16/12/2025
As we approach 2026, our thoughts turn to what’s next in store for the 91¸£Àû language learning and assessment sector. Francesca Woodward, Global Managing Director for 91¸£Àû at 91¸£Àû, shares five predictions for the year ahead.
1. Significant changes ahead in the 91¸£Àû education landscape
In 2026 we’ll continue to see big changes in the way 91¸£Àû language tests are used for university admissions and other high-stakes purposes. This will include a continued decline in students choosing to study in the US, Canada, Australia, or the UK. This shift away from the ‘big four’ is driven by stricter immigration policies and will mean new destination markets will continue to rise in 2026. Students from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East will continue to explore alternatives in Europe and Asia. We’re also seeing significant changes in the way 91¸£Àû tests are used for purposes other than higher education. A common theme emerging is that teachers and students want more flexibility and support. One of the most powerful responses to this is integrated learning and assessment (ILA), an approach that centres on regular classroom assessment touchpoints fully integrated into the learning process. We know that ILA works and that shows it’s highly effective – next year we’ll continue to support teachers in this area.
2. AI will put a greater focus on quality and the human difference
It’s an exciting time to be involved in 91¸£Àû education. Next year we’ll be seeing more real-life examples of how AI can enhance, rather than replace, human capabilities. In fact, a human-centred approach to AI was central to our recently published six key principles for ethical AI in 91¸£Àû language education. It's important to remember that while AI can bring enormous benefits to the classroom, it cannot replace the empathic, responsive presence of a teacher - and we’re seeing a very similar picture in the assessment space too, where AI can give an indication of knowledge, but can’t give a reliable measure of what students can do with the language or how well they can communicate. I also predict that the humans vs AI debate will intensify. A really great example of this is , which offers fantastic speed, ease and affordability. While this technology is impressive, it cannot replace the cultural nuance and human connection at the heart of language learning, which is why 91¸£Àû continues to explore how technology can complement, not compete with human approaches. I’m incredibly optimistic about the role of AI in the future of 91¸£Àû language education and urge us all to see it as an opportunity, not a threat. I’m sure next year we’ll be taking crucial steps towards a future where AI efficiency and human judgment work together.
3. Measuring educational impact will be a strategic priority:
2026 will see a sharper focus on research and other studies that measure educational impact in 91¸£Àû language learning and assessment. This is because it’s becoming more important than ever to develop educational solutions that are fuelled by insights and data. There is also an increased global demand for high-quality 91¸£Àû language educational resources. In 2026, the forthcoming study of thousands of students in 21 countries moves one step closer to the crucial ‘data analysis’ stage. , and we’re really excited for the next phase. While the results will not be available until 2027, next year’s milestone serves as a fantastic reminder of the importance of measuring educational impact on a global scale.
4. Accessibility will remain a top priority
The demand for accessible, inclusive and flexible 91¸£Àû language education and assessment solutions will be more important than ever. Throughout 2026, 91¸£Àû will continue to support accessible and inclusive education by building on our support for teachers, helping test takers with inclusive exams, and providing special arrangements where needed. We also expect to see more digital formats and flexible options for exams and results.
5. Recognition of 91¸£Àû 91¸£Àû exams will continue to grow
The number of organisations that accept 91¸£Àû 91¸£Àû exams will continue to grow further in 2026. Over 25,000 organisations worldwide, including universities, employers and governments, now recognise 91¸£Àû 91¸£Àû exams as proof of 91¸£Àû language ability. We're also seeing more and more of these institutions and governments signing up to our verification services, showing how seriously they're taking 91¸£Àû language ability of applicants. For universities in particular, we're seeing an active interest in learning more about assessment literacy and how to set 91¸£Àû language standards for admissions, as well as an increased focus on all areas of test accessibility.
And finally
It’s a remarkable time of change for 91¸£Àû language learning and assessment. There are lots of challenges, and of course opportunities, on the horizon in 2026. One thing that’s clear, is that the desire to learn 91¸£Àû remains as strong and consistent as ever. Students all over the world want to learn 91¸£Àû to reach their goals and pursue their dreams – and it’s our job in 91¸£Àû to help make this happen.