If you’re asking, “How long will it take me to learn English?”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common and challenging questions we hear in the English Speeches Community. The honest answer is that it depends, but there are clear patterns to help you understand your path, set expectations, and stay motivated.
Whether you’re just starting with the free plan or joining our weekly classes, here’s what you need to know.
1. What Does “Learning English” Really Mean?
“Learning English” can mean different things depending on your goals.
- If you want to understand movies or order food while travelling, basic fluency might take 3 to 6 months.
- If you’re aiming for job interviews or university in English, you’ll need 1 to 2 years of consistent practice.
- If your dream is full confidence in writing, presenting, or debating, it’s a longer journey but absolutely possible.
At English Speeches, we break learning into levels: Beginner (A1–A2), Intermediate (B1–B2), and Advanced (C1–C2). Each level requires time and practice. Our level test can help you know where to begin: Start the Test.
One thing that helps many learners is the power of learning in a community. You don’t have to go it alone; you’ll go further with others beside you.
2. How Much Time Should I Study?
The Common European Framework (used worldwide) gives these rough estimates:
| Level | Study Hours Needed (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| A1 (Beginner) | 75–100 hours |
| A2 | 180–200 hours |
| B1 | 350–400 hours |
| B2 | 500–600 hours |
| C1/C2 | 700–1200 hours |
That does not mean endless memorization. In our Foundations Course, most learners grow fastest with just 20 to 30 minutes per day, especially when they mix methods such as:
- Watching speeches with subtitles
- Doing structured grammar lessons
- Practising word roots like prefixes and suffixes
Your progress depends more on consistency than on marathon study sessions.
3. What Makes English Faster or Slower to Learn?
Here are the biggest factors that affect how fast you will learn:
Speeds You Up
- Daily practice, even 10 minutes of listening or reading
- Using real English resources like our speech library
- Regular grammar classes, quizzes, and feedback
- Learning hacks from our guide on how to learn English fast and easy
Slows You Down
- Skipping days or weeks between practice
- Studying only grammar and never using it in real speech
- Waiting until you feel “perfect” before speaking
One of our favourite reminders in class is that mistakes show you’re moving forward, so speak up even if you’re unsure.
4. What If I Learn Slowly?
Learning slowly does not mean learning poorly. In fact, many slow learners remember things longer because they process each lesson deeply.
If you find yourself making slow progress, try using helpful tools for English learners, such as:
- Vocabulary lists with real examples
- Joining our Free Live Classes for live support
- Watching lesson replays at your own pace
Our community spaces are built for learners of all speeds, because steady progress beats rushing.
5. Can I Reach Fluency Without Moving Abroad?
Yes, most learners in the English Speeches Community live outside English-speaking countries and still reach fluency. The key is daily exposure. One powerful strategy is to think in English and stop translating in your head. It feels odd at first, but it speeds up fluency.
You can make English part of your routine by:
- Watching one speech with subtitles each day
- Writing short journal entries in English
- Recording yourself speaking and listening back
Each choice moves you closer to fluency—no passport required.
6. Final Thought: Focus on Milestones, Not the Calendar
Instead of asking “How long will this take?”, try setting small goals:
- Can I introduce myself clearly this month?
- Can I write a short email in English this week?
- Can I understand a 3-minute video by the weekend?
Those wins build real confidence. If you want tips on speaking clearly, check out 7 rules for excellent English speaking. Then sign up for one of our classes and put those rules into practice.
Need help finding your starting point? Take the free level test. Remember, you’re not alone. Our community is here to support you every step of the way.
