The English language proficiency of newly enrolled students at Bilkent University is determined by a two-stage English Proficiency and Placement Test administered by the English Preparatory Program. As a result of this exam, students whose English level is deemed sufficient are exempted from the English Preparatory Program. Students whose English level is not sufficient to start their studies directly are admitted to the English Preparatory Program starting from the determined level.
English Preparatory Program Levels
The English Preparatory Program consists of five levels:
- Basic Level (Beginner)
- Pre-Intermediate Level (Pre-Intermediate)
- Intermediate Level (Intermediate)
- Intermediate Level (Upper-Intermediate)
- Intermediate Level (Upper-Intermediate)
- Bölüm Ö(Pre-Faculty)
The usual duration of the English Preparatory Program for basic level students is one calendar year (winter and spring semesters and summer semester). Depending on the exam results, students starting from Pre-Intermediate or Intermediate levels can complete the program at the end of the spring semester. Students who start at the Intermediate or Pre-Intermediate level can complete the English Preparatory Program at the end of the winter semester and start their Bölüm program in the spring semester.
Exemption by External Examinations
It is also possible to be exempted from the English Preparatory Program by obtaining sufficient scores from external examinations accepted by Bilkent University. The university accepts IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exams. However, for exemption through external examinations, the conditions specified in Bilkent University's English Proficiency Guidelines through External Examinations must be fulfilled. Detailed information and requirements can be found at http://prep.bilkent.edu.tr/dis-sinavlar-ile-yeterlilik.
Bilkent Üniversity English Preparatory Program aims to provide students with a strong English background that will ensure success in their academic life. The program adopts a comprehensive and systematic approach to improve students' language skills. Students will develop their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in English, as well as their ability to conduct academic research and presentations. In this way, they are equipped to perform successfully academically when they start their studies.