Abstract
The aim of this investigation was to ascertain the impact of English language proficiency on academic success of
first-year black and Indian students in human resources management at a tertiary institution. Students enrolled for
the period between 1996 and 2002 were included in the study. Statistical tests of differences between means were conducted. Significantly, the Indian group exhibited superior English language proficiency levels, compared to their black counterparts. The hypothesis that English language proficiency is associated with academic success appears to be substantially correct.