How quickly will I learn English?

The question about the duration of language learning or test preparation is one of the first and most common ones. The main factors to consider when calculating the timeframe are the following:

• Your current level of English proficiency.
• Your desired level of proficiency.
• The number of lessons, including the number of guided sessions per week, as well as the number of self-study sessions per week (usually measured in hours).
• The intensity of the lessons.

Language schools determine the duration of learning based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This international classification is also used for French and German languages and consists of 6 levels (from basic to advanced) – A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, with A1 being the beginner level, B1 and B2 being intermediate, and C2 indicating fluency comparable to that of an educated native speaker.

On average, it takes about 200 hours of teacher-led instruction to reach the next proficiency level. For example, to achieve the ability to communicate freely as a tourist during trips to English-speaking countries, you would need to reach level A2, which requires 200 hours of instruction. Level B2 means that you can discuss fluently various everyday and social topics, while level C1 is more suitable for work or university studies in English. If you are already at level B1 and aiming for C1, you should plan for 400 hours of guided lessons.

In addition to the number of lessons, their intensity is also crucial. If you only have one hour of instruction per week or less, it is unlikely that you will come close to your desired goal even after 200 hours, and you might waste your time and money. Another important factor is the quantity and intensity of self-study sessions, which refer to activities between lessons. This includes completing homework and engaging in independent work, which is equally, if not more, important than guided instruction by the teacher.