Tailored support and induction: our students are off to a strong start

Choosing to study in a new country can be both an exciting and daunting experience. At Study Group, we understand that the journey involves adjusting to a new culture, overcoming language barriers and adapting to different academic expectations. That’s why we provide comprehensive support and tailored induction programmes to help students feel welcomed and confident from the very beginning. From pre-arrival advice to on-site support, we ensure that international students are fully equipped to settle in and succeed.

This strong foundation of support continues throughout their studies, helping students thrive academically and personally as they prepare for university and beyond. Study Group’s latest data highlights how well-structured, tailored induction programmes help begin this journey:

• 84% of students feel welcomed and supported as they begin their academic journey
• 93% of students understand the expectations, resources and support available to enable them to succeed
• 3 out of 4 students were happy with the pre-arrival information, visa advice and support given to them

With an overwhelming number of students reporting positive experiences, these preparatory programmes create a sense of belonging and provide the cultural, social and academic support that students need to feel at home.

Clear communication ensures that students understand the expectations on them and what resources or academic support is available to them. This clarity is crucial, as it allows students to focus on their studies rather than navigating unfamiliar systems or struggling to access help. As a result, students are better equipped to succeed both academically and personally.

The benefits of pre-arrival support also cannot be overlooked as it proactively addresses the needs of students before they even set foot on campus, setting the tone for a positive experience.

Sustained engagement and success

The impact of this support is reflected in the overall student satisfaction rates, with 89% of respondents recommending their student experience. This underscores that the quality of induction and ongoing support extends beyond initial orientation and throughout their academic journey at international study centres.

And with 88% of students completing their programme and eligible to progress to their chosen degree course, it shows how these programmes enable students to meet the demands of university education

Why supporting international students matters

The benefits of international education extend far beyond individual students. Elena Rodriguez-Falcon’s recent article emphasises the importance of "listening to the needs of international students" and delivering high-quality programmes that help them integrate into new environments. This is not just about academic success; it’s about creating global citizens who can thrive in diverse cultural settings and contribute to innovation wherever they live.

Academic support and pathway programmes play a vital role in the journey of international students, ensuring they are equipped to succeed academically and personally. These programmes not only help students bridge gaps in language proficiency and academic skills but also build their confidence and independence as they transition to university life. The experiences shared by our students highlight the impact of this support:

“I had a great experience in the ISC and to get used to a totally English environment because of my language disadvantages. Those classes helped me to prepare for an English-taught course, more professional vocabularies for more a professional way to do assessments. I am more confident than before I joined the ISC.”

Shoka from Japan

“I'd say I'm fluent in English, but before I came to the ISC, my academic skills weren't the best. This module really helped me improve my academic writing and style and find my voice in writing. Now I don't sound like a computer. I have my own style in writing.”

Noaf Sultan Hamed Al Rawahi from Oman

“I don't talk to people that easily because I'm the only child. So making the first step to talk to people was not something I did back at home. You need to talk to people; they don't know that you need help unless you tell them you need help. I also learned laboratory skills, which are way different from how I did it back at home. And although I am a native English speaker from back home, academic English is still different compared to speaking English. I feel like I learned proper academic English here. It prepared me for university life as a whole. It actually did bridge the gap and made my first year really, really easy.”

Lohveena from Malaysia

These stories highlight the impact that high-quality academic support and pathway programmes can have on international students' journeys. By addressing academic, linguistic and personal challenges, students are prepared for both their academic journey and beyond.