More Than 10,000 Paisas Apply for “Medellinglish” English Training Sponsored by City Hall & EAFIT University

The Mayor’s Office of Medellín, through Sapiencia, the post-secondary education agency, is improving language skills through the Medellinglish program. The English training program, in partnership with EAFIT University, received 10,787 applications for the 4,000 spots available in the first round of 2025, to learn free of charge.

Photo courtesy of Medellín Mayor’s office.

Priority was given to vulnerable and special populations, reflecting the commitment to equitable access to training opportunities for employment and life, with an investment of approximately $750,000 USD.

So far, 3,634 people have confirmed their enrollment and began classes on July 15 using a hybrid methodology that combines in-person and virtual learning. To fill the available spaces, a process is underway for the remaining selected applicants, who will begin their training the week of July 22nd and finish classes the week of December 13th.

The program meets the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Those selected took diagnostic tests for levels A1, A2, B1, or B2, depending on their language proficiency.
Those who did not obtain a place can apply for the August application period for the Digital Citadel Medellín program. The program offers free, 100% virtual modular short courses in basic and intermediate English. This year, 14,173 people have benefited from this Sapiencia training program.

Photos courtesy City of Medellín.