In today’s interconnected world, English is the global language of communication, business, travel, and education. With over 1.5 billion speakers worldwide, English is spoken both as a first and second language in many countries — but where is it spoken best?
This article explores the top 10 English-speaking countries based on fluency, usage in daily life, and international communication, as well as how you can test and certify your English level with the International English Test (IET).
🇺🇸 1. United States
- Native Speakers: 300+ million
- Status: Official Language (de facto)
- Why: As the largest native English-speaking country, the U.S. sets the standard for American English in media, business, and international relations.
🇬🇧 2. United Kingdom
- Native Speakers: 67 million
- Status: Official Language
- Why: The birthplace of English, the UK influences global English through education, literature, and culture. British English is the reference for many global learners.
🇨🇦 3. Canada
- Native Speakers: 22 million
- Status: Official Language (alongside French)
- Why: Canada boasts a bilingual population, but English dominates in business, universities, and everyday life in most provinces.
🇦🇺 4. Australia
- Native Speakers: 25 million
- Status: Official Language
- Why: Australian English features unique expressions and pronunciation but is widely understood. Australia is a top destination for English learners and international students.
🇳🇿 5. New Zealand
- Native Speakers: 4.8 million
- Status: Official Language (alongside Māori and NZ Sign Language)
- Why: New Zealand offers high English proficiency, with clear and neutral accents. It’s known for its education system and welcoming environment for international students.
🇮🇪 6. Ireland
- Native Speakers: 4.2 million
- Status: Official Language (alongside Irish)
- Why: English is dominant in daily life, and Ireland is a growing hub for global tech companies and startups that require strong English skills.
🇿🇦 7. South Africa
- Native Speakers: 4.9 million
- Status: One of 11 official languages
- Why: South Africa has a multilingual population, but English plays a central role in government, education, and business.
🇸🇬 8. Singapore
- Fluency: Very High (EF EPI Score: 642)
- Status: One of four official languages
- Why: Singaporeans speak English fluently in all sectors — education, law, and commerce — often in a local variety called “Singlish.”
🇳🇱 9. Netherlands
- Fluency: Very High (EF EPI Score: 661)
- Status: Not official, but widely spoken
- Why: Over 90% of the population speaks English fluently. The Netherlands consistently ranks #1 in global English proficiency among non-native countries.
🇸🇪 10. Sweden
- Fluency: Very High (EF EPI Score: 618)
- Status: Not official, but widely used
- Why: Sweden’s education system prioritizes English from a young age, and the majority of Swedes are fluent, especially in professional settings.
🧭 How to Know Your English Level
Do you live in one of these countries — or plan to move there? Curious how your English compares?
You can test your English level online and receive a globally recognized certificate with the International English Test (IET).
🎯 Why Choose the International English Test?
- ✅ CEFR-aligned (A1 to C2 levels)
- 💻 Fully online with instant results
- 🧠 AI-evaluated Speaking and Writing tests
- 📜 Get a certificate for study, work, or visa applications
- 🏆 Associate Member of ALTE
- 💰 Starts from just £9.99
👉 Take the IET now and discover your English level today.
