Common English Mistakes by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from Saudi Arabia when writing in English.

Category:Student
Personal writing used for admissions and transfer letters.
Common Users:Students of various disciplines.
Mistake Example #1

Student / Admission Essay

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

As a young student from Saudi Arabia, I havealways dreamed tof studying at your prestigious university. Since I wams a child, I havehad a strong passion for engineering and technology. I believe that studying inat your institution will help me achieve my goals and contribute to the development of my country.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Changes I made were mostly to improve fluidity and readability. Nicely done :)"

As a young student from Saudi Arabia, I have always dreamed of studying at your prestigious university. Since I was a child, I have had a strong passion for engineering and technology. I believe that studying at your institution will help me achieve my goals and contribute to the development of my country.

As a young student from Saudi Arabia, I always dream to study at your prestigious university. Since I am a child, I have a strong passion for engineering and technology. I believe that studying in your institution will help me achieve my goals and contribute to the development of my country.

Mistake Example #2

Student / Personal Statement

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

I am very excited to apply ftor the Mmaster's program in Ccomputer Sscience at your esteemed university. Since I wams a child, I havehad a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few small changes were needed. Great work! "

I am very excited to apply to the master's program in computer science at your esteemed university. Since I was a child, I have had a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

I am very excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. Since I am a child, I have a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

Mistake Example #3

Student / Transfer Essay

Confusion between masculine and feminine pronouns

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and she has told me many great things about the programs and thecampus life. I believe that heris experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some corrections for the proper use of masculine pronouns."

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and he has told me many great things about the programs and campus life. I believe his experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and she has told me many great things about the programs and the campus life. I believe that her experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.