A Study on Academic Performance of International Students

Abstract

As the number of international students studying in both public and private universities in Malaysia increases, there is an increase in the diversity of students’ learning styles which may affect their academic achievement. International students may have cultural shock due to cultural differences in both academic and social aspects. Some international students may experience academic difficulties, despite the fact that they have been successful academically in their home countries due to the different teaching and learning environment as compared to their home countries. The aims of this study are (1) to examine the academic performance of international students, (2) to compare the academic performance of international students and Malaysian students (overall as well as by gender) in the selected degree programmes and (3) to explore the experience of international students. Cumulative grade point average (CGPA) is used to measure academic performance of international students and Malaysian students studying in degree programmes in Law and Civil Engineering offered in the university. Questionnaire is used to explore the students’ learning experiences. There are differences in the academic performance of Malaysian students and international students. Malaysian students outperform international students, while female students (both Malaysian and international) perform better than or as good as their counterparts in the programmes under study. International students have positive attitude toward interaction with other students, lecturers and faculty, and they are happy with their choice of education. The findings from this study can be used to improve the academic performance of international students in the university.