Language courses FAQs

We've put together a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with more information about our University Wide Language Programme (UWLP) courses. For any queries not covered in the list below, please contact Salford Languages on +44 (0)161 295 5990 or email uwlp@salford.ac.uk.

Course details and structure

Which languages can I learn on UWLP?

Spanish, French, Italian, German, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and British Sign Language.

When do UWLP classes begin?

All UWLP classes begin the week commencing Monday 19 September 2022 and involve one, 2-hour class each week.

How long does UWLP run for?

UWLP runs for the entire academic year.

Is there a break in-between Christmas and Easter?

Yes, UWLP follows Salford’s academic year calendar and there will be a break for Christmas and Easter.

What is a Right to Study check and why does it have to be carried out?

A Right to Study check is basically a ‘check’ using your passport or immigration documents to confirm that you are eligible to study here in the UK.

As an institution that is a Tier 4 sponsor, the University of Salford has a responsibility to ensure that all its students have immigration permission that allows them to study. This means that we need to keep a copy of the original evidence (passport) that students have the right to study in the UK and of the date on which their leave expires.

Can I learn more than one language?

Yes of course. You will, however, need to complete a separate online application form for each language.

What stage should I start at?

  • Stage 1: Complete beginner or grade D or below at GCSE (or equivalent).
  • Stage 2: Grade A* - C at GCSE (or equivalent) or A1 of the CEFR or a pass at Stage 1.
  • Stage 3: Grade C or below at AS level (or equivalent) or A2 of the CEFR or a pass at Stage 2.
  • Stage 4: Grade A or B at AS Level (or equivalent) or grade D or below at A2 (or equivalent) or B1 of the CEFR or a pass at Stage 3.

What is CEFR?

CEFR stands for the ‘Common European Framework for Reference’, which is an official structure that acts as a guideline for identifying the level of the language you are currently learning. Read more about Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

What do I do if I feel I am in the wrong stage?

During your first UWLP class you will complete an initial placement test. This test will identify your current level in the language, your tutor will then be able to recommend whether you should move to another stage or remain in the same stage you are already in, depending on the test results.

Can I switch to another language?

You may transfer to any other language up to the end of the second week (Friday 7 October 2022). In exceptional circumstances, the transfer from one language to another may be authorised on academic grounds and depending on what experience you already have of learning the language, up to the end of the fourth week of teaching. Authorisation must be given by the Head of UWLP.

Transfers between languages will only be permitted on one occasion. If you request a transfer, you must settle the original fee within the agreed due date before we will transfer your booking.

Are the tutors native speakers of the language they teach? (for example: is the Spanish teacher from Spain?)

Most of our tutors are native speakers of the language they teach. For those tutors who are not native speakers, they all have extensive experience of teaching their language and have acquired relevant degrees.

Can I meet with my tutor one-to-one?

Yes. Each tutor will provide you with their office hours in which you can arrange to meet with them.

Will I be provided with books and materials?

You will be provided with online materials which you are able to print out, but it is expected that students purchase their own copy of the course book, which will be required for most language classes.

Will I be in a class with students from the University of Salford?

Yes, you will be in class both with students and members of staff.

What is the maximum number of people in one class?

Most of our classes have a limit of 30 students.

What do I do if I can’t attend one of my classes?

Please email your tutor directly and also email uwlp@salford.ac.uk informing them of your absence.

You can attend a class which is at a different time to your usual class, but please inform your tutor in advance to let them know you will be attending a different class.

Will there be any field trips?

There are currently no field trips planned for the academic year 2022/2023.

Will my tutor be able to provide me with a reference?

Unfortunately not, as you are not classed as a degree level student on this course, tutors are not able to provide any references for you.

Fees

How much does it cost to study a course on the UWLP?

If you are a member of the general public, the total cost for UWLP is £300.00 – see breakdown below. This includes all classes, examinations, and access to learning materials. You will receive homework, tasks, weekly information, and updates regarding your class either through Blackboard (our Virtual Learning Environment) or via email. You will also have access to the Maxwell Building and the Clifford Whitworth Library which is based on the Peel Park Campus.

