Acquiring English as a Foreign Language (EFL) brings a wide range of cognitive, academic, socio-economic, and cultural advantages. This paper investigates these benefits using a mixed-methods design that integrates surveys, interviews, and analysis of students’ academic records. The research centers on Latin American students from varied educational settings and economic backgrounds. Key findings indicate gains in metalinguistic skills, access to broader career pathways, and stronger intercultural abilities. Additionally, statistical data reveal improved academic outcomes and higher job placement rates for bilingual individuals. These insights provide valuable input for shaping future research and informing educational policies aimed at strengthening EFL instruction in non-English-speaking regions.
Sandoval et al. (Fri,) studied this question.