INFORMATION GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Intensive English Programme
IEP Programme 2015
1. Introduction
1.1 Welcome
Welcome to the Intensive English Programme courses (IEP) for international students. We hope you will
enjoy learning English with us and to take advantage of all that Stellenbosch University and the town of
Stellenbosch have to offer.
1.2 Blocks and levels
The IEP courses are offered over a 7-week period, which we refer to as blocks. The courses cater for
different levels of language proficiency:
a Pre-Intermediate level, Intermediate level, Upper-Intermediate level and Advanced level.


At the discretion of the Language Centre, we might offer Beginner and Elementary levels, if there is a
demand.
All courses are offered only when there is a minimum of six students per level/course (at the discretion
of the Language Centre). Therefore, should the number of students be fewer than six (6), courses may
be cancelled. In such cases students will receive written notification (email) within five (5) days after
the application deadline (see 2. Time-table). It may be necessary at times to combine two levels in
order to run a course.
1.3 Acceptance at faculties
Students wishing to apply for either undergraduate or postgraduate studies must have an excellent
command of writing, reading comprehension, listening and speaking at an advanced level. Therefore, only
students who have successfully completed the Advanced level IEP course may be permitted to apply for
mainstream courses. These prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students may also be required to
satisfy additional criteria including the submission of either a TOEFL or IELTS (Academic) score. Therefore,
students are strongly advised to contact the respective faculties and/or departments at Stellenbosch
University (SU). Completion of the Advanced level IEP course does NOT guarantee acceptance into any
faculty or department at SU.
1.4 English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme
The Language Centre also presents the EAP Programme which students follow after successful completion of
the IEP Advanced level or if a student was accepted by a department or faculty to study towards a degree.
This programme support students to further develop their English language skills. This is highly
recommended to ensure academic success. Students may apply to study one or two modules offered in the
English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme. These courses can be completed concurrently with
mainstream modules. In some cases IEP Advanced level students may be recommended to follow the EAP
Programme in order to continue with their Postgraduate studies.
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EAP Speaking & Language 60410 114 & 144 (3 ECTs)
This is a semester course with two contact hours of class per week. The main areas covered are: presentation
skills, interactive speaking skills and a review of grammar. Students are encouraged to use the opportunity to
improve their fluency, vocabulary and use of English grammar. This EAP course focuses on speaking and
language in an academic context.
EAP Reading and Writing 60410 124 & 154 (3 ECTs)
This is a semester course with two contact hours of class per week. Apart from learning useful academic
phrases and typical academic constructions, students also learn about the structure of an academic text,
academic writing norms, cohesion and some vocabulary and language. This EAP course focuses on writing
and reading in an academic context, but language/grammar problems are addressed when they surface.
2. Timetable
IEP courses start in February, which is the beginning of the Stellenbosch University’s academic year.
Therefore, should you wish to apply to study in the IEP, your completed application MUST be received by
the Postgraduate and International Office (PGIO), before the application deadline. Please refer to the table
below.
7 weeks
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
Application Deadline
19 December 2014
30 January 2015
31 March 2015
31 May 2015
31 July 2015
30 September 2015
Start Date
2 February - 20 March
30 March - 15 May
25 May - 10 July
20 July - 4 September
14 September - 30 October
2 November - 18 December
Please take note of the following:
1.
Students should plan their budgets accordingly as there are instances where courses may have to be repeated, for
example, in case of prolonged illness, poor attendance, or failure of a course. Students are advised to plan for at
least one additional block should any of the above-mentioned occur.
2.
Non-registered students will not be permitted to take up their seats in class.
3. Course times and Cost
Duration:
Frequency:
Levels:
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7 weeks
Every Monday – Friday from 08h30 – 12h30 AND 2 days of 1.5 hours afternoon classes
Pre-Intermediate level
Intermediate level
Upper-Intermediate level
Advanced level
All levels are offered in each of the seven blocks, but only if there is a minimum of six students at these
levels.
