There are some limitations in earlier studies on the training of academic research capability for English majors in China. It is found that some theoretical issues concerning learner training have not been settled and the studies concerning the components of learner training are far less than specific. What’s more, learner training distinctions between English majors in different directions are rarely touched upon and learner training effect is seldom investigated with the support of data. It is proposed that more work be done on the inherent characteristics, components and effect of the training of academic research capability as well as on learner training distinctions between English majors in different directions.