The Impact of English Proficiency in Enhancing Employment Opportunities Among University Students

English language proficiency plays a fundamental role in shaping the employability of university graduates, particularly in multilingual contexts like Malaysia where English dominates professional and corporate communication. This paper examines how English language competency influences graduates’ performance in three critical areas of employability that include: job interviews, resume writing, and workplace communication. Drawing on a review of recent literature, the paper highlights that English language fluency enables candidates to articulate ideas confidently during interviews, thereby improving their chances of employment. In contrast, limited proficiency often results in vague responses, miscommunication, and negative perceptions of competence. Furthermore, resume writing demands clarity, precision, and professionalism—skills closely tied to English language mastery. Graduates with strong language abilities can present their achievements persuasively, while poorly written resumes risk being overlooked by employers. In workplace settings, effective English language communication is crucial for tasks such as report writing, meetings, and client engagement, where poor or inadequate proficiency can hinder career progression. Generally, findings underscore the importance of embedding practical English training in higher education to bridge existing skill gaps. Effort to Strengthen English language proficiency is not merely an academic requirement but a strategic asset that enhances graduates’ employability in an increasingly demanding and globalized labour market.