English language, academic support and academic outcomes: A discussion paper

This paper explores key issues associated with the admission of international students into university programs of study. It comes at a time when tertiary institutions in Australia and elsewhere are seeking to ‘get it right’ with English language admission requirements, and provide cost-effective support to students at need. The dual concerns of attracting the best possible student cohort while attending to the need, often critical, to maintain satisfactory student numbers, have largely overshadowed the reality on the ground of matching students with appropriate programs of study, and ensuring that those capable of succeeding are given the opportunity to. This paper looks to the literature as a starting point for identifying the important concerns, and then suggesting possible responses.

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