Overcoming Language Worries: Why IELTS is Your Best First Step

Picture this: You walk into a café in a new country. You just want to order a cup of coffee, but suddenly your words get stuck as you have to speak English.

Or maybe you are in a class, and the teacher asks a question. You know the answer, but your mind goes blank because you are worried about incorrectly pronouncing the English words. 

What is it?  

It’s completely normal to feel nervous, uncertain or even self-conscious when you’re communicating in a language that you’re less familiar with.  

This feeling is known as foreign language anxiety, and many international students experience it- especially in academic or social settings where English is the main language. 

You might worry about making mistakes, being misunderstood or being judged by native speakers and professors. For example, participating in class discussions can feel intimidating when you’re surrounded by fluent English speakers.  

Foreign language anxiety is not just about speaking. Many students feel stressed when trying to understand lectures, express their ideas in writing or perform well in exams – especially when time is limited.  

What causes foreign language anxiety? 

There are many reasons why students might feel anxious about using English while studying abroad. Can you relate to any of these? 

• Lack of exposure to English in home country 

If English wasn’t commonly used in your home country, you may not have had many opportunities to practise listening or speaking in real-life situations 

• Limited knowledge of English for academic situations 

Even if you have a good grasp of everyday English, academic settings often require specialised vocabulary and writing styles – especially in subjects like law, engineering, medicine or business.  

• Cultural differences 

Unfamiliar social norms, academic cultures or communication styles can make you feel unsure how to navigate new situations. 

• Pressure to perform 

Some students feel extra pressure because their families have helped pay for their studies or made sacrifices to support them. This can make you feel like you have to succeed, which adds stress—especially when combined with the other factors above. 

How do I know if I have foreign language anxiety? 

Sometimes it is hard to tell if what you are feeling is just nervousness or something more. Language anxiety can show up in different ways. 

• In your mind: You may suddenly go blank even though you know the answer. Or you might keep replaying the same thought in your head, worrying about whether you are using the right word. 

• In your feelings: You may start doubting yourself or feel scared that others will laugh at your mistakes. It can feel like everyone is judging you, even when they are not. 

• In your body: Your face might turn red, your palms may get sweaty, or your heart could beat faster when it is your turn to speak. 

Crucial reassurance:  

It is very important to remember that English language anxiety does not mean you are not smart or capable. Many bright and talented international students feel nervous when speaking in English, as this is a new language for them.

Think of it like learning to ride a bicycle. At first, you might wobble or fall, but that does not mean you cannot ride. It only means you need more practice and confidence. Foreign language anxiety is simply a separate challenge, not a measure of your intelligence. With time, patience, and the right strategies, you can manage it and even overcome it. Every mistake you make is just another step toward getting better. 

 The IELTS  Academic test is designed especially for those who wish to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level in an English-speaking environment. But it’s more than just a way to meet admission or student visa requirements — it helps you develop the skills you’ll need to succeed at university.   

• Speaking -Unlike many other English language tests, IELTS gives you the opportunity to speak face-to-face with a real examiner. You’ll take part in natural conversations and share your ideas in a discussion. These real-world tasks are designed to help you feel ready and confident for university tutorials, seminars and presentations.  

• Writing –  The IELTS Writing test helps you become familiar with the kinds of tasks you'll encounter at university, such as describing data and writing structured essays. Through your preparation, you’ll practise writing in an academic style and increase your vocabulary – helping you feel more confident and ready for what’s ahead. 

• Listening – The recordings in the IELTS Listening test reflect real university situations, such as academic lectures or discussions between a tutor and a student. In preparing for the test, you’ll develop key skills like note-taking and identifying main ideas, while also becoming familiar with a variety of accents. 

• Reading – IELTS Reading preparation not only strengthens your test skills but also gives you a head start at university by expanding your academic vocabulary. The texts cover a wide range of topics relevant to undergraduate and postgraduate study. You’ll practise important academic skills such as recognising a writer’s attitude and identifying cause-and-effect relationships. 

