English Preparatory Program

The School of Foreign Languages implements a modular system in its English Preparatory Program. Based on the results of the ARELSTMS (Istanbul Arel University Placement and Exemption Examination), students are placed into one of four proficiency levels—A1, A2, B1, or B2—according to their level of English proficiency as determined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

If there are concerns regarding the accuracy of a student’s initial placement, the student’s level may be reassessed during the third week of the module. Based on the recommendations of the instructors teaching the student and the student’s academic advisor, a new placement examination may be administered when deemed necessary. As a result, the student may be transferred to either a lower- or higher-level group.

Students placed at the A1, A2, or B1 levels complete the Preparatory Program through four consecutive modules, each lasting a maximum of eight weeks, thereby completing the program within 32 weeks in one academic year.

Students whose initial placement is at the B2 level may complete the Preparatory Program within 16 weeks, provided that they successfully fulfill all assessment requirements. Upon successful completion, they may continue their studies in their academic departments beginning in the second semester if they so choose.

Students enrolled at the A1, A2, B1, and B2 levels progress to the next module upon successfully completing all formative and summative assessment components of the current module. These assessments include the module final examination, midterm examination, weekly quizzes, writing portfolios, project preparation and presentations, and classroom performance assessments.

Students who fail to meet the required assessment criteria repeat the module at their current level.

Students who successfully complete all modules become eligible to take the ARELIFS (Istanbul Arel University English Final Examination), which is administered at the end of the semester or the academic year. Since the target exit level of the Preparatory Program is B2, students must successfully complete the B2 level before they are eligible to sit for the ARELIFS examination.

Recognized Equivalent Foreign Language Examinations

Attendance Requirement and Excused Absences

All students enrolled in the English Preparatory Program are required to attend at least 80% of the classes offered during each module. Students who fail to meet the minimum attendance requirement are deemed unsuccessful for that module. Such students are not eligible to take the End-of-Module Test (EMT) and are required to repeat the module.

Student advisors appointed by the Preparatory Program monitor students’ attendance records and enter attendance information into the Student Information System (OBS).

Absences incurred while representing the University or the Republic of Türkiye in national or international meetings, sporting events, artistic activities, or similar events, subject to the approval of the Rectorate, are not counted toward the attendance limit.

All other absences, whether excused or unexcused (including those supported by medical reports or resulting from disciplinary suspension) are included within the maximum 20% absence allowance. No additional attendance allowance is granted under any circumstances.