Student Admission and Support

Student Admission and Support

1. Student Admission Requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in English program is open to applicants who have successfully completed the Saudi General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihiyah) or its equivalent, preferably in the theoretical (literary) track. All applicants must meet the general university admission requirements and submit the necessary documents within the prescribed deadlines.
Applicants are required to take the national standardized tests administered by the National Center for Assessment (Qiyas), including the General Aptitude Test (Qudurat), the Theoretical Achievement Test, and the Standardized English Proficiency Test (STEP). 

Admission is competitive and based on a weighted composite score calculated as follows:
•High School Grade Point Average (GPA): 30%
•General Aptitude Test (Qudurat): 25%
•Theoretical Achievement Test: 30%
•Standardized English Proficiency Test (STEP): 15%
•The Theoretical Achievement Test assesses applicants’ cumulative knowledge in relevant high school subjects, while the STEP test measures English language proficiency.
Final admission decisions are made based on the overall weighted score and the availability of seats in the program.

2. Guidance and Orientation Programs for New Students

(Include only the exceptional needs offered to the students of the Program that differ from those provided at the institutional level).

The Department of English implements a structured guidance and orientation plan designed to support new students’ academic, linguistic, and personal adjustment to university life and the English language program. These initiatives complement the general institutional orientation programs organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs and provide specialized support tailored to the English major and the specific needs of first-year students.
A. Program-Specific Orientation Activities
1. Departmental Induction Session Conducted during the first week of the semester, this session introduces students to the program’s structure, study plan, credit-hour system, and progression requirements. Faculty members explain the importance of language proficiency, attendance policies, and academic integrity.
2. English Language Diagnostic Assessment Newly admitted students complete a diagnostic English test to evaluate their proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Results are used to place students in appropriate language-skill courses and identify areas requiring additional support.
3. Academic Advising Workshop The department offers an introductory advising workshop that explains course registration, sequencing, and academic standing rules. Each student is assigned an academic advisor from the faculty to guide them through course selection, performance monitoring, and career planning.
4. Study Skills and Learning Strategies Seminar The program provides a specialized seminar on academic reading, note-taking, citation practices, and the use of digital learning platforms such as Blackboard. This session emphasizes the development of self-directed learning and effective time management.
5. Introduction to Department Resources Students are oriented to the English Department’s facilities and resources, including the language laboratories, writing center, digital library databases, and translation lab. Demonstrations are provided on how to use linguistic corpora, dictionaries, and online research tools effectively.


B. Support for Students with Special or Exceptional Needs
1. Language Support Tutorials
Students demonstrating lower proficiency receive extra tutorial sessions and peer-assisted learning opportunities in coordination with the Language Skills Unit.
2. Advisory Follow-Up
At-risk students (those on probation or with academic challenges) are given individualized counseling and progress monitoring.
3. Mentorship Program
High-performing senior students mentor first-year students to support academic adjustment and motivation.
4. Well-being and Inclusion
Coordination with the Student Counseling Center ensures psychological, social, and academic support for students experiencing adaptation difficulties.


C. Continuous Evaluation
The effectiveness of orientation and guidance activities is regularly evaluated through student feedback forms and advisor reports. The Department of English reviews these findings each semester to enhance the relevance and quality of support services, ensuring alignment with the program’s learning outcomes and the institutional quality assurance framework.

3. Student Counseling Services 

(Academic, professional, psychological, and social)
(Include only the exceptional needs offered to the students of the Program that differ from those provided at the institutional level).

The Bachelor of Arts in English program provides specialized orientation, guidance, and counseling services tailored to the academic, professional, psychological, and social needs of English majors. These services are designed to complement the institutional programs offered by the university, focusing on the distinctive requirements of students pursuing studies in linguistics, literature, translation, and language education.
A. Academic Guidance and Counseling
Departmental Orientation Seminar
Conducted at the beginning of each academic year to introduce students to the study plan, program structure, degree requirements, assessment methods, and expectations of the English Department.
•Individual Academic Advising
Each student is assigned an academic advisor who provides continuous support regarding course registration, sequencing, and academic progress. Advisors assist students in setting realistic goals aligned with their professional aspirations.
Diagnostic Language Assessment
New students complete an English language placement test to determine proficiency levels and identify areas needing additional support. Supplementary tutoring sessions and peer-assisted learning are arranged as needed.
Workshops on Study and Research Skills
Specialized sessions are held on note-taking, citation, digital literacy, and effective use of online platforms such as Blackboard. Students are trained to use linguistic corpora and digital resources for research and analysis.
Academic Counseling for English Majors
Provides targeted support for challenges in linguistics, literature, and translation studies, guiding students through research projects and ensuring academic decisions align with long-term goals in English-related fields.


