English for academic purposes: How IELTS helps prepare for university abroad

Choosing to study in an English-speaking country is an exciting decision for international students. However, along with the excitement, one common challenge many students face is the language barrier. 

If you wish to study abroad and live in an international environment, an IELTS or similar English proficiency exam is a must. But how do you prepare for them? What exactly is English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and why is it important? 

This guide will address common student concerns and explain why English skills are crucial for university success in today's globalised world. But before we proceed, let’s review the basics. 

What is Academic English? 

Academic English is a specialised form of English used in educational settings, mainly universities and research institutions. Unlike casual or conversational English that is used with friends, academic English is formal and structured.  

It's the language of lectures, textbooks, research papers, essays and academic discussions. English for Academic Purposes extends beyond simple grammar and vocabulary. It covers: 

• • Academic writing conventions: Following proper citation styles, essay structures and research paper formats.  
  • Formal register and tone: Using sophisticated language structures and avoiding colloquialisms.  
  • Subject-specific terminology: Understanding technical vocabulary in your field of study. 
  • Presentation skills: Delivering seminars and oral presentations in front of academic audiences. 
  • Listening comprehension: Understanding lectures delivered at native speaker speed. 
  • Academic reading: Comprehending complex texts, journal articles and scholarly materials. 

The importance of English for university abroad 

International universities have strict requirements for English language proficiency. These requirements exist because higher education abroad is delivered mainly in English and to perform better academically, you need to understand and communicate in this language.

Higher education expects you: 

• • Understand assignments without difficulty. 
  • Attend fast-paced lectures that contain complex academic material. 
  • Participate in discussions where you must articulate ideas and defend your arguments. 
  • Conduct research using English-language sources and databases (when required). 
  • Write extensively, including essays, research papers, dissertations and case studies. 
  • Collaborate actively with classmates from different backgrounds in group projects and study sessions. 

Without strong English skills, it might be difficult for you to understand the academic content at university. You may understand a concept in your native language but struggle to follow it when taught in English. This can disadvantage you compared to native English speakers. 

How IELTS helps prepare for university abroad 

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely recognised English proficiency tests globally. Most universities accept IELTS scores as proof of English language ability, particularly for international students. 

Four IELTS sections and academic preparation 

IELTS is a comprehensive assessment tool that directly aligns with academic success skills. 

1. Listening 

• • What it tests: Your ability to understand spoken English in academic and social contexts. 
  • How it helps: University lectures move quickly and you will encounter various accents and speaking styles. IELTS listening preparation trains you to catch key information, understand main ideas and follow complex arguments. 
  • Real-world application: You will listen to recorded lectures, podcasts and educational videos at native speaker speed, preparing you for the actual university environment. 

2. Reading 

• • What it tests: Comprehension of academic texts, journal articles and detailed written materials. 
  • How it helps: University readings are demanding. IELTS reading sections feature lengthy passages with intricate vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Preparing for IELTS conditions you to read efficiently, identify key information and understand implicit meanings. 
  • Real-world application: You will encounter textbooks and research papers throughout your degree. IELTS reading practice develops the speed and comprehension needed to manage this workload. 

3. Writing 

• • What it tests: Your ability to write well-organised essays and reports 
  • How it helps: IELTS writing tasks include report writing and essay writing, which directly mirror university writing. You will learn proper essay structure, argumentation and academic tone. 
  • Real-world application: University assignments require essays, research papers and reports. IELTS writing preparation teaches you to organise ideas logically and maintain an academic tone throughout. 

4. Speaking 

• • What it tests: Your ability to communicate your thoughts and discuss ideas 
  • How it helps: Attending an international university offers you the opportunity to make connections with people from different cultures, participate in seminars, group discussions and presentations. IELTS speaking preparation helps you structure your ideas clearly and handle questions on the spot. 
  • Real-world application: Class discussions, presentations and one-to-one meetings with professors all require fluent, articulate speaking ability. 

IELTS score requirements and university expectations 

Most universities require an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.5, depending on the institution and programme. However, achieving the required scores is just the minimum. The actual proficiency you develop while preparing for the IELTS is what truly prepares you for university. 

Practical tips to develop English proficiency for academic purposes 

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) focuses on building language skills to succeed in higher education. Developing strong academic English early makes university study smoother and more effective. You can follow these tips to develop your language skills naturally: 

1. 1. Read articles in your field. Start with introductions and abstracts. Work towards full papers gradually. 
   2. Watch TED talks related to your interest. These are professionally produced and subtitled. 
   3. Listen to academic podcasts. Many universities publish their lectures online. Choose the ones that interest you. 
   4. Start a learning journal. Write daily reflections on the academic concepts you are learning about. 
   5. Practice writing. Write essays on topics that interest you. Aim for 500-1000 words and use advanced structures. 
   6. Record yourself speaking. Discuss academic topics in English. Record yourself and listen critically to identify areas for improvement. 
   7. Take an IELTS practice test. Understand where you currently stand and which areas need work. 

These tips can certainly help you improve your academic English. However, learning alongside students who share the same goals can accelerate your progress. Joining IELTS classes gives you guided practice, expert feedback and a focused environment that boosts your chances of success. 

Quick checklist: Are you ready to study English for academic purposes? 

• • I can understand academic lectures delivered at native-speaker speed. 
  • I can read and understand academic journal articles with minimal dictionary use. 
  • I can write well-organised essays with clear arguments and proper citations. 
  • I can speak confidently about academic topics without extensive preparation. 
  • I understand discipline-specific vocabulary in my field. 
  • I can participate in class discussions and seminars. 
  • I understand academic integrity and citation conventions. 
  • I can manage the workload and time management expectations of the university. 
  • I feel confident that I can succeed academically in English. 

If you can check most of these boxes, you are ready. If not, this guide will assist you in reaching this goal. 

IELTS + University pathway programme with English Path 

English Path is an internationally accredited language provider with multiple campuses across the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Australia. It is known for its personalised attention and positive, student-centred learning experience. 

Moreover, for students who need more than language training, EP Pathways programmes offer a direct route into higher education. These programmes help you improve your English while preparing you for university studies, giving you the skills and confidence needed for your degree. EP offers pathway programmes to support students in progressing smoothly from English study to university-level education. 

English Path's pathway goes beyond teaching you how to pass IELTS; it teaches you how to succeed in university.