The cost of each course/level is approximately R 7835.00. This, however, is subject to change should the
University deem it necessary. The cost of tuition includes a prescribed textbook and all the required notes.
Please note that there is an additional levy, the International Registration Fee, which is administered by the
Postgraduate and International Office.
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4. Course Information
Name of programme
Number of lessons per
week
Compulsory
Expected outcomes
Assessment methods
Summary of module
content
Text books &
prescribed readings
Intensive English Programme
Five 3.5 contact sessions per week over a 7-week period AND two afternoon classes of
1.5 hours each.
IEP courses are mandatory for all international degree-seeking students who are not in
possession of proof of language proficiency; IELTS (Academic), TOEFL, PTE (Academic) or
Cambridge CAE, or CPE.
(Refer to Table 4.1 below for minimum accepted test scores.)
After completion of modules/courses in the Intensive English Programme, students
should be able to demonstrate language ability in the four language skills appropriate to
the level:
 write effective texts using acceptable grammar and lexical resources for the level
according to the Common European Framework (CEF);
 use appropriate lexical resources and grammar to convey precise meaning in spoken
discourse;
 comprehend both discrete items and the gist of spoken discourse; and
 use correct pronunciation (intonation, stress and rhythm)
Students will be assessed on a continuous basis by using classroom tasks, homework
assignments as well as scheduled tests and formal examinations.
An integrated approach incorporating all four language skills will be adopted. However, a
specific language skill may be emphasised more than others in a specific module or level.
A core text as well as additional material will be distributed in class to each student.
Students are expected to make use of the materials while in class as well as do self-study
outside of class. A minimum of two hours of self-study per day is expected.
The table below shows the English language requirements at Stellenbosch University.
English Language Requirements
CEF Level
Cambridge
ESOL
IELTS
Band
TOEFL
CBT
BULATS
PTE
General
9
120
300
100
Max. Possible
score
TOEFL
iBT
PTE
Academic
No language
tuition required
C2
Proficient
CPE
8-9
96 - 110
243 - 270
90 - 100
Level 5
85+
Language tuition
required**
C1
CAE
6.5 - 7.5
79 - 95
213 - 240
75 - 89
Level 4
76 - 84
The minimum English language proficiency requirements are:
 6.5 IELTS band
 550 TOEFL paper based
 79 TOEFL iBT
 213 TOEFL CBT
**All prospective students who are unable to submit IELTS or TOEFL or has a recent IELTS score of LESS
than 7.5, must take an English language proficiency test at the Language Centre to determine their
language proficiency prior to registration.
Students with English as their mother tongue language are exempted from providing IELTS or TOEFL
scores.
The Postgraduate and International Office and/or Academic Departments reserve the right to refer a
student for language testing should there be any doubt about their English language proficiency.
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5. Application and registration procedures for IEP courses
FROM OUTSIDE SOUTH AFRICA
STEP 1
Open the on-line testing document below, do the two on-line tests and send us your scores or contact
Nawaal ([email protected]) who will mail you the on-line test links.
STEP 2
Download and complete the IEP Application Form below.
STEP 3
Mail your completed application form, with all the required documentations as well as your on-line test
scores to [email protected]. If you have recent IELTS or TOEFL scores please mail us the proof as this will
help with accurate placement. We use these scores to recommend a level for you in our IEP programme.
STEP 4
Upon receiving your application form and the required documentations, we will process your application and
issue your letter of admission for your study visa application.
STEP 5
When you arrive in South Africa, first report at the PGIO then follow the steps below.
WHEN YOU ARE IN SOUTH AFRICA
STEP 1
Make an appointment at the Language Centre to write your 3.5 hour Full Placement Test.
Contact the office manager, Nawaal at:
7 Bosman Street, Stellenbosch
021 808 2905
[email protected]
STEP 2
Write your Full Placement Test on the appointed day. Your English language Assessment Results will be
forwarded to you and the PGIO within 48 hours. You will then be able to register for the next IEP block.
