Abstract
The study identifies the language learning strategies used by Arab postgraduate student at University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in order to master the English language required for postgraduate study. The study attempted to provide a deeper understanding of how an EFL learner employs strategies and practices to overcome the challenges of English language learning in nonnative context for academic purposes. The findings of the study give insight to the challenges of learning English in nonnative environments and ways in which individuals overcome the limitations of successfully acquiring the language. The study traces the English language development of the case study from his initial introduction to the target language to the current status and level of his English proficiency. The research paradigm method used is a case study method which allows for an in depth explication of the selected case. The strategy inventory of language learning SILL Oxford's (1990) was used as an instrument in addition to the interview with the case study. The research results revealed that the case study used all 6 types of language learning strategies which are categorized by Oxford (1990) most of the time. These strategies are; Memorization, Cognitive, Compensation, Metacognitive, Affective, and Social strategies. These strategies seems to have a direct relationship with the progress made in the level of English proficiency by the case study. Most significantly, the study implies that Arab students need to develop academic literacy skills in reading English texts to learn English and to involve socially in academic and social contexts. That is the case study however shown that it is possible to learn English through reading in English and also by social involvement.