ESOL
ESOL NQ Higher
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Part time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Edinburgh College is one of the largest year-round providers of English Language courses in Scotland. All College-based ESOL classes are accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.
This course is designed to improve your English language skills to gain entry to university/further study. During this course, you will develop your reading, writing, listening, speaking and independent study skills. You will complete the SQA Higher ESOL qualification as part of your course.
This course includes taught classes, directed self-study and personal tutorial time. This course is bursary-funded, so you will not have to pay course fees and may be eligible for other bursary funding. You will be expected to buy the course materials as specified by your tutor (approximately £70).
More information about ESOL course costs is available on the ESOL Course Fees page.
Please note that these courses are for applicants whose first language is not English.
The average class size is 18 – 20 with a maximum of 23. You must be aged 16 or older to study ESOL courses in college.
Support for students aged 16 and 17
- All 16 and 17-year-olds are given a 24-hour emergency number.
- Information on ‘Keeping yourself safe in Edinburgh’ is provided at induction. A tutorial system is in place for students to discuss progress or any problems with their teacher.
- Students are supervised in class, on class trips/activities, and during work placements.
- Parental consent is required for class trips and work placements. Outside these hours, there is no supervision for those 16 and under.
What you will learn
- English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking in an academic and general English context.
- Academic study and presentation skills.
- SQA Higher ESOL.
How the course is assessed
- You will be assessed through the SQA Higher ESOL exam.
Number of days per week
- 2 days per week (10 hours).
Entry requirements
- You should have a level of English equivalent to IELTS 5.5, SQA National 5 grade B or above or Cambridge First Certificate at grade B or above.
- International students (students from outside the UK without Settled or pre-settled status, excluding asylum seekers, refugees and Humanitarian Protection Status) will need to check visa requirements. Please go to the International section of the website.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- A place in the course depends on an interview and a language-level test.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5 or equivalent (National 5 Grade B).Progression and Articulation Routes
- Further study at Edinburgh College or university.
Career options
- You can gain medical registration in the UK if you are a trained medical professional.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Part time | 24/08/26 |
