English for the 21^st Century
The course is an English language course designed for residential international students aged between 14 and 17. The course is project-based throughout and each project follows the Task-Based Learning approach. The aim of this course is to provide an environment in which learners can be supported to noticeably improve their English language skills over a very short time period while being given the opportunity to develop key 21^st Century skills.
Broadly, by the end of the learners’ stay they will be able to listen, speak, read and write in English with more fluency and accuracy and with an increased range of vocabulary and appropriacy in a variety of contexts and in relation to a range of topics. They will do this through learning and/or developing their communicative and collaborative skills, creative and critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and their sense of social responsibility.

VIEC One-Term Intensive English Programme (September intake) is designed as an affordable, quality course to prepare for progression onto UK-style VIEC foundation pathway courses leading to opportunity of progression onto national and international higher education.
Why This Programme?
·        For students with IELTS 5.0 or proven equivalent to reach IELTS 5.5 / CEFR B2 in just 12 weeks.
·        Course modules modelled on Oxford International Study Centre (OISC).
·        Affordable education and all-inclusive accommodation in the EU.
·        Preparing students in English Language and Academic Skills for progression onto university foundation programmes
Programme Summary
·        Duration: 12 weeks (one academic term), mid-September to early-December
·        Study Hours: 25 hours/week (240-300 guided learning hours)
·        Entry Level: IELTS 5.0 or CEFR B1
·        Target Exit: IELTS 5.5 or CEFR B2
·        Class Size: Max. 12 -16 students
·        Age Group: 16-19 (post- secondary/IGCSE / pre-foundation stage)
Weekly timetable. What Students Learn.
·        Core General English (10hrs) grammar, vocabulary, fluency to reach CEFR B2
·        Academic English Writing (6hrs): short essays, reports, summarizing
·        IELTS Skills (4hrs): reading, writing, speaking, mock tests, exam strategies
·        Project Skills/Presentations (2hrs): group work, research and present on 21^st Century topics
·        Study Skills (2hrs) : notetaking, critical thinking, academic integrity.
·        Tutorials/Progress review (1hr): one to one or small group tutorials, feedback sessions
·        Live or Online Lecture (subject based)
Assessment
·        Initial diagnostic test (CEFR/IELTS style)
·        Weekly Progress Summative Assessments
·        Formal mock IELTS tests
·        Final portfolio and presentation project
Ideal Preparation For
·        VIEC’s Pre-University Foundation Programmes
·        IELTS exam success (optional - external entry)
·        English-medium diploma or degree programs
Location Advantages
·        Safe, affordable EU location (Varna, Bulgaria)
·        English-medium instruction with strong pastoral care
·        Easy visa access for most countries
·        Onsite accommodation, all-inclusive, dining, sports, supervision
·        Bilingual student support (on request)
End of Course Certification & Progression
·        Certificate of Completion (CEFR level + course hours) issued by VIEC
·        Individual progress report and IELTS readiness statement
·        Optional IELTS registration with local external test center
Opportunity to apply for VIEC foundation level courses or partner institutions. Completing the One-Term English with foundation, taken together, ensure a comprehensive learning experience that addresses both language proficiency and academic preparedness.
Key Message
"Our September one-term English course prepares students for academic success in English-speaking systems, with a focus on IELTS, academic skills, and academic progression readiness. Ideal for those considering UK-style VIEC foundation courses or study elsewhere.

