The International Student′s Guide

This book is intended for students from all language backgrounds other than English, attending or preparing to attend a university where the medium of instruction is English, particularly in the UK.  

The International Student′s Guide helps you succeed at university, by sharing the experiences of many international students who have already attended a university in the UK. Every student is unique, with different abilities and needs. With this in mind, the authors provide you with practical information and help on a range of aspects of study. They focus on both spoken and written forms of communication, and deal with the approaches to thinking and learning which you will meet in higher education in the UK system.

Written by experienced lecturers in language and learning, the book offers a wealth of advice and guidance on topics such as:

• ways of learning
• how to make the most of your own strengths
• working in seminars and groups
• writing in different forms, disciplines and at different levels
• assessment techniques such as exams and oral presentations.

Whether you are embarking on a pre-degree foundation course or a postgraduate programme, this book will help you manage all the challenging aspects of studying through the medium of another language, in a new and different environment.

This book is for students studying at any level in English on Foundation courses, on degree programmes, undergraduate or postgraduate, or on pre-masters programmes. It could be used in EAP classes and on summer courses and pre-entry programmes or for self study. It could also be used for staff-development purposes with lecturers teaching students from different language backgrounds. It is assumed that the reader already has a grasp of English at least equivalent to IELTS 4.5 or 5 or TOEFL 450-500 (130-170 on the computerised test).


SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, resources and videos on study success!