Turkey ranks second to last in Europe in English proficiency

According to the results of the 2025 English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) published by EF Education First (EF), Turkey ranked 71st out of 123 countries in English proficiency with 488 points. Turkey, which was in 65th place last year with 497 points, experienced a 9-point decline this year. Turkey is currently second to last in Europe.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY HAS DECLINED GLOBALLY

The research revealed that there has been no progress in English proficiency worldwide since 2020. A significant decline was observed, particularly in speaking and writing skills. It was also emphasized that this year, productive skills—namely speaking and writing—were measured using an AI-supported assessment.

NETHERLANDS FIRST IN RANKINGS, MAJOR LEAP BY GERMANY

While the Netherlands, the leader of the index, maintained its first-place position in English proficiency, Croatia and Austria moved up in the rankings. Germany was the country that showed the biggest leap. In most of the rankings, it was revealed that speaking skills were the weakest area. Contrary to expectations, English proficiency scores for adults under 25 were lower than expected in many countries.

ENGLISH PROFICIENCY HIGHEST IN MARMARA REGION IN TURKEY

In Turkey, English proficiency reached its highest level in the Marmara Region. İzmir stood out as the most successful city in Turkey with 515 points. Ankara, with 508 points, rose above the national average.