English language proficiency, prior knowledge, and student success in an international Chinese accounting program

International student exchange programs have gained popularity as a means to increase enrollments, support international academic partnerships, and improve student preparedness for globalized work environments. However, the relationships between English language proficiency, cultural intelligence, teamwork, self-efficacy, academic success, and other factors within these programs are not clear. This study investigates the correlations among international accounting students’ English language proficiency, accounting knowledge, and academic performance in a transnational education program in mainland China. Data were obtained from academic records of 104 accounting students enrolled in the program. A quantitative measuring of the Pearson correlation statistical tests were employed to measure the relationships between English language proficiency and academic performance, as well as between previous accounting knowledge and academic success. The results indicate a statistically significant relationship between English language proficiency and academic performance, and between previous accounting knowledge and academic success. This study has significant implications for transnational education programs, academic institutions, and policymakers and provides insights into effective strategies for enhancing the quality of transnational education programs and promoting the internationalization of higher education.