All courses are offered only when there is a minimum of six students per level/course (at the discretion of the
Language Centre). Therefore, should the number of students be fewer than six, courses may not be offered. In such
cases students will receive written notification (email) within five days after the application deadline. It may be
necessary at times to combine two levels in order to run a course.
STEP 3
On the first day of the IEP class, you must report to Room 354 of the Arts Building and bring with you your
Proof of Acceptance/Admission letter.
6. Our responsibilities are:
 to encourage you to speak to your heart’s content, laugh hilariously, reflect on what you have
learned and engage with interesting people from around the world;
 to make sure that we are on time and well prepared for every lesson;
 to endeavour to make each lesson interesting and relevant to you;
 to help you with any problems you may have on campus. If we cannot help you, we will try to find
someone who can;
 to provide you with continuous support and feedback in a timely manner (as to your progress in the
course); and
 to help you obtain learning resources and seize learning opportunities both in and outside of class.
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7. Your responsibilities:
7.1 Successful language students:
 set realistic goals;
 set language goals beyond those of class assignments;
 participate in class and ask for help when needed;
 work well individually as well as in groups;
 take the initiative to meet fellow students and engage in meaningful discussion;
 manage time well enough to do assignments on time;
 use strategies to improve vocabulary;
 are aware of the complexity of the language learning task;
 attend ALL classes and do more than the minimum of what is expected of them; and
 ask for help when it is needed.
7.2 Language Policy
Everyone in the IEP shares the responsibility for English language learning. Students and instructors will
respect each other and try to speak only English while on the university campus. You will learn better and
faster by taking risks and learning from your mistakes. Students who disrespect this policy will receive a
warning, and those who continue to interfere with the progress of others may be asked to leave the
programme.
Short exchanges in languages other than English, for the purposes of furthering English language learning
only, are allowed.
7.3 Homework
During a seven-week course, you will have homework. Homework assignments are one of the ways in
which IEP instructors can extend your learning outside of class hours. Your homework also provides
useful information for instructors to tailor their lessons to meet your needs and to assess your progress.
Students are responsible for their own homework. If a student is absent, she/he is responsible for finding
out what work was assigned and getting copies of it. The effort a student puts into doing homework and
assignments will be reflected in the final assessment. If you are struggling with your studies and you are
considering hiring a private tutor, make an appointment to speak with your instructor who will be happy
to guide you in the right direction
7.4 Attendance Policy
One hundred percent (100%) attendance is required for every class. Regardless of the reason, if you are
not in class, you will be marked absent.
7.5 Absences
If you are absent for two (2) consecutive days or more, you must submit a valid reason.
This must be confirmed by a medical certificate, or a reason for compassionate leave. Documentation
must be given to the course presenter within three days of your absence. Medical appointments, going
to the Department of Home Affairs, or to any other none emergency is not a valid excuse for
absenteeism. If you are absent on the day of a scheduled assessment you will receive a mark of ‘0’ for
that assessment. Supplementary assessments are at the discretion of the IEP instructor. If you are absent
for more than five (5) days, you will receive an ‘Incomplete’ and will have to repeat the course, and pass
it, before you can be considered for promotion to the next level. You will also have to pay the full course
fee. In addition, your instructor, through the course coordinator is obliged to report all absenteeism to
the PGIO. They in turn are obliged to inform the Department of Home Affairs. The Department of Home
Affairs has the right to revoke your study permit at any time due to poor attendance and/or performance
in a course.
7.6 Punctuality
Be punctual for ALL classes both at the start of the day and after tea break. Tardiness is disrespectful to
instructors and fellow-students, so please be on time. If you are going to be late for class, notify the
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Office Managers at the Language and Communication Development office, Language Centre on 021 8082905. They will notify your instructor.