• Academic skills - Preparing for IELTS builds both your language ability and your critical thinking skills. You’ll learn to consider different sides of an issue, express your viewpoint and support it with clear reasons and examples—the very skills expected in academic study. 

You don’t have to face English language anxiety on your own. With the right strategies and support, you can build your confidence both before and after you arrive in your new country. 

Before you leave  

• IDP’s pre-departure briefings: One of the best ways to feel less nervous is to prepare early. IDP offers pre-departure briefings that are not just about visas and paperwork. These sessions also guide you on what everyday life will look like in your new country. You will learn about accents, common slang, and the way people usually talk in classrooms. You will also receive tips on simple yet important matters, such as how to open a bank account or what to expect when participating in group discussions. Knowing these things in advance can make you feel more ready and less surprised when you have to speak in English in a new environment. 

• Build a support network: Another great step to overcome foreign language anxiety is to build a support network before you even board your flight. IDP helps you connect with international students who are going to the same city or university. This way, you find students from your home country, who can later help boost your confidence when you feel anxious about speaking in English. You can also join IDP’s alumni network, where past students share their stories and advice. Having friends and connections can make a new place and language feel a lot less scary. 

•  Surround yourself with English  - Make English part of your daily routine before you leave your home country. Start with small, simple changes like changing your phone’s language to English or watching English-language news. For more ideas, check out our blog post Make English Part of Your Everyday Life. 

• Focus on where you can improve - Before your course begins, work on the areas that you find challenging. If you’re worried about your writing, consider working with a tutor who can help you identify areas for improvement and guide you in building your skills. For speaking anxiety, try practising with a language exchange partner or using a pronunciation app to boost your fluency and confidence. 

After you arrive  

• Visit the IDP local office: If you ever feel stuck or unsure about how to deal with English language anxiety, step into the nearest IDP office. It is a friendly space where you can ask questions without fear of being judged. Even better, you get to practice speaking English in a safe setting.  

• Talk to your counsellor for advice: Your counsellor is still there for you, even after you have flown abroad. Whenever you feel stressed or confused about using English in everyday life, you can reach out and ask for solutions. Knowing that you have someone to guide you can make you feel much calmer. 

• Shift your mindset: Remember, you do not have to speak perfect English. The main goal is to be understood. People care more about your message than flawless grammar. 

• Reframe mistakes: Do not be afraid of errors. Mistakes are proof that you are learning. Even native speakers make them every day. Each mistake gives you a chance to improve. 

• Develop active learning habits: Be an active listener. Surround yourself with English by listening to podcasts, watching shows, or enjoying music. The more you hear it, the more natural it will sound. Keep a vocabulary journal. Carry a small notebook to jot down new words, slang, or phrases you hear from locals. Over time, this becomes your personal phrasebook. 

• Face your fears, one step at a time– If speaking English makes you nervous, start small. Invite a classmate for coffee after a tutorial, then try chatting with a few students in your accommodation lounge. As your confidence grows, join a club or sports team to practise speaking in a relaxed, friendly setting. 

• Ask when you’re unsure - Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class. If something isn’t clear, it’s okay to ask for it to be repeated or explained again. Even native English speakers do this. They might know the language well, but the topic could be new to them too—just like it is for you. 

•  Get support on campus - Most universities have support services for international students to help with academic, social and personal challenges. You’ll often find on-campus resources like writing centres and academic skills workshops that give feedback and help improve your writing. Some also offer peer mentoring or tutoring from senior students who can share tips and help you settle into university life. 

Feeling nervous about speaking English abroad is natural, but it does not define your ability or future success. With preparation, practice, and the right support, English language anxiety can become a challenge you learn to manage.

IELTS training helps you build the academic skills you need, while IDP’s guidance and support give you confidence both before and after you arrive. Remember, every mistake is just another step forward. Be patient with yourself, keep practising, and reach out for support when you need it. With time, English will feel less like a barrier and more like a bridge.  

Talk to a counsellor today for free to know more about how IDP can help you adjust to life in a new country.  

Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational and awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or support. If you ever feel overwhelmed by English language anxiety or related challenges, please reach out to a qualified counsellor, mental health professional, or trusted advisor for help.