International Postgraduate Students’ Perceptions of Learning Difficulties and Their Impact on Academic Performance in British Universities

This qualitative study explores the perceived academic differences encountered by Asian postgraduate students studying in British universities and their impacts on the students’ academic achievements. To achieve this aim, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five postgraduate students of diverse Asian background studying at a prominent British university. The results indicate that the assessment, teaching and learning methodologies, and communication systems are perceived as the major areas of differences. Consequently, the perceived differences lead to challenges in adapting to the demanding requirements of critical academic writing, using specialized language for disciplinary communications, and embracing independent study patterns. The findings also highlight some positive outcomes associated with the experience of studying within a Western education system, as reported by the learners. The implications of this study are significant for British universities as they underscore the importance of recognizing the underlying challenges faced by international students while studying in the UK.