One of the most common questions that English students ask is how long it will take for them to become fluent in English.
Because of the many variables that are involved with learning a new language, this question is almost impossible to answer.
However, understanding the complex nature of learning a language and how your own efforts contribute towards the process, we can get a better idea of what it takes to become fluent in English.
How Much time is Required to Learn English?
To begin with, there are three things to consider:
Your Current Level
Naturally, your level of English when you become an English Second Language student will have a big influence on how long it will take you to become fluent.
In other words, if you are just beginning to learn English, it’s going to take you a lot longer to become fluent than someone who is already at B2 level.
There are 6 levels of learning English and we will discuss them a bit later on in this article.
How Much Time you Spend Learning or Practicing English Every Day
The more time you spend learning or practicing English every day, the sooner you will become fluent. However, it’s important to remember that this may still take many months or years depending on your level.
Finding time to study every day will be one of the key factors to your success. You can do this by making it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
What You Should Include in Your Studies
Like all languages, English is complex and consists of different areas such as spelling, grammar, pronunciation, and conversational skills.
Dedicating time to each of these areas every day will help you develop your English language and fluency abilities consistently.
Tips for Learning English as a Second Language
Be Committed
When asking how long it will take to become fluent in English, you must also ask yourself how committed you are to the process which involves regular classes, homework, and self-practice activities.
A proactive approach to learning English is what will take you the extra mile. In other words, you will need to make time for your classes, homework and other assignments or exercises.
The more committed you are, and the more work you put in, the quicker you will get results.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Many people feel embarrassed to practice speaking English in front of people. There is a very real fear of making mistakes in front of others.
However, speaking English out loud will help you improve your fluency at a faster rate. So, to avoid embarrassment, practice speaking English to yourself when you are alone by describing what it is you are doing, feeling, or thinking.
For example, if you want to make a cup of coffee, say out loud to yourself “I want a cup of coffee. I am walking to the kitchen. I am going to put the kettle on. I am taking my cup out of the cupboard.”
With self-dialogue, there is no pressure to be perfect in front of others and you feel more confident to take risks or make mistakes. Always remember, mistakes are not bad; they help you learn.
Don’t Rely on Translating
Relying too much on translating between English and your home language is helpful, but only to a point. Translating will give you comfort and help you progress in the beginning stages of your learning but translating will quickly become a problem.
Grammar is structured differently across different languages. Relying on translating will prevent you from becoming fluent because you will never internalise the English grammar system.
A way to help you fight your instinct to translate is to train yourself to think in English. Think in English as much as you can. Challenge yourself to translate your thoughts into both languages and take note of the differences in grammar structure. Think of it as a mental game you can play with yourself.
Find Useful Sources to Learn From
A common misconception is that watching English movies will help improve an English student’s language skills.
It is far more beneficial to watch vlogs and recorded videos on platforms like YouTube that are related to topics you are interested in.
You will learn lot more if you watch something where there is a person speaking directly to you as the viewer.
The English in movies is scripted and prepared – in other words it is not the type of English you will use in conversational English.
In addition, reading books and informative articles in English will also be more helpful than watching popular movies or TV shows.
Different Levels of the English Language
According to The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the process of learning English is divided into 6 levels:
A Levels – The Basic User
This student understands and uses familiar everyday expressions. They can use basic phrases that are useful to introduce themselves and can answer basic questions about themselves such as where they live or what their favourite colour is.
Although there is no free-flowing conversation in this stage, this student is able to learn new vocabulary and grammar skills that will help them communicate effectively on a basic level, in everyday situations.
B Levels – English Independent User
At this level, the student will be able to describe things and situations in past tenses. Comprehension is improved and writing skills are developed. Basic, clear and concise topics can be discussed in a relatively free-flowing manner.
This student will be taught complex concepts and texts, allowing them to accurately express themselves. Minor grammar mistakes might occur but speaking and listening skills are well-developed.
C Levels – Proficient English User
This student has well-developed English-speaking skills and will continue to learn new vocabulary while learning to analyse and understand structured texts. They will also improve their use of adverbs, adjectives, pronouns, and other analytical aspects of the English language.
This student is fluent in English and is able to analyse and understand nearly all of the same topics as a native English speaker. Excellent conversational skills, vocabulary, and grammar. This is the student that has likely been studying for many years.
Foreign Friend – Online English Teaching Websites
There is no way to say how long it will take for an English student to become fluent in the language. However, committing to all your online classes as well as making time to study, practice, and learn in your own time will earn you faster results.
Learning English as a second language is a commitment which will require several months, and sometimes years but is a valuable skill to have wherever you go in the world.
Foreign Friend is here to help you learn English as a foreign language, no matter where you are in the world.
Our approach is through personalised content and lesson structures that suit your unique English goals. We work to ensure you feel confident and relaxed – this is the way to learn everything new in life!
If you would like to learn English online as a second language, please feel free to contact us . We are here to answer all your questions.
Feel free to contact us in English or in your own native language. We look forward to becoming your Foreign Friend.
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