Foreign Language Proficiency Now Required for Regional University Graduates
Students in the Murcia region of Spain will soon need to demonstrate intermediate-high level foreign language skills to earn their degrees. This new requirement, expected to be implemented by 2029, reflects a broader shift toward internationalization and enhancing graduate competitiveness in the global job market.
Language Proficiency Mandate
The draft of the Universities Law of the Region of Murcia will make it mandatory for students at the University of Murcia (UMU), Polytechnic of Cartagena (UPCT), and the private UCAM to prove a B2 level of foreign language proficiency. This requirement is expected to be in effect for students starting their studies in 2029.
“The new law is intended to promote greater linguistic training in order to raise academic and technical competitiveness of both students and teachers who join universities.”
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This initiative follows a public consultation process where over 221 contributions were received from various sectors. Spain’s English proficiency ranks 25th out of 35 European countries, highlighting the need for language improvement. According to a 2024 report by Education First, the average English proficiency level in Spain is considered “moderate” (Education First, 2024).
Details of the Requirement
The law mandates that universities adjust their curricula so students can reach the necessary language proficiency by graduation, aligning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The goal is to integrate regional universities with their European counterparts to guarantee equal opportunities for students.
Several other Spanish regions and universities have already implemented similar requirements. Universities in Catalonia, Madrid, Valencia, Cantabria, and the Balearic Islands are already requiring a B2 level for graduates. The final objectives of the academic requirement are to equate the universities of the region with the Europeans to guarantee equal opportunities with other students, improve the employability of students, boost international mobility and break the teaching quality, which “opens doors to international projects.”
The new regulation also builds on ongoing language learning in primary and secondary schools, with more hours of language instruction. Universities will offer language centers, dedicated subjects, and support services to help students. The rectors will also attend the Regional Assembly annually to account for an academic memory.