This introductory chapter comprehensively overviews intensive English programmes (IEPs) in Turkish higher education. It highlights their significance in equipping students with the English language proficiency required for success in English-medium instruction (EMI) programmes. It emphasises the growing need for in-depth understanding and scholarly engagement with IEPs, considering their pivotal role in bridging the gap between secondary education and the demands of tertiary-level EMI contexts. The chapter contextualises IEPs within Türkiye’s broader socio-political, historical, and educational landscapes, setting the stage for the detailed explorations in subsequent chapters. Beyond establishing the rationale for this volume, the chapter introduces the themes and focuses of the book’s remaining chapters, covering topics such as the socio-political history of English-language education in Türkiye, the governance and administrative structures of IEPs, curriculum design, quality assurance, and the integration of modern technologies. It also highlights case studies from leading Turkish universities, offering practical insights into the implementation and evolution of IEPs. This introduction provides a roadmap for understanding the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities within IEPs, catering to educators, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to advancing language education in a globalised context.