Examining the relationship between IELTS preparation and English language proficiency skills of international students

Authors

  • Zahra Maryam Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
  • Asad Ur Rehman Management Science University, Malaysia
  • Ayesha Nawal Management Science University, Malaysia
  • Muhammad Shoaib Tomas Bata University, Czechia
  • Ihtisham Ullah Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/rv7pqq16

Keywords:

International Students, , English proficiency, Academic achievement

Abstract

IELTS is a widely accepted English language proficiency test, required for academic and professional purposes. In this study, we examined the relationship between IELTS and the English proficiency skills of international students. We developed a proximal mediation model based on Bandura's triadic reciprocal determinism theory and tested it using covariance-based structural equation modeling. Data were collected through a survey of 275 international students preparing for IELTS to meet their academic requirements. The students reported that IELTS assessments significantly improved their English skills. They reported positive views of IELTS as an exam to enhance their language proficiency. Learning motivation for self-regulated learning and perceived self-efficacy for academic achievement served as two mediating factors that positively influenced the relationship between students' perceptions of IELTS and their English skills. Finally, the study analyzed the moderating effects of students' time management skills and found significant positive moderating effects.

Author Biographies

  • Zahra Maryam, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia

    Zahra Maryam is a dedicated research scholar who is pursuing her master’s degree in the field of applied linguistics at university Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), with a strong focus on English language proficiency, second language learning, language acquisition and academic writing of EFL learners.

  • Asad Ur Rehman, Management Science University, Malaysia

    Dr. Asad Ur Rehman is a Senior Lecturer at the Graduate School of Management, Management and Science University (MSU) in Shah Alam, Malaysia. He holds a PhD in Digital Marketing and specializes in areas such as service marketing, e-commerce, and customer engagement.

    Email: asad_ur@msu.edu.my

  • Ayesha Nawal, Management Science University, Malaysia

    Dr. Ayesha Nawal is a Senior lecture and researcher at Management and Science University (MSU), Malaysia. She received her PhD from Universiti Sultan Zainul Abidin (UniSZA), Malaysia. Her doctoral research focused on the Human Resource Management (HRM) practices, commitment and service innovation concerning the performance of higher secondary educational institutions.

    Email: ayesha_nawal@msu.edu.my

  • Muhammad Shoaib, Tomas Bata University, Czechia

    Dr. Muhammad Shoaib is a lecturer and researcher at Tomas Bata University. He holds his PhD in Business Management and Digital Marketing.

    Email: Shoaib@utb.cz

  • Ihtisham Ullah, Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation, Malaysia

    Dr. Ihtisham Ullah has recently joined Asia Pacific University as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Strategic Research Institute. In this role, he aims to further contribute to the field of tourism management, with a particular focus on sustainable development and community-based tourism.

    Email: ihtisham.ullah@apu.my

    ORDIC: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6755-7173

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Published

2025-09-13

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Vol. 15 No. 8 (2025): Journal of International Students

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Maryam, Z., Rehman, A. U., Nawal, A. ., Shoaib, M. ., & Ullah, I. (2025). Examining the relationship between IELTS preparation and English language proficiency skills of international students. Journal of International Students, 15(8), 95-120. https://doi.org/10.32674/rv7pqq16