Spoken by 1,452 million speakers, English is the most spoken worldwide, and it is also one of the global languages that connect different people worldwide. 

If you are planning to pursue your education in another country, it may be essential to improve your English proficiency. 

According to recent research findings, approximately 85% of international organisations employ English as one of their primary languages for communication and operations. Moreover, a significant majority of academic journals worldwide, accounting for over 80%, are written and published in English. 

Considering these statistics, it becomes evident that individuals whose first language is not English, especially Indians, would greatly benefit from honing their English language skills as an essential component of their personal and professional growth.

Here are the top language learning strategies that will help Indian students to improve their English proficiency.

But, before moving on to the language learning strategies, let’s look at the Role of English in International Education.

Role of English in International Education

Students, academics, and educational institutions from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds can communicate and work together more quickly when they use English as a common language. 

The following are some of the most essential functions that English plays in international education:

1. Medium of Instruction

English is the predominant language of instruction in many worldwide educational programs, courses, and institutions. It makes it possible for students from various linguistic backgrounds to access school and effectively engage in academic activities.

2. Global Academic Language

The academic world now speaks English as its common tongue. It’s the language in which most academic conferences, research papers, and scholarly publications are written. In order to participate in worldwide academic debate and advance the spread of information, students and academics must be fluent in English.

3. Study Abroad Opportunities

The ability to speak and write English makes studying abroad possible. International students can pursue higher education at famous institutions worldwide thanks to the several countries that provide English-taught programs and scholarships. The language of English serves as a link between students and academic opportunities around the globe.

4. Access to Resources and Literature

Students proficient in English have access to a wide variety of educational resources, such as textbooks, periodicals, research papers, and online learning materials. Students have access to a wealth of learning resources and references because the majority of academic literature on the internet is in English.

5. Professional Development and Employability

Employers place a high priority on English language proficiency in today’s global work environment. In order to deal with clients, coworkers, and stakeholders from other countries, international businesses, and organisations frequently need staff who can speak English fluently. English competence improves employment opportunities across a range of industries.

6. Cultural Exchange and Understanding

Educators and students from other nations can communicate and exchange cultures through English. People can express their thoughts, experiences, and viewpoints with one another, generating a multicultural learning environment and encouraging intercultural communication.

Ways for Indian Students to Improve Their English Skills

1. Take an English Foundation Program

Enhancing your language skills before embarking on your study abroad journey can be significantly facilitated through enrollment in an English Foundation Program. These programs are widely available in most international schools and universities, catering to students seeking additional English support before commencing their studies. It is important to note that participation in an English Foundation Program is not mandatory for all international students, as it remains a personal choice based on individual needs.

2. Immerse yourself in English Activities

Immersing oneself in English and actively using it regularly is undeniably one of the most effective approaches to improving English proficiency.

You may considerably improve your understanding and command of the language by using even a few English terms in everyday situations.

Expanding your English language abilities can also be considerably aided by immersing yourself in English-language TV shows, YouTube videos, music, and literature. These materials help you become more accustomed to the language and introduce you to a wealth of new words, expressions, and colloquial terms that may not frequently appear in textbooks.

3. Find English Speaking Friends

Unquestionably, one of the best methods is to learn a language from native speakers. Therefore, it is highly recommended to actively seek opportunities to make friends with English-speaking individuals, whether they are fellow students in your classes or people you meet outside of the university.

While it may be tempting to primarily associate with people from your own country or those who speak your native language, it is essential to step out of your comfort zone if your goal is to improve your language skills. 

By building friendships with native English speakers, you create a conducive environment to practice your English and incorporate new phrases and expressions into your everyday conversations. These interactions and language exchanges significantly contribute to your journey toward fluency.

4. Get Involved in Events and Volunteer Opportunities

Make it a point to actively participate in English-speaking events and volunteering opportunities in your area or your university.

Engaging in these activities offers an excellent opportunity to socialise and expand your circle of friends and exposes you to like-minded individuals who share similar interests. Building connections with people with common interests provides engaging conversation topics and allows you to maximise your English-speaking practice.

5. Watch TV and movies with subtitles

Learning a language doesn’t always involve extensive hard work and effort; sometimes, it can be as simple as enjoying your favourite film.

While some people prefer watching dubbed TV shows and films, an alternative approach is to watch programs with English subtitles. Adding subtitles to your viewing experience lets you read along with the on-screen dialogue. 

Without realising it, you’ll mentally translate the words as you watch, gradually improving your language skills.

6. Regionalise your English

Ensure you use an English language program corresponding to the regional variant used in your study destination. If you are studying in the U.S. or Canada, opt for an ‘American’ English program, whereas if you are studying in the U.K. or a former English colony, choose a ‘British’ English program.

Take the time to familiarise yourself with the slang and idioms specific to the English language in your country of study. British English and American English, for example, can have words and phrases with vastly different meanings, which may be considered impolite or inappropriate if used in the wrong context.

 Language misunderstandings are often cited as one of the most common sources of cultural surprises among international students.

Continue practicing your English-speaking skills even if you believe they are already proficient. Engage in conversations with native English speakers whenever possible. Throughout your day, mentally consider how you would express the things you discuss, ask, or debate in your native language in English. Some international students have found that watching television programs in the country of study can help improve their accents, break down barriers, and foster friendships with local peers.

Benefits of English Proficiency in Studying Abroad

Learning English for international study has several advantages. Here are several significant benefits:

1. Academic Opportunities

Many prestigious colleges and educational institutions across the globe use English as the primary language of instruction. With excellent English skills, you can access a more comprehensive selection of academic programs and possibilities overseas.

2. Communication

In international situations, English is the language that is most frequently used. Speaking well in English allows you to work more collaboratively and comprehend people from different cultural backgrounds, your teachers, and other students.

3. Study Abroad Preparation

If you learn English before studying abroad, you will feel more prepared and in control when navigating a foreign academic environment. It enables you to actively participate in study-related activities such as participating in class discussions, understanding lectures, writing academic papers, and more.

4. Cultural Integration

English proficiency encourages meaningful contact with local populations and helps cultural integration. It gives you a chance to become fully immersed in the host nation’s culture, make friends with local students, and engage in various extracurricular activities, all of which will improve your study abroad experience overall.

5. Employability

Employers in various industries around the world place a high value on English language proficiency. Being fluent in English is a great way to broaden your professional options and boost your marketability on a worldwide scale since it’s sometimes a necessity for roles in international employment.

6. Personal Growth

The challenge of learning a new language, like English, pushes you to hone essential abilities like critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. It broadens your horizons, encourages cultural sensitivity, and increases your self-confidence, which results in personal development and self-improvement.

Summing Up

The importance of English in international education cannot be overstated. It is a crucial tool for effective communication, grants access to academic materials, enables participation in study abroad programs, boosts career prospects, and fosters cultural exchange. Developing strong English language skills is vital for students and professionals who aspire to succeed in the interconnected realm of global education and beyond.

To sum it up, improving English skills and overcoming language barriers is vital for Indian students aiming to study abroad. Embrace everyday opportunities to practice English, like reading, watching movies, and chatting with native speakers. Take advantage of online resources and language courses, and don’t shy away from making mistakes.

With dedication and a supportive environment, you’ll gain confidence and excel in your international academic journey. Good luck on your language learning adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions