Academic vocabulary is indisputably one of the most important features of academic texts and recent decades have seen the creation of several lists of academic vocabulary intended to provide a pedagogically useful compilation of the most prevalent words used across as well as within various academic disciplines. These academic word lists have assisted not only the teaching and learning of academic vocabulary, but they have also made a contribution to academic vocabulary research. However, the pedagogical and research value of such lists is sometimes questioned. When utilising these lists, it is therefore important to understand the underlying principles and methodological decisions which had informed their creation. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to offer an up-to-date overview of existing compilations of academic vocabulary, which will hopefully assist EAP researchers and practitioners in making informed decisions regarding the choice and utility of these word lists in their research and pedagogical practices
