How well do Poles speak English?

Can Poles speak English well?

Proficiency in English is often seen as a valuable asset, facilitating communication, trade, education, and cultural exchange. In the era of globalization and the internet, all over the world, English has increasingly been embraced as a second language.

And Poland is no exception in this regard.

According to the 2023 EF English Proficiency Index, Poles rank 13th in the world in terms of English language proficiency, with an average level of B2.

What countries have the highest English proficiency?

In the 2023 edition of the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), a total of 2.2 million people from 113 countries and regions took the English proficiency test, of those just over half (55%) were women.

So which countries have the highest proficiency in English? In terms of English proficiency, we are outpaced by countries such as the Netherlands (1^st place, 647 points), Singapore (2^nd place, 631 points), Austria (3^rd place, 616 points), or just ahead of us, Greece (12^th place, 602 points). With its 13th place and 598 points, Poland ranks slightly outside the top ten but is still in the lead.

Why is the English language so popular in Poland?

To answer this question, we shall look into a few important factors contributing to the prevalence of the English language in Poland:

REASON 1: The (not so very) historical context

In the early 1990s, Poland has experienced significant socio-economic transition from communism to a free market economy. This transformation opened the country to Western influences. Slowly, the English language became indispensable for participation in international business, technological advancement, and other opportunities. Driven by the need to compete in the global marketplace and participate in cross-border collaborations, the demand for English language skills in Poland has surged.

REASON 2: English at Polish schools

The Polish education system plays a crucial role in shaping English proficiency among its citizens. English is taught as a mandatory subject in primary and secondary schools, with students typically beginning their language studies around the age of six or seven. The curriculum emphasizes grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Additionally, many universities offer English-taught degree programs to cater to the growing demand for higher education in this language.

REASON 3: English in the popular media

Beyond formal education, several societal factors influence English proficiency among Polish speakers. Exposure to English media, such as movies, music, and the internet, plays a significant role in language acquisition. The prevalence of English-language content on platforms like Netflix and YouTube provides ample opportunities for immersion and informal (and at times almost subconscious) learning.

REASON 4: Poland as part of the EU and international business

Last but not least, Poland's integration into the European Union has led to increased mobility and interaction with English-speaking countries. Tourism, business partnerships, and participation in international forums have exposed Poles to English-speaking environments, fostering practical language skills and cultural understanding.