This week Swiss-headquartered EF Education First published the 2024 edition of its English Proficiency Index (EF EPI). For the sixth consecutive year, the Netherlands 🇳🇱 is the country leading the global ranking, followed by Norway and Singapore.
In Latin America, Argentina 🇦🇷, Honduras 🇭🇳 and Uruguay 🇺🇾 are the top-3 countries, followed by Costa Rica 🇨🇷. Panama 🇵🇦 ranks 13th among 17 Latin American countries, just above Colombia 🇨🇴. It is 71th worldwide (116 countries) and listed in the “Low English Profiency” category.
Engish Proficiency Levels in Latin America Stabilize
After years of growth, Latin America’s regional average for English proficiency has plateaued this year. Brazil and El Salvador experienced significant declines, losing over 10 points, while Mexico saw a modest recovery following years of decline. Uruguay and Colombia, however, maintained their steady improvement.
Panama ranking remained stable with slow progress in profiency. Age-specific data in Panama highlights a unique trend: while adults over 40 are improving, English skills among 18-20-year-olds have steadily declined since 2017, an unusual pattern for the region.
💡English Profiency level is important information for international companies giving some insight in the easy of communication with(in) foreign markets and recruitment of English proficient staff.
About the Education First English Proficiency Index (EF EPI)
The EF EPI Index is the most extensive international study assessing English proficiency in non-native countries, capitals and regions since 2011. The 2024 index is based on the results of English tests of 2.1 million non-native speakers over 18 years of age in 116 countries.
EF Education First (abbreviated as EF) is an international education company that specialises in language training, educational travels, academic degree programmes, and cultural exchanges. It is Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland.