Refresher course

If you score in the low category on the VU English language proficiency test, then you will be required to take an English refresher course. The refresher course will help you improve your language skills.

Frequently asked questions

The English refresher course consists of six sessions of two hours each.
You will get your score a couple of weeks after taking the test. If you score in the low category, you will receive an email instructing you to enrol in the refresher course through Canvas. You can choose between a number of start dates and times. You will receive confirmation once you have registered.

The refresher course covers the following:

  • text structure
  • formality and style
  • spelling and punctuation
  •  grammar and vocabulary
  • correspondence (emails/letters)

The five sessions/modules involve theory as well as practice exercises completed individually and in pairs and/or small groups; with a final test in session six. You will also have some self-study to do before each session/module in order to prepare for the classes. Please note that this refresher course does not focus on learning how to write papers or academic texts; these are skills you will work on during your other studies.

The theory is discussed in class and you will be asked to complete assignments alone or in groups. There will be one or several assignments to complete outside of class.
You will round off the course by taking a test during the final session. This test covers topics covered during the course. You must attend at least five of the six classes to complete the course. In the sixth and last class, which includes the final test, attendance is mandatory. 

 Independent study

There are a wide variety of options open to you if you want to work on your language proficiency on your own. We have compiled some options for you here. This list is obviously not exhaustive.