B. Professional Development and Career Guidance
•Career Awareness Sessions
Early orientation events highlight possible career paths for English graduates, including teaching, translation, content writing, and academic research. Alumni and professionals are invited to share practical insights.
Professional Development Workshops
Sessions on résumé writing, interview preparation, and networking skills are offered to strengthen students’ employability in English-related professions.
Cooperative Training Orientation (ENG4860)
Before beginning their internship, students receive structured guidance on workplace ethics, reporting standards, and linking theoretical knowledge to professional practice.
Career Counseling for English Graduates
Personalized counseling supports students in identifying suitable postgraduate programs and employment opportunities aligned with their specialization.


C. Psychological Counseling and Support
•Counseling for Language Learners
Psychological counseling addresses the emotional and cognitive challenges faced by students in mastering a second language or adapting to literary and cultural studies. Support is provided for issues such as language anxiety, cultural adjustment, and academic stress.
Advisory and Referral Services
The department collaborates with the Student Counseling Center to ensure access to professional psychological services for students experiencing anxiety, depression, or other personal difficulties.
Mental Health Support for Creative Expression
Counseling is available for challenges related to creativity and performance, such as writer’s block or presentation anxiety, ensuring a balanced and healthy academic environment.
Peer Mentorship Program
High-achieving senior students serve as mentors to first-year students, offering academic and emotional support, fostering belonging, and easing the transition into university life.


D. Social Integration and Community Engagement
Social Integration Programs
The department facilitates peer mentorships, language exchange partnerships, and cultural events that foster collaboration among students of linguistics, literature, and translation.
Cultural and Extracurricular Activities
Activities such as Language and Literature Week, debate clubs, and student-led projects promote teamwork, confidence, and creative engagement.
Community Outreach Initiatives
Students are encouraged to participate in tutoring programs, translation projects, and community service that connect language skills with civic responsibility.
Inclusive Learning Environment
Support measures are provided for students with special learning needs, including modified assessment methods and individualized academic assistance.


E. Ethical and Professional Awareness
The department conducts seminars on academic integrity, research ethics, and cultural sensitivity in linguistics and literature. Students learn to apply ethical standards in translation, research, and creative writing.


F. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
All guidance and counseling programs are regularly evaluated through student surveys, advisor reports, and feedback from counseling and internship units. The Department of English reviews outcomes each semester to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of its academic, professional,
psychological, and social support systems. Continuous updates ensure alignment with program learning outcomes, student needs, and institutional quality assurance standards.

4. Special Support

(Low achievers, disabled, gifted, and talented students).

In the Bachelor of Arts in English program, the Department of English recognizes the importance of providing specialized academic and personal support to accommodate the diverse needs of students. These services ensure that all students—regardless of academic performance, disability, or exceptional ability—are supported to achieve their full potential. The following initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to inclusive education and excellence.


A. Support for Low Achievers: The department implements targeted tutoring and mentoring programs for students facing academic challenges in core language, linguistics, and literature courses. Faculty advisors and peer tutors provide one-on-one academic coaching, while workshops are organized on study skills, time management, and exam preparation. Additional language support sessions are offered to improve proficiency in reading, writing, and communication skills.


B. Support for Disabled Students: The program offers comprehensive support services for students with disabilities in collaboration with the University’s Center for Students with Special Needs. Services include accessible course materials, assistive technologies (screen readers, captioning tools), sign language interpretation, and customized examination arrangements. Faculty members receive training to ensure teaching practices and assessments are inclusive and equitable.


C. Support for Gifted and Talented Students: Gifted and talented students are offered enhanced academic and creative opportunities that extend beyond the standard curriculum. The program provides advanced study groups, independent research projects, and participation in specialized literary analysis, creative writing, and linguistics workshops. Students are also encouraged to contribute to departmental publications and conferences.


D. Special Initiatives and Enrichment Programs: The department organizes special enrichment initiatives such as guest lectures by distinguished scholars, workshops with professional authors and linguists, and partnerships with local literary and linguistic organizations. These activities are open to all students but are particularly beneficial for gifted and talented learners while also providing motivational and inclusive engagement for low achievers and disabled students.


E. Monitoring and Evaluation: The Department of English regularly evaluates the effectiveness of these support services through advisor reports, student feedback, and academic performance reviews. Adjustments and improvements are made annually to ensure the continued success and inclusion of all student groups, in line with institutional policies and national quality assurance standards.

The Department and College Councils have the right to add any condition, if necessary.

 
Last updated: 13/05/2026