The Hippo World Finals are the grand finale of the Hippo English Language Contest, uniting the best young English learners from around the globe. After months of preparation and several qualifying rounds, finalists from over 70 countries come together to celebrate language, learning, and friendship.
Held every year in Italy, and for the past two years in the city of Assisi, the World Finals are much more than an academic event — they’re a global celebration of communication and culture.
Held every year in Italy, and for the past two years in the city of Assisi, the World Finals are much more than an academic event — they’re a global celebration of communication and culture.
During the Finals, students take all four skills — listening, reading, writing, and speaking — as well as the Hippo Test, designed to assess overall language proficiency. All tests are evaluated by an international team of qualified assessors.
Alongside the examinations, participants, teachers, and parents enjoy a rich cultural programme, including The Italian Way Workshops, Hands-On Stop-Motion Fun with Misseri Animations, sightseeing, and creative activities that showcase Italian art, culture, and lifestyle.
Alongside the examinations, participants, teachers, and parents enjoy a rich cultural programme, including The Italian Way Workshops, Hands-On Stop-Motion Fun with Misseri Animations, sightseeing, and creative activities that showcase Italian art, culture, and lifestyle.
A Look Back at the Hippo 2025 World Finals
The Hippo 2025 World Finals unfolded over several unforgettable days filled with excitement, discovery, and celebration. As participants arrived in Assisi, they were greeted with smiles, music, and the welcoming spirit that defines every Hippo event. After registering at the Hippo Desk, students joined interactive activities designed to help them meet one another — from playful team games to cheerful photo moments with the beloved Hippo mascot. The atmosphere came alive with colour and energy during the Grand Opening Parade & Waves of Unity Spectacle, setting the tone for a week of shared experiences and friendship.
Once the Contest began, the focus turned to testing the finalists’ skills across listening, reading, writing, and speaking, along with the distinctive Hippo Test. Between exams, students took part in creative sessions such as Hands-On Stop-Motion Fun with Misseri Animations, where they learned animation techniques and produced their own short films. Teachers and coordinators, meanwhile, attended dedicated sessions including the Hippo English Without Borders presentation and a networking evening hosted by Bucksmore College.
Once the Contest began, the focus turned to testing the finalists’ skills across listening, reading, writing, and speaking, along with the distinctive Hippo Test. Between exams, students took part in creative sessions such as Hands-On Stop-Motion Fun with Misseri Animations, where they learned animation techniques and produced their own short films. Teachers and coordinators, meanwhile, attended dedicated sessions including the Hippo English Without Borders presentation and a networking evening hosted by Bucksmore College.
The cultural side of the event shone just as brightly as the academic one. Coordinators and embassy representatives gathered for a Welcome Meeting at the historic Sala della Conciliazione, followed by a guided tour of Assisi’s landmarks. Students immersed themselves in The Italian Way Workshop & Challenge, exploring Italian creativity and culture through interactive, hands-on experiences held under the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The week culminated in the dazzling World Finals Grand Awards Ceremony at the Lyrick Theatre, where finalists were celebrated for their dedication, talent, and enthusiasm. Music, applause, and pride filled the hall as the winners were announced, marking the perfect finale to an inspiring journey.
The week culminated in the dazzling World Finals Grand Awards Ceremony at the Lyrick Theatre, where finalists were celebrated for their dedication, talent, and enthusiasm. Music, applause, and pride filled the hall as the winners were announced, marking the perfect finale to an inspiring journey.
As the event came to a close, the Hippo Spotlight Corner offered students a chance to share their stories and reflect on what the experience meant to them. Friendships were formed, confidence grew, and the spirit of unity that defines Hippo shone brighter than ever. Participants departed with medals, certificates, and lifelong memories — carrying the message that language truly connects the world.
Hippo continues to celebrate language, diversity, and global connection — giving students a chance to grow, shine, and make friends across borders.
We hope to see you in the Hippo 2026 World Finals to experience the joy of learning and growing together — the Hippo Way!
Relive the excitement! Browse photos from Assisi capturing learning, laughter, and international friendship.
Hippo continues to celebrate language, diversity, and global connection — giving students a chance to grow, shine, and make friends across borders.
We hope to see you in the Hippo 2026 World Finals to experience the joy of learning and growing together — the Hippo Way!
Relive the excitement! Browse photos from Assisi capturing learning, laughter, and international friendship.
