How Long Does It Take to Learn English

Almost everyone learning a language wonders how long it takes to learn English and how many hours per week should be dedicated to studying to see progress.

English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and mastering it opens up vast opportunities for international communication, career advancement, and education. To determine English proficiency, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is used, categorizing proficiency levels from Beginner (A1) to Proficient (C2).

This article tells how long it takes to reach a certain level of English, how much time is required to learn the language overall, and which learning methods are the most effective.

CEFR English Proficiency Levels

The CEFR system objectively evaluates language skills in four key aspects: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. According to the CEFR scale, there are six levels of English proficiency:

A1 (Beginner) – understanding and using simple phrases and expressions.
A2 (Elementary) – comprehending everyday topics and engaging in basic conversations.
B1 (Intermediate) – holding conversations while traveling and writing simple texts.
B2 (Upper Intermediate) – understanding complex texts and engaging in fluent discussions.
C1 (Advanced) – comprehending intricate texts, recognizing subtexts, and expressing thoughts at a professional level.
C2 (Proficient) – full mastery of the language in all communication contexts.

Setting Your Language Learning Goals

To determine how much time you need to learn English, it is crucial to define your purpose for studying the language — whether for travel, work, education, or personal development. Setting realistic goals will help you choose the appropriate level to strive for.

How Long Does It Take to Learn English?

The duration of learning depends on the regularity of study sessions, learning methods, and starting level. Below is an estimated time required to reach each level:

A1 (Beginner) – 90-100 hours (5-6 months of regular study, 2-hour sessions, 3-4 times per week).
A2 (Pre-Intermediate) – 190-250 hours (8-10 months).
B1 (Intermediate) – 350-490 hours (1-1.5 years).
B2 (Upper Intermediate) – 530-750 hours (2-2.5 years).
C1 (Advanced) – 730-1050 hours (3-4 years).
C2 (Proficiency) – 1030-1450 hours (4-5 years).

The choice of learning methods significantly affects progress. In addition to working with a teacher, it is essential to listen to music, read books, watch movies in English, and communicate with native speakers. If you're wondering whether it's possible to learn English independently, the answer is definitely yes! However, self-learning requires strong discipline, regular practice, and a diverse approach to studying. It also demands more focus and personal responsibility. On the flip side, attending a language school ensures discipline, provides immediate feedback from teachers, and facilitates the learning of complex topics.

How to Make Learning More Effective

To reach your desired level faster, consider the following key principles:

Regularity – systematic study sessions at least 3-4 times per week.
Varied Practice – a mix of reading, listening, writing, and speaking exercises.
Language Immersion – watching movies, listening to podcasts, and interacting with native speakers.
Interactive Learning – using mobile apps, enrolling in online courses, and joining language clubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to learn English from scratch?

With regular study sessions, you can reach A1 level in approximately 5-6 months.

How long does it take to reach the B1 level?

You can achieve an Intermediate (B1) level in 1-1.5 years of systematic learning.

How long does it take to reach the B2 level?

It typically takes 2-2.5 years, but with intensive practice and dedication, B2 can be achieved faster.

Learning English is an achievable goal if you dedicate enough time and apply effective strategies. The key elements are regularity, a variety of learning formats, and motivation for continuous improvement.

If you want to learn English quickly, receive professional guidance, and study with effective methods, try our courses! Sign up for a placement test at Bubbles English Center, determine your level, and achieve your goal with us!

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