Frequently asked questions

Q : Can I prepare for Cambridge First Certificate?

A: It depends on your level. To be able to pass Cambridge First Certificate (FCE), you have to be at a good Upper Intermediate level in all skills. Very often, students have a better level in one or two skills, for example, after living in the UK for 6 months, many students have good listening ability. However, unless you are equally good at speaking, reading and writing, as well as accurate in your grammar, you will not be able to pass FCE. If you test at Upper Intermediate level, your teacher will advise you about whether you are ready to apply for the FCE exam. If you test at a lower level, it is too soon to prepare for FCE.

Q: Can I do a beginners’ course?

A: At the moment, no. Very few students are true beginners, and when people estimate their own English level, they often guess they are at a lower level than they really are. Our courses are aimed at the most popular levels, Intermediate and Upper Intermediate. We also have courses for Pre-Intermediate or Advanced students, but these groups are often smaller.

Q: Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?

A: If you attend at least 80% of the course, you’ll get a certificate of completion. You’ll also get a written record of your achievement at the end of the course. This can be useful if you take another course later on.

Q: I’m not sure of my level, and I’m worried there might not be a class at the right level for me. What should I do?

A: If you’re really worried about your level and you’re not in Edinburgh, we’ll send you the test. You can do it at home and return it to us for marking. This will give us a good idea of your level, so we can advise you about the right class for you.

If you are already in Edinburgh, we can give you an early test, so that you can consider other options if necessary.

Q: Can I change my course if I get a job?

A: Possibly, but we do not guarantee a refund. When you register for a course, you are occupying a place. This can mean that we turn away another student. We will be as helpful as possible if your circumstances change, but if we cannot give your place to another student, you will not get your money back. This is explained in the Terms and Conditions that you will get when you register.

Q: How many students will be in the class?

A: The maximum is twenty, but classes will often start with around eighteen and go up or down slightly, as adjustments are made for students’ English level. Some classes will be smaller – around fourteen to fifteen students. Larger classes allow us to offer lower prices.

Price and Quality!