From classroom to Konkur: exploring the effect of EAP courses on academic performance and general English proficiency in Iranian psychology undergraduates

English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses are instrumental in preparing students for the linguistic demands of academic settings, particularly in disciplines such as psychology. In Iran, beyond addressing various academic needs, students aiming to pursue higher education must also succeed in the national university entrance examination, known as Konkur. EAP courses are purported to equip them with the necessary skills to perform well in this test, but the extent of this effect remains uncertain. Furthermore, while these courses are thought to enhance the General English Proficiency (GEP) of independent English users, the degree to which EAP contributes in this area is not well documented. Using a quasi-experimental design, this study analysed data from 120 undergraduate Iranian psychology students through pre-test and post-test assessments. Results from paired samples t-tests indicated a significant improvement in academic outcomes among the experimental group, suggesting that students enrolled in EAP courses achieved better Konkur test results. Initial t-tests also showed higher GEP levels in the experimental group compared to the control group, with further enhancement observed after the course. Although this research did not investigate the underlying mechanisms of improvement, it supports the effectiveness of EAP courses in developing academic skills, as reflected in improved Konkur scores and increased GEP. Future studies can explore procedures, techniques, and course materials in more depth, with greater attention to potential confounding factors.