LLT Journal, e-ISSN 2579-9533, p-ISSN 1410-7201, Vol. 25, No. 2, October 2022, pp. 474-483 LLT Journal: A Journal on Language and Language Learning http://e-journal.usd.ac.id/index.php/LLT Sanata Dharma University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 474 INVESTIGATING EMPLOYABILITY SKILL GAPS AMONG ENGLISH MAJOR STUDENTS IN ALGERIA Ahmed Mehdaoui Ibn Khaldoun University, Algeria correspondence: academictiaret@gmail.com https://doi.org/10.24071/llt.v25i2.4912 received 18 July 2022; accepted 30 September 2022 Abstract As English plays an increasingly important role in today's job market, several studies have shown a direct correlation between English and employability. In Algeria, many Algerians believe that good English skills can help them get better jobs. However, in today's 21st century, as studies have proven, college graduates are more employable if they have skills that meet the demands of the modern workplace. The question that arises from this study is whether Algerian students majoring in English have the skills that will enable them to pursue successful careers. As far as we know, few studies address skill gaps among Algerian major students. Therefore, this study aims to examine the discrepancies between the skills that Algerian English major students are taught in comparison to the set of skills required for employment. To address this, this work applied a quantitative approach using a questionnaire administered to 40 undergraduate students from the Department of English at Ibn Khalodun University in Tiaret, Algeria. Key findings of this research revealed a gap in teamwork and research analysis skills, which are top-notch competencies for employers. Keywords: Algeria, employability skills, English major, skill gaps Introduction Given today's competitive labor market and 21st-century employment demands, the skills needed in the modern workplace have changed in most industries. University graduates applying for all types of 21st-century jobs must possess certain skills, such as communication skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, and the ability to interact with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds if they are to increase their chances of landing a rewarding job. These skills are referred to as "employment skills" that are most valued and sought after by today's employers. Among these skills, English is regarded as one of the abilities that students should develop the most. This is so because the majority of modern international commercial transactions call for English. Even in nations where English is not an official language, many employers believe that English is crucial for jobs, according to English at Work (2016). Thus, English provides people with a variety of opportunities in nations where it is not their first language.