7.7 Refunds
NO REFUND OF ANY SORT WILL BE GIVEN TO STUDENTS WHO WITHDRAW FROM THE COURSE DUE TO
ILLNESS, NON-ATTENDANCE OR ANY OTHER REASON.
8. Assessment
8.1 Placement
Although every effort is made to place students at the appropriate level of language proficiency,
adjustments will be made if both the instructor and the course coordinator believe it is in the best
interest of the student and class. Adjustments will be made by the end of the first week of class in each
Block.
8.2 Report on attendance and progress
After each seven-week course, a detailed report about your attendance and progress in the course will
be given to you.
The course mark that you receive is derived from tests, tasks both in class and those set as homework,
which may be in the form of an oral, a written assignment, a listening exercise, a reading comprehension
or a combination of the above-mentioned.
Attendance and class participation also factors in your final mark.
8.3 Pass or fail
In the event that you do not pass a course, you will have a maximum of three opportunities to repeat a
course. Should you fail to meet the requirement again, you will be asked to leave the IEP and your
Study Permit at Stellenbosch University may be revoked which means you might have to return to your
country of origin.
8.4 Number and weighting of IEP assessments
Your mark is not a mathematical average but is based on weightings in the various criteria (speaking,
reading, listening and writing). This will be explained during orientation.
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Student Contract
I __________________________________, student number _______________________ have read the
terms and conditions of the IEP course, or appointed someone to do so on my behalf. I fully understand the
contents of the Information Guide for International Students, and agree to its terms and conditions as
specified.
I promise to conduct myself in a professional manner for the period that I am a registered student in the
Intensive English Programme. I also promise not to engage in any activity that can be considered disruptive
or disrespectful to my classmates and staff.
I take full responsibility for my actions and if I am found guilty of any indiscretion, I will hold neither my
teacher nor the Language Centre responsible.
_____________________________
Student’s Signature
______________________________
Course coordinator’s Signature
_____________________________
IEP Instructor’s Signature
_____________________________
Date
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APPLICATION FOR INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAMME (IEP) COURSES
2015
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY OR COMPLETE ELECTRONICALLY
TITLE
SURNAME/LAST NAME
INITIALS
DATE OF BIRTH
(DD/MM/YYYY)
The completed application must be send to [email protected] and include the following items:

Completion of this form.

A copy of your IELTS report (Academic) or TOEFL report, PTE report (Academic) or Cambridge CAE report.
If you are in possession of any of these documents.
A copy of the identification pages of your passport.


An official Academic Transcript (please attach English translations if the documents are not in English or
Dutch).

Curriculum Vitae.

Proof of medical insurance; must include the following:
 Details of membership (independent member or dependent on parents/guardian)
 Declaration that the cover will be valid for the period spent outside home country
 Short summary of medical cover provided
**For assistance with medical insurance, contact Josephine Dzama at the PGIO ([email protected])
Further details concerning minimum entry requirements to Stellenbosch University can be found on the
Stellenbosch University’s Postgraduate and International Office website www.sun.ac.za/international and
Faculty and Departmental websites. These should be examined as they may require prospective international
students to have additional prerequisites which may include additional language requirements.
Tick (√) the following statements as they apply to you.
 I intend studying towards a degree at Stellenbosch University after completing an English course or
courses.
 I only intend to study English in the Intensive English Programme (IEP).
NB! ALL documentation including your application MUST be received before the closing deadline. Late
applications will NOT be accepted regardless of the circumstances.
International Office: Email: [email protected] (www.sun.ac.za/international)
Language and Communication Development, Language Centre [email protected]
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1. BIOGRAPHICAL PARTICULARS OF APPLICANT
Surname: .…………………..........................……...............................
Initials: …………………………………….……………..
First names: ………………………………………………………………………….
Title: ……………………………….
Marital Status: …………………………………………
Correspondence Language: …………………………………..
Citizenship: ……………………………………………..
