take them in two or three subjects related to their degree. Two AS Levels are equivalent to one A Level, and most universities accept them in place of a third A Level. Work placement and practice in realistic work environments often support these programmes. The Route to Higher Education Enrolling on a further education course is an ideal way to prepare for a degree course at university.