Learning French: How Long Does It Really Take?

One of the most common questions people ask is: How long does it take to learn French? The honest answer is: it depends. Everyone learns at their own pace, and many things can affect how quickly you improve.

What Makes a Difference?

1. How often you take lessonsIf you take one lesson a week, you’ll make progress, but slowly. With two or more lessons per week, you’ll learn faster. Regular practice helps you remember things better and stay motivated.

2. What you do outside of lessonsLessons are important, but what you do in between matters too. Doing a bit of French every day—even just 10 minutes—can make a big difference.

Tips to Learn Faster

Here are a few simple ways to boost your learning:

• Join a French conversation groupSpeaking with others is one of the best ways to become more confident. Even if you make mistakes, you’ll improve with time.

• Watch movies or series in FrenchStart with French subtitles or choose shows you already know. This helps you get used to the sounds and rhythm of the language.

