How can I adapt to life at an English speaking university? How can I get good grades? This book unravels the background and culture of English speaking universities. It explains how you will be expected to learn and study in universities in English speaking countries, and how you can develop your skills to excel as an independent learner. While it is important to understand how to undertake academic tasks like referencing, essay-writing and presenting information, it is also useful to be aware as to why the university requires you to do them. Each section includes the approaches, methods and applied exercises that will help you to understand and develop your skills. Reflective exercises as well as group tasks are also included to help you develop the study skills that are necessary for successful completion of a course. You are also encouraged to keep a copy of each completed task (in a portfolio) in order to demonstrate the skills you have learned to prospective employers. "Getting Ahead as an International Student" is designed for international students studying at any level - foundation level, undergraduate or postgraduate - and using any mode of study including distance-learning.