Bridging Employability Gaps: Comparative Perspectives on Bilingual Education’s Impact from Bilingual and Non- Bilingual University Students

Background In an increasingly globalised labour market, bilingual education is considered a key factor in enhancing students’ professional prospects. Understanding students’ perceptions of its value is essential for informing educational strategies. Methods This study analysed data from 2,107 students in Spain, both bilingual and non-bilingual, using a validated survey to assess their views on the role of languages and bilingual education in employability. Given the non-normal distribution of the data, a Kruskal-Wallis H test was employed to compare groups. Results Significant differences were found between bilingual and non-bilingual students in employment expectations, perceived career opportunities, salary expectations, and self-confidence in job searching. Bilingual students consistently reported more positive perceptions regarding the professional advantages of language proficiency. Conclusion The findings highlight the perceived strategic importance of bilingual education in preparing students for the demands of a global workforce. These insights can inform educational policy, curriculum design, and career development initiatives aimed at enhancing employability.