Gender: ....................................................................
Home Language: ……………………………………..
2. ADDRESS
Postal address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………….……….……………………………….………………………………..……………………………..…………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………..
Tel: …………………….……………………
Fax: …………..……………………
Email: ……………..………….………………
This address is valid until: …………………………………………..…………………
3. CONTACT IN HOME COUNTRY IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Surname: ……………..…………………
Initials: ………….………………
Title: ………………………….………………
Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…
..................................................................................…………………………………………………………………….……………...
Tel: …………………….……………………
Fax: …………..……………………
Email: ……………..…………………………
4. ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Proposed duration of language training
Starting date: ……………………………..……………….
Ending date: ……………….……………………………………...
(refer to the Information Guide for International Students, point 2)
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
DATE RECEIVED
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APPROVED
DECLARATION BY APPLICANT
Your responsibilities:
Instructions:
(a) You have to sign this section for your application form to be complete.
1.
The prospective student declares the following:
1.1
You have acquainted yourself with the contents of the document "Information Guide for International Students", enclosed
with this application form.
1.2
You must ensure that the information you have given is correct. If the information is incorrect the University is entitled to
reject your application, terminate your admission or cancel your registration immediately.
During your time as a student you must follow the rules and regulations of the University, which are published in Part 1
(General) of the University Calendar and in the particular Faculty’s Calendar each year.
You must pay all registration, tuition, class, residence and any other fees set out in Part 3 (Student Fees) of the University
Calendar on time. If the University has to take legal action against you, you must also pay all the University’s actual legal
costs.
The University will charge you interest on overdue amounts at the prime rate. The University will start charging interest at
the end of the first month after the amounts were due to be paid by you. If you were due to pay the amount on any day
after the 1st of the month then you will only pay interest for the remaining part of that month (the amount will be reduced
proportionately).
The University is entitled to refuse you entry to examinations, withhold your examination results, refuse to register you for
any further courses, or withhold your graduation certificate if your account is not paid in full. The University may apply all
four measures.
You agree to the University’s policy regarding the ownership of all intellectual property (for example any essays or papers
written by you or any research done by you). The policy can be found on the University’s website at
www.sun.ac.za/postgrad.
If you require emergency medical treatment the University will get medical assistance for you, but you will pay all costs
relating to the treatment.
The University agrees to keep the information you have given in this form and any information about you that is received
from third parties confidential. Your information will only be made available if the University is legally required to do so, if
the University must do so in order to fulfil its agreement with you or if you have given your consent.
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10
1.10.1
1.10.2
1.10.2.1
1.10.2.2
1.10.2.3
1.10.2.4
1.10.2.5
1.10.3
The following terms are very important, because they limit your ability to claim for any harm to you, your
property or the loss of your property while you are on University property. If you do not understand these terms,
please ask for an explanation.
If you suspect that you have an infectious or contagious disease you must get medical assistance immediately and you
must withdraw yourself from all University activities and accommodation and take all other steps to make sure that you do
not infect other students. If you fail to take these steps you will be held responsible for any claims that are made against
the University (in legal terms you must indemnify the University against these claims). If legal action is taken against the
University you must also pay all the actual legal costs.
The University will not be responsible for any harm to you or your property or the loss of your property, except for claims
that fall under 1.9.3. This means that the University will not be liable to you or your dependants, even while you are:
on University property;
participating in an activity relating to your studies or training;
participating in sport or any other recreational activities;
using any of the University’s premises, buildings, equipment or facilities; or
staying in or visiting any University residence or other accommodation.
You will only be able to bring a claim for harm to you or your property or the loss of your property, if it is caused
because you had access to property or equipment that was defective or unsafe, or if you were not given proper
instructions or warnings. In other words, you can only bring a claim that falls within Section 61 of the Consumer
Protection Act 68 of 2008.
Signature of Applicant:
Date: (DDMMYYYY)
…………………………………….…..
…………………………………..
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