How Long Does it Take to Learn English?
How quickly can I become fluent in English?
The answer really depends on your circumstances and it’s up to you. In this article we will try to look at the linguistic aspects, then a few factors that could both hinder or enhance learning. And most importantly we will give you a clear answer on how long it takes to learn English, at least in ideal conditions.
How fast can I learn English?
Most language learners want to know how long will it take to learn it. And we like quick results, don’t we? So there are many advertisements of language schools or courses promising speed learning and miracle results such as ‘become fluent in 2 weeks’, ‘4x faster’ and other promises of results that take no effort and no time. How many people do you know who actually did that? Although many language learning experts are constantly working on improving learning methods and they are getting better, the reality is that we are still far from those miracle promises. So how long does it really take to learn English?
How long does it take to learn English?
The quick answer is: it takes 720 course hours to become fluent. In other words, it takes a year of intensive English learning (15 hours per week) to get from beginner (A1) to advanced (C1) level. This is in line with the CEFR framework. But we should also add the time that you will need to spend on homework and real-life practice. That means an extra 2 hours a day (5 days a week) on top of the course hours. Having included this, the total number of hours to learn English is 1200. This is the realistic amount of time and it will obviously take longer if you study part-time.
The number of hours to learn English according to the CEFR
Firstly, let’s have a look at the linguistic aspects. For this we can use the CEFR framework as a guide. If you are not already familiar with this (which I seriously doubt) the CEFR is the Common European Framework for the reference for languages. Its primary goal is to provide a benchmark for language learning at different levels across many languages and it is being adopted around the world. To say its influence hasn’t expanded in language teaching would be like saying Sherlock Holmes doesn’t have Watson or the night isn’t followed by the day and so forth.
They say with language comes culture and the CEFR adapts itself to many languages and over several decades linguists have been seeing it morph and evolve, so the CEFR is worth a close look.
CEFR framework
The CEFR explains how learners can advance across various levels from beginner, known as A1, to Advanced/Proficiency referred to as C1/C2 level. The framework divides different skills and what students and teachers should expect a student to do at these levels. These are called the CAN DO statements. These statements can be used as a measure to determine or analyse what a student CAN DO at a particular level. But don’t be too disappointed if you can’t be at the same level with every skill. Sometimes students have spiky profiles and acquire these over time.
How long does it take to learn English according to CEFR?
According to its guidelines depending on the number of weeks if you studied 84 hours over 14 weeks you could move from Elementary to Pre – Intermediate. Or if you studied 120 hours over 20 weeks (that would be a part-time course) you could move from Upper-Intermediate to Advanced and these are just guidelines. This is going on the assumption that you are a consistent learner and largely undisturbed.
Real life challenges in learning
But what does a consistent learner mean? It’s a well-known fact that most adult students nee to take on a part-time or a full-time job to be able to support themselves and their families. This extra responsibility may leave students exhausted and unable to fully focus on their school work. Students may spend more time catching up with their school work and missing important lessons, therefore in reality it often takes longer than the time period in the CEFR guidelines.
However, if a student is able to acquire a healthy work-study balance they can apply what they learn in class to the outside world. By finding this balance and with the right focus a student can even exceed their own expectations when learning English.
Factors influencing how fast you can learn Engilsh
Of course, other factors will influence a student’s progression throughout their course. Attending classes when the opportunity arises is also a good way to ensure consistent learning. Even working in an English-speaking environment can vastly improve a person’s language skills as well as living in an English-speaking household for example as a renter or in homestay accommodation. Not only is student accommodation fun but in the right enriching environment.
The learning environment to learn faster
One of the perks of being a student is being able to meet other students. Not only can you study together but you can also experience the culture whether it’s as a class, in student accommodation or other social situations. Furthermore, if there are any weaknesses in particular areas students can help each other do better. Always be critical of the voices that steer you on. Part of being a learner is developing higher-order thinking skills and critical thinking, working with what genuinely helps you and not hinders you.
The speed of learning depends on your goals and priorities
However, it’s also important to know what type of learner you are. Being able to analyse yourself allows you to determine the best study goals and how to get to where it is you want to go in your course. By knowing yourself you can develop a study program that allows you to work at a pace suitable for you within the CEFR guidelines. At the end of the day, what is the old saying ‘It isn’t the destination but the journey’.
Summary
It is not easy to determine how long it will take you to learn a new language because it depends on your individual circumstances. But it is always good to look at any linguistic frameworks and school guidance on what pace of progress you can expect. Also, be aware of your own personality as a learner and set realistic targets for yourself. For the best learning progress, surround yourself with people and learning experiences that enrich you as a person to make your world and life easier and not harder. And finally, as a student enjoy yourself while learning, life is too short not to!