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HIPPO English Without Borders – the Contest
HIPPO English Without Borders – the Contest is a prestigious international English language competition organized by Hippo, founded in 2012, aiming at promoting the importance of English language proficiency while fostering unity and cultural exchange among young learners worldwide.
A Global Opportunity. HIPPO invites students from around the world to challenge their English skills and connect with peers in a spirit of friendly competition. The contest nurtures a shared sense of identity, encouraging young people to come together as a global community.
Our Mission. The main goal of Hippo the Contest is to cultivate international understanding, forge lasting friendships, and promote the value of English as a bridge between cultures. Participants get the chance to develop their language skills while competing on a global stage.
A Glowing Legacy. Since its first edition in 2013, with just 5,000 participants from 6 countries, HIPPO has rapidly expanded its reach. The latest edition, held in 2024, saw a record-breaking number of 88,238 participants from over 65 countries, with nearly 200 students advancing to the final round!
Get Ready for 2025. The 13th edition of the HIPPO Contest will take place in 2025, and we are excited to welcome students and schools from around the world. With a vast network of country coordinators across more than 65 countries, students from all corners of the globe are encouraged to participate. Check out the 2025 Regulations for details on categories and eligibility. Hippo the Contest is open to non-native English speakers in search of a new challenge, invaluable experience and life-long friendships.
International Recognition. Aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), Hippo examinations use internationally recognized and Ofqual-regulated English qualifications as well as bespoke examinations, ensuring high-quality assessment of their English language skills.
Our Partners. And the excitement doesn’t stop with the Contest! It’s not just about competing and winning — it’s about discovering new things and gaining invaluable experiences. With the help of our incredible partners, we’ve lined up a variety of activities for you: tailor-made Hippo Summer Courses in collaboration with Bucksmore Education, and even stop-motion animation workshops hosted by the brilliant team at Misseri Animations!
But that’s just the beginning! Head back to our homepage to explore the endless opportunities we’ve prepared for you. Let’s unite through language and learning!