International English Language Centre (IELC)

The International English Language Centre (IELC) is a pivotal and influential unit within the Presidency of Sulaimani Polytechnic University. It was established by Ministerial Decree No. 21800, issued by the KRG Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research on 9 November 2014. IELC is one of the leading public language centres in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, renowned for delivering high-quality English language training and examination services.

IELC is housed in a purpose-built facility, featuring a state-of-the-art computer lab, modern classrooms, extensive learning resources, and advanced audio-visual equipment. Since its establishment, IELC has offered a diverse range of English language training programmes to academics, employees, and students within and beyond Sulaimani Polytechnic University. This success is driven by its highly qualified and experienced instructors, along with its efficient and dedicated administrative staff.

Additionally, IELC provides specialised English language courses for postgraduate applicants, postgraduate students, and university instructors pursuing academic titles, in compliance with the guidelines and under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

Moreover, IELC delivers in-sessional academic English courses for postgraduate students, equipping them with essential academic and study skills to enhance their performance. IELC also oversees the English Language Foundation Course, which is centrally administered at the university level and is a mandatory requirement for all first-year students across the colleges and institutes of Sulaimani Polytechnic University.

Furthermore, IELC is an officially authorized examination venue for the British Council Iraq, responsible for administering IELTS examinations

Mission

The International English Language Centre (IELC) delivers high-quality English language education and training, equipping learners with practical linguistic skills that enhance their communicative competencies. Through academic programmes, IELC aims to empower students to become effective communicators and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Vision

Aligned with international best practices, the International English Language Centre (IELC) provides comprehensive learning opportunities for English language learners both within and beyond Sulaimani Polytechnic University. The centre is committed to enhancing learners’ skills through a structured and progressive approach, incorporating innovative teaching methodologies to empower them to build a successful future for themselves and contribute positively to their communities.

Objectives

• Providing learning opportunities for English language learners both within and beyond Sulaimani Polytechnic University.
• Delivering English language instruction that develops key language skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) alongside essential language systems (grammar and vocabulary).
• Offering English language courses for both general and academic purposes, tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners.
• Conducting intensive courses designed to train students and researchers in academic writing, preparing them with the linguistic and analytical skills necessary for producing effective research papers.

English language services

• English Language Foundation Course

This annually conducted course focuses on English for Academic Purposes (EAP), equipping first-year students at Sulaimani Polytechnic University’s colleges and institutes with the essential English language skills required for academic success.

• Postgraduate Academic English

This 15-week module is offered to Master’s (MSc) students at Sulaimani Polytechnic University during their first semester and is supervised by the International English Language Centre (IELC). The module aims to enhance students’ academic competencies through the development of the following key skills:

• Seminar participation techniques
• Effective presentation strategies
• Academic writing conventions
• Advanced academic speaking skills
• Research writing proficiency
• Plagiarism avoidance strategies in academic writing

• English Language Proficiency Course

This course is conducted in compliance with the guidelines and under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. It is specifically designed for postgraduate candidates and academic rank seekers. The programme consists of four proficiency levels: Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced. Through this course, learners develop comprehensive English language skills and gain a deeper understanding of language systems, enabling them to meet the required qualifications for higher education admission or academic title attainment.

• International English Language Tests

The International English Language Centre (IELC) is an officially authorized IELTS testing centre under the accreditation of the British Council.

1. IELTS Academic:

1. On paper
2. On Computer

2. IELTS General Training:

1. On Paper
2. On Computer

3. IELTS for UK Visas

1. IELTS for UKVI Academic – On Paper + On Computer
2. IELTS for UKVI General Training – On Paper + On Computer
3. IELTS for UKVI Life Skills A1
4. IELTS for UKVI Life Skills B1

• Proofreading Services

The International English Language Centre (IELC) provides professional proofreading and linguistic review services for Sulaimani Polytechnic University (SPU) postgraduate students, assisting them in refining their theses and dissertations written in English.