Improve Your English Language Skills

If English is not your first language, you may need to put in some extra time and effort into brushing up on these language skills.

Some of the most popular international study destinations are the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. And seeing as English is the most widely-spoken language and medium of instruction in most universities in these countries, it is of utmost importance that potential international students are fluent in both spoken and written English. If you only have a basic working knowledge of English or if you need to brush up on your English language skills, don’t worry! SchoolApply has partnered with various Pathway providers worldwide that support international students in overcoming the English language barrier before they start their university studies.

Being fluent in English opens a world of career opportunities in countries, businesses, and industries around the globe, including careers in international affairs, global trade, diplomacy, commerce, and tourism.

Despite advances in tools that translate languages, English also remains the undisputed language of the online world. From software and apps to social media platforms and peer-to-peer review sites, English serves as the main language in which people communicate online. Without a good understanding of this language, you are sure to be left behind in the tech-driven world.

English proficiency tests
Another reason you should brush up on your language skills is because, even if universities don’t conduct an entrance exam, you can be sure that as a non-native English speaker you will be required to sit for an English proficiency test of some sort. IELTS vs TOEFL: which one should you take?

Two of the most common English proficiency tests are, the TOEFL: the Test of English as a Foreign Language; and IELTS: the International English Language Testing System.

The TOEFL consists of four sections and is scored on a 0-120 point scale. The average score required by universities in the United States is approximately 80 points. The IELTS exam also contains four sections and is scored on a band system, with one band meaning the user has no knowledge of English, whereas 9 bands imply that the person is an expert in the language. The average band requirement for universities in the United Kingdom is 5.5 to 6 out of 9, in all the four modules as well as the overall score. Both exams test a student’s ability in reading, speaking, listening and writing.

It’s one thing to earn a good score on one of these two exams for non-native English speakers, but it’s another thing to be able to navigate life and studies at a university in a country where English is the main language. You will have to speak up in classes, maybe even work as part of a team, and you will want to make friends with fellow classmates during social activities. Not only is your proficiency in English necessary for your academic success, but it’s a key element in getting settled in your new environment when you study abroad.