Programme Overview
·        Start Dates: Any Monday (rolling enrolment)
·        Duration: From 4 weeks up to 48 weeks
·        Delivery Mode: Face-to-face (with blended learning options)
·        Levels Offered: CEFR A1 to C1
·        Target Audience: International students aged 16+ preparing for academic study, professional development, or personal improvement
Course Intensity Options
·        Standard (15 hours/week): General English – grammar, vocabulary, skills focus
·        Intensive (20 hours/week): Includes academic English & IELTS preparation
·        Super-Intensive (25 hours/week): Full academic support with project work, tutorials, and cultural sessions
Weekly Module Structure (Sample: Intensive Course)
·        Core English Lessons – 12 hrs: Grammar, vocabulary, fluency, accuracy
·        Skills Workshops – 4 hrs: Reading, writing, listening, speaking
·        Academic English – 2 hrs: IELTS tasks, academic vocabulary, study skills
·        Project Work & Culture – 2 hrs: Mini presentations, cultural themes, collaboration
CEFR Progression Pathway
·        A1 → A2: 12 weeks – IELTS 3.0–4.0 – Basic English survival skills
·        A2 → B1: 12–16 weeks – IELTS 4.0–5.0 – Social independence, simple writing
·        B1 → B2: 16–20 weeks – IELTS 5.5–6.5 – Academic readiness, exam prep begins
·        B2 → C1: 20–24 weeks – IELTS 6.5–7.5 – Foundation-level academic fluency
Assessment & Certification
·        Initial Placement Test: CEFR-based diagnostic
·        Progress Tests: Every 4 weeks (skills-based and ‘can-do’ checklist)
·        Quarterly Reports: Tutor comments, target setting
·        End-of-course Certificate: Indicates CEFR level & course hours
·        IELTS or Cambridge EFL Exam Optional (via local centers)
Teaching & Learning Approach
·        Communicative, learner-centred methodology
·        Focus on fluency, accuracy, and independent learning
·        Project-based learning and real-world tasks
·        Use of English Profile, CEFR ‘can-do’ descriptors, and up-to-date coursebooks
Academic Pathways
·        Students who complete B2 or C1 levels can achieve transition to:
·        Pre-University Foundation Programmes (Business, Science, Pre-Medicine, Social Sciences)
·        IELTS preparation modules for university entry
·        Short professional courses or higher-level academic support

Pathway to Global University Success
The Varna International Education Centre (VIEC), from January 2026 is due to offer specialist International Foundation Programmes designed to prepare motivated students for entry to competitive undergraduate degrees in Europe and worldwide. Whether aiming to study Medicine, Life Sciences, or other health and science-related fields, students at VIEC benefit from a rigorous academic curriculum, expert teaching, and a supportive international environment.
VIEC Foundation Programmes are designed to help students bridge the gap between high school and university by developing subject-specific knowledge, academic English, and essential study skills. The curriculum, subject to approval, reflects international entrance requirements and is tailored to meet the expectations of universities across Europe and beyond.
Based near Varna, Bulgaria on a modern, purpose-designed campus — with access to science facilities and a mini hospital — VIEC is committed to providing students with early exposure to real-world contexts, building skills, awareness, confidence and capability.
Why Choose a Foundation Programme at VIEC?
·        Designed for international university entry
·        To offer specialised pathways in Pre-Medicine and Life Sciences
·        Quality teaching in English 
·        Strong focus on entrance exam readiness, academic writing, skills development
·        A safe, engaging campus environment 
At an early stage of development, VIEC is due to establish formal university affiliations. However, each foundation programmes is aligned with recognised academic standards and designed to support progression to a wide range of university courses across Europe, UK, and globally.

