The state school curriculum includes Pashto from grades 1 to 12, Dari from grades 4 to 12, and English from grades 4 to 12. Arabic is intended for grades 7 to 9; textbooks for Uzbek, Balochi and Pashayi cover grades 1 to 9. However, inclusion in the materials list does not prove that every school actually offers these subjects. The Constitution names Pashto and Dari as official languages and provides for the promotion of all languages as well as mother-tongue instruction in areas with language majorities. Practical implementation under the de facto authorities remains uncertain. Higher-education institutions may offer newly admitted students with limited English a two-semester English course. It covers speaking, writing, grammar, vocabulary and reading; fees, admission requirements and certificate value depend on the individual institution. For adults, literacy and language-learning opportunities are offered mainly by UNESCO, UNICEF, non-governmental organisations and communities. Historical programmes such as Learning for Life combined nine-month basic courses and six-month bridging courses for women aged 15 and over; temporary recognition as equivalent to the third year of primary school does not represent a current nationwide standard pathway. The free FILL programme for Pashto-speaking parents and caregivers included approximately ten hours of learning, but was listed only through 31 December 2024 and is therefore not established as currently accessible. Community-Based Education and Accelerated Learning Centres provide children with basic reading and writing skills; Accelerated Learning Centres can cover two grades per year and make up the material from grades 1 to 6 in three years. Reach, safety, teachers and progression to higher grades depend on the individual project and location. More than 2.13 million primary-school-age children were out of school in 2024/25, and more than 90 percent of ten-year-olds could not read a simple text. Around 2.2 million girls were excluded from access to education beyond primary school; women have had no access to higher education since 2022. Digital learning formats delivered by telephone, chat groups, online services or low-data offerings can supplement teaching, but are often not accredited and are limited by unreliable electricity and internet access. No publicly documented, nationally uniform language-learning platform was identified. The General Authority for Examinations (NEXA) is the general examinations authority, but a national language-proficiency framework, a CEFR equivalent or a standardised state language certificate has not been documented. The TOEFL iBT is available in Afghanistan; test location, home testing, fees, dates and recognition depend on ETS and the receiving institution. For everyday life, forms, healthcare, school and community life, literacy in Dari, Pashto or the relevant local mother tongue is usually particularly functional. English mainly supports higher education and international education pathways. A nationally standardised language-learning pathway for the workplace has not been documented; current providers, prices, dates and recognition should therefore be checked with the responsible institution in each case.
Languages in Afghanistan
Language learning in Afghanistan takes place in schools, higher-education institutions, literacy programmes, communities and digital offerings. Dari and Pashto are the two state official languages; in certain majority-language areas, additional languages may be designated as a third official language. Availability, recognition and access vary by province, institution, security situation and target group.
Tip
First decide whether you need a language for everyday life and basic education, higher education or international applications. For everyday life, a local language usually offers the greatest direct benefit, while English mainly matters for higher-education and international education pathways. Before starting, check every offering for current availability, access, cost and recognition.