The Dual Dilemma of Language Barriers Faced by International Students in Higher Education: A Literature Review

This literature review summarizes and analyzes existing research on the language barriers faced by Chinese and Indian international students in American higher education. Drawing on previous research in second language acquisition and academic English, this paper summarizes the differences in language education between China and India and how limited academic English preparation impacts students' participation and learning experiences in American higher education classrooms. The paper also explores how higher education institutions can address these challenges through language support and learning environments. Overall, this literature review emphasizes the role of institutional practices in influencing the academic language development of international students.

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Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education
Published
2026-05-31
DOI
https://doi.org/10.64899/2151-0407.1883
Primary Topic
EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

The Dual Dilemma of Language Barriers Faced by International Students in Higher Education: A Literature Review

Song Wang
Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education
EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
article

The Dual Dilemma of Language Barriers Faced by International Students in Higher Education: A Literature Review

Song Wang
article en

Abstract

This literature review summarizes and analyzes existing research on the language barriers faced by Chinese and Indian international students in American higher education. Drawing on previous research in second language acquisition and academic English, this paper summarizes the differences in language education between China and India and how limited academic English preparation impacts students' participation and learning experiences in American higher education classrooms. The paper also explores how higher education institutions can address these challenges through language support and learning environments. Overall, this literature review emphasizes the role of institutional practices in influencing the academic language development of international students.

Journal of Comparative & International Higher EducationVol. 18(3)
North Carolina State University (US)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 4%
EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
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