  • Externals (members of the public): £300.00
  • Alumni: £200.00
  • Friends & Family of Staff: £200.00
  • Registered Students: £200.00
  • Staff of University of Salford: £200.00

If you find yourself in financial difficulty, you will still be able to attend classes, however, you must email uwlp@salford.ac.uk informing us of your situation. We require some form of evidence, and each situation will be assessed on an individual basis.

Does British Sign Language cost more?

No, it is the same cost as all the other UWLP courses.

Can I pay in instalments?

Unfortunately not. Payment is due in full only at the start of the course.

When do I need to make my payment by?

No later than Friday 30 September 2022.

How do I make my payment?

Please make your payment through our online store.

Can I pay in cash?

We can only accept payments made by debit or credit card.

What should I do if I pay for UWLP and I decide I don’t want to continue after my first lesson?

Please refer to the Terms & Conditions 2022/23 document, which states that you are not entitled to a refund once you have paid for your UWLP course.

Examinations

What are the examinations?

There will be one oral exam and one written exam (your writing and reading skills will be tested during the written exam). Both exams will take place in May 2023 under exam conditions.

Do I need to pay for any examinations?

No, the cost of exams is included in the full UWLP cost.

Is it compulsory for me to take examinations?

No. You do not have to sit any exams should you wish not to. If you would like to receive a certificate at the end of the academic year which will state your language level in relation to the CEFR (Common European Framework for Reference), then you will be required to sit both exams.

Will I receive a qualification at the end of the academic year?

No, you will not receive a qualification. If you sit both exams, you will receive a certificate which will state your language level in relation to the CEFR (Common European Framework for Reference). You will be able to include this official certificate in your records of achievement.

Accessibility

Where will my classroom be?

We try our hardest to ensure all UWLP classes will take place in the Maxwell Building across the eighth and ninth floor. There is a lift with access to both floors alongside a set of stairs. There is also a fully functioning Disabled Toilet on the ninth floor. However, due to our classes being subject to central timetabling, we cannot guarantee these locations.

If you would like to email the UWLP Programme Support Assistant at uwlp@salford.ac.uk to discuss your access requirements, they can make arrangements to ensure your requirements are met.

Is there parking available for me on the Peel Park Campus?

Yes, however, you must have a valid parking session or pay and display ticket on arrival when parking on the University of Salford Campus car parks. Motor vehicles [including motor cycles, motor scooters and mopeds] may be parked at the University only in the official car parks and then only in the spaces marked out for parking.

PayByPhone is the most convenient way to pay for parking. It’s easy, either use the app, do it online or call +44 (0)161 880 0100. Please have the car park location code ready which is available on the signage in each car park. Irwell Place car park is the closest car park to the Maxwell Building.

The location code for Irwell Place car park is: 59323.

Disabled students who are blue badge holders are advised to register their vehicle at Maxwell Reception.  Holders who use a motor vehicle to enable them to travel to and from the University are exempted from any fee. Please note you must display your blue badge clearly on your vehicle at all times. 

Any complaints or queries regarding registration or vehicle parking on University property should be emailed to: estates-supportteam@salford.ac.uk

Do you allow guide dogs in class?

Yes. Please email the UWLP Programme Support Assistant at uwlp@salford.ac.uk to inform her and your tutor that you will be bringing your guide dog.

I have a barrier which affects my learning (i.e. Dyslexia, Mental Health) – will I receive any support?

We suggest you discuss any barriers to learning with your class tutor in the first lessons to decide on the best way to support you in your learning journey.

Contact details

How can I find out further information?

Please contact Salford Languages reception on +44 (0)161 295 5990, or email uwlp@salford.ac.uk

How can I contact my tutor?

All tutors' email addresses and contact numbers are in the UWLP Handbook, which you will receive upon starting your course.

I have a complaint, who can I contact?

We take all complaints seriously and in the event of wanting to place a complaint, please contact the Head of UWLP, Vanessa John (v.i.john@salford.ac.uk) or email uwlp@salford.ac.uk. For the purposes of managing concerns and complaints, UWLP follows the University’s Student Complaints Procedure.