Key information
- Only accredited schools. Shortlist quality-assured providers in our verified directory. Browse accredited schools.
- Compare real study time. Ask for weekly contact hours (breaks excluded) so you compare like for like.
- Choose the right course. General/Intensive, IELTS/Cambridge, Business or Evening/Weekend — pick what fits your goal.
- Need accommodation? Book a homestay with London Homestays — an excellent way to improve your English in a safe, comfortable living environment. Find a homestay.
- Want halls-style living? Book student residence with UK Student Residences — independence and social spaces. See student residences.
- Visas (signposting only). Up to 6 months: Standard Visitor. 6–11 months (English only): Short-term study (English language). Check GOV.UK and British Council/English UK. This is general information, not immigration advice.
Why accreditation matters
Accreditation UK (run by the British Council with English UK) is the UK’s quality-assurance scheme for English language providers. Centres are inspected for teaching, student welfare and safeguarding, resources and facilities, management, and the accuracy of publicity, with inspection summaries published so you can see where a centre is strong and where it was asked to improve.
Accredited centres are monitored on an ongoing cycle, and where accommodation is offered (including homestays) it is inspected against scheme requirements. Use accreditation as your baseline, then compare course content, weekly contact hours (excluding breaks) and timetables to choose the best fit.
Our editorial highlights (how to use them)
We showcase three tiers of editorial highlights based on our 15+ years of experience in the UK English-language sector. These are our opinions, not rankings or guarantees. Always check a school’s Accreditation UK status and weekly contact hours (excluding breaks) before you book.
Platinum Partners — our top editorial picks
In our view, these are the best of the best and we are especially confident recommending them. They typically offer a wide choice of courses, responsive student support and strong overall student feedback. Use Platinum listings as a smart starting point for your shortlist.
Gold Partners — highly recommended
Excellent choices in our judgement. Gold schools usually provide a broad course offer and reliable support, and they are well worth considering alongside Platinum options, especially for specific dates or locations.
Recommended (Silver) — solid, trusted options
Accredited providers we’re comfortable recommending. They meet the standards required to appear on our site and can be the right fit when their timetable, area or specialist course matches your needs.
Accommodation: homestay or student residence?
Homestay (London Homestays)
Independent living with the added benefit of a local host. You have your own private bedroom and a key to come and go as you please, with friendly support and local knowledge from your host when you want it. Homestay is excellent value: bills and Wi-Fi are included, with self-catering, breakfast only or half board options. We match you with a host that fits your request and has good transport links to your school.
Good for
- Independent living plus local insight when needed
- Everyday English in real situations
- Private bedroom and a calm study space
- Value for money with bills included
Ready to book? Find a homestay
Student residence (UK Student Residences)
Purpose-built student buildings offering single rooms (often en suite) with private or shared kitchens, study areas, common rooms and secure entry, typically in central locations. The experience is fully independent, with a strong social vibe. Note: residences are usually at a higher price point than homestays.
Good for
- Maximum independence and flexible mealtimes
- Modern facilities and built-in social spaces
- Central locations close to schools and transport
- Choosing between private en suite or other room types (building dependent)
Explore options: see student residences
Not sure which to choose?
Pick the lifestyle you prefer first — homestay for independent living with extra support and strong value, or residence for single-room privacy and a social building — then select the course that fits your goals.
Understand course intensity and contact hours
Schools sometimes advertise “lessons” of 45–60 minutes. To compare fairly, ask for weekly contact hours (excluding breaks).
Typical intensities
- Part-time (6–9 hours/week): maintain your English alongside work or study.
- Standard (around 15 hours/week): a balanced pace with time for self-study.
- Intensive (around 21–25 hours/week): faster progress; may include skills workshops.
- Super-intensive (30+ hours/week): full immersion; sometimes includes one to one.
Match course type to your goal
- General English: confidence across speaking, listening, reading and writing; level-based progression (A1–C2).
- Exam preparation (IELTS/Cambridge/OET): strategies, timing and practice tests; choose this if you need a defined score or date.
- English for specific purposes: Business, Academic, Healthcare, Legal, Aviation — targeted language and scenarios.
- Foundation/Pre-sessional: university pathway programmes with academic skills. Requirements vary by university; check your offer conditions.
Location strategy: costs, commutes and campus feel
Location shapes your timetable, commute and social life.
- London: unrivalled culture and transport; fast paced and highly international.
- Regional cities (e.g., Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds): strong student communities and, in many areas, shorter commutes.
- Historic/academic hubs (Oxford, Cambridge, York, Bath, Chester): immersive study settings and a collegiate feel.
- Coastal towns (Brighton, Bournemouth): lively in summer; quieter programmes off-season.
Think about neighbourhood vibe, travel time from accommodation to class, and what you’ll do outside lessons. Generally, London is the most exciting option with the widest variety of activities outside of school; however, it is often the most expensive and, as the city is the largest, you will likely have the longest commute to your school.
Using our accredited schools directory
Browse every Accreditation UK centre in one place. Use the search box to find schools by name or location, and course-type filters to highlight options that focus on General English, IELTS, Cambridge exams, junior courses and more. Browse accredited schools.
Each listing signposts to inspection information so you can check quality before you enquire.
Red flags to avoid
Be cautious if you see: no physical address, unclear refund terms, pressure to pay everything immediately, claims of “guaranteed visa success”, lessons in flats or hotels, or vague timetables and contact hours. Choose accredited centres and read terms carefully.
A simple decision process
- Define your goal (general improvement, exam score, university pathway).
- Create a shortlist using our filters and editorial highlights.
- Decide where to live: book homestay or student residence with us, then firm up your course dates.
- Ask each school the same questions: weekly contact hours, timetable, sample week, and the typical commute from accommodation.
- Check your visa route on GOV.UK (and British Council/English UK resources). This is general information, not immigration advice.
- Book securely and keep written confirmation of course details and terms.
After booking: make the most of it
Complete the placement test carefully, set clear learning goals, explore your neighbourhood in advance, and join school groups to meet classmates. Small daily habits (reading, podcasts, short speaking practice) compound quickly. If you are staying in a homestay, make an effort to speak with your host. It is easy to stay in your room and relax, but if you want to improve your English, a little effort to start a conversation goes a long way.
FAQs
How do I verify a school’s accreditation?
Use our directory to find accredited centres and follow the links to Accreditation UK inspection information. Accreditation is the recognised quality baseline.
Should I book accommodation through the school?
We recommend arranging accommodation with us first. Book homestay with London Homestays for one point of contact and a neighbourhood you’ll enjoy, or choose student residence with UK Student Residences for independence and social spaces.
Homestay or student residence — which is right for me?
Choose homestay for daily conversation, local insight and meal options. Choose student residence if you want a halls-style set-up with shared kitchens and communal areas. Many students start in homestay for a soft landing, then move to residence once settled — we can help with either route.
What’s the difference between IELTS and Cambridge?
Take IELTS if you need a specific university or visa score. Cambridge (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) provides a lasting certificate valued by many employers. Check your institution’s exact requirements.
Can I work while studying English in the UK?
The Standard Visitor (up to 6 months) and Short-term study (English language) (6–11 months) routes do not permit work. Always check GOV.UK for current rules.
What if I’m placed at the wrong level?
Tell the academic team early. Accredited schools have placement and review processes and can discuss a level change if appropriate.
How many hours should I study each week?
If you’re balancing work or sightseeing, Standard (around 15 hours) keeps steady progress. Choose Intensive (around 21–25 hours) or above for faster progress — always compare contact hours excluding breaks.