Duration & Study Mode
Two-semesters: January– August or September– June. Full-time study.
Contact Hours
Up to 25 hours contact time per week
Language of Instruction
English
Programme Overview
This intensive foundation programme is designed for international students who intend to apply for tertiary education in medicine. While VIEC is in an initial phase of development and not formally partnered with any specific institution, the programme is delivered with strong academic support with clear emphasis on entrance exam readiness for higher education. universities across Europe and globally.
The curriculum has carefully been designed to reflect widely published entrance requirements for medical programs, with particular focus on Biology, Chemistry, Academic English, Skills for Medicine. The course supports students in strengthening their knowledge of Biology and Chemistry, improving Academic English, with focus on medical sciences terminology, medical ethics, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Programme Aims
• To provide a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry aligned with medical university entrance requirements
• To prepare students for entrance exams through structured guidance, practice and mock assessments
• To enhance academic English, including medical vocabulary and critical skills
• To build essential academic and independent study skills for success in higher education
Modules & Weekly Hours
·        Biology for Medicine – 5 hours/week
·        Chemistry for Medicine – 5 hours/week
·        Maths for Science – 4 hours /week
·        English for Academic Purposes & IELTS– 6 hours/week
·        Medical Ethics, Skills & Test Preparation – 2 hours/week
·        University Application Support & Guest Lectures – 1 hour/week
·        Optional: Additional IELTS Prep or Bulgarian Language Support – 2 hours/week
Assessment
·        Internal course assessments based on learning outcomes
·        End-of-Year summative subject examinations
Project Presentation on a contemporary medical topic
·        Medical Entrance Test simulation
External IELTS Academic Exam (to be taken at an approved centre)
Entry Requirements
·        High school diploma including Biology and Chemistry (minimum 62% for non-EU applicants)
·        Demonstrable English proficiency (IELTS Academic 5.5 minimum)
·        Minimum age: 17 at the time of enrolment
·        25-minute Interview (online, or in person)
Progression Pathways
Students who successfully complete the programme will be equipped with the subject knowledge, academic skills, and English language proficiency needed to sit medical university entrance exams and pursue applications to a wide range of medical schools in Europe, UK, and worldwide. VIEC provides general guidance and academic support throughout the application process. Admission remains subject to each individual university’s entry criteria, including specific testing or interview requirements.
Programme Highlights
• Preparation for international medical school entrance processes
• Up to 25 hours per week of instruction in sciences, academic English, and study skills
• Small group learning with individualised academic support
• Guest talks and structured clinical observation opportunities to gain awareness.
• Emphasis on EAP and integration of medical vocabulary, ethics, communication skills
• Curriculum designed with reference to widely recognised international standards, not limited to one national system

Duration & Study Mode
Two-semester programme: January– August or September–June. Full-time study.
Contact Hours
Up to 25 hours of contact time per week
Language of Instruction
English
Programme Overview
This foundation programme is designed for international students who intend to pursue undergraduate degrees in Life Sciences, including subjects such as Biological Sciences, Biomedicine, Environmental Science, Genetics, Pharmacy, Nutrition, Nursing, Sport Sciences, other related disciplines.
While VIEC is in an initial phase of development, not formally partnered with any single institution, this programme is offered as a preparatory course aligned with broadly accepted international standards across Life Sciences education. The course supports students in strengthening their knowledge of Biology, Chemistry, Maths and improving Academic English, with focus on terminology in life sciences, sports, and allied healthcare, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The programme is delivered with strong academic support with clear emphasis on academic readiness for higher education across Europe and globally.
Programme Aims
• To develop a strong base in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics relevant to life sciences and related disciplines.
• To improve academic English with a focus on scientific language
• To introduce key concepts across life science disciplines, including biotechnology, healthcare, nutrition, healthcare.
• To strengthen critical thinking, independent learning, problem solving and communication skills
Modules & Weekly Hours
• Biology – 5 hours/week
• Chemistry – 5 hours/week
• Mathematics for Science – 4 hours/week
• English for Academic Purposes & IELTS – 6 hours/week
• Study Skills & Project Research Methods - 2 hours/week
• University Application Support and Guest Lectures – 1 hour/week
• Optional: Additional IELTS Prep – 2 hours/week
Assessment
- Internal course assessments based on learning outcomes
- End of Year summative subject examinations
- Project presentation on a contemporary topic
- External IELTS Academic Exam (to be taken at an approved centre).
Entry Requirements
• High school diploma with science and mathematics subjects (minimum 60% overall)
• English proficiency: IELTS 5.5 minimum
• Minimum age: 17 at the time of enrolment
Progression Pathways
This course prepares students for further study in Life Sciences and related undergraduate degrees at universities in Europe and internationally.
VIEC provides academic guidance and support during the university application process. Admission to any university is based on its own requirements and may include further academic or language testing.
Programme Highlights
• Designed for students aiming to study Life Sciences subject discipline at degree level
• Balanced instruction across Biology, Chemistry, and Applied Mathematics
• Integration of English for academic and scientific purposes
• Strong focus on problem solving, research skills and scientific communication
• Supportive learning environment in an international context