English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
EAP improves non-native speakers’ academic language proficiency for higher education. It focuses on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in academic contexts. EAP courses are considered necessary for students from non-English speaking backgrounds.
If you’re a non-native speaker planning to study at an English-speaking university or to be engaged in research through English in an academic setting, then you had better become proficient in EAP. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- EAP courses are specifically designed to improve your English language proficiency for academic purposes.
- These courses focus on essential skills like academic writing, reading comprehension, presentation skills, academic discourse and rhetoric, note-taking, academic listening skills, writing summaries, debating skills, etc.
- Universities, language schools, and other institutions that provide language instruction are where you’ll most likely find EAP courses offered.
- You’ll need as a minimum an intermediate (B1) level of English proficiency to take on a foundation EAP course; however, the required level may vary by institution, program, degree to be done, research level, etc. Most EAP courses are set at B2-Foundation and C1-advanced levels, with C1 being the goal. C1 is the level for international entry at the Bachelor degree level.
- To be admitted into an EAP program, you need to prove your language competence by taking an initial English language proficiency test.
- EAP courses may be integrated into a degree program as a separate course of study offered before the start of the degree program. Such EAP courses normally also incorporate EAP components that focus specifically on the degree course field.
- Aside from language instruction, EAP courses may also provide academic support such as help with essay writing, research skills, and critical thinking.
- Cultural orientation and support services to help international students adapt to the academic and social culture of the host country are also often available in EAP programs.
In summary, if you want to succeed academically in an English-speaking country, then EAP is a must. Get ready to improve your academic language skills and receive academic support and cultural orientation through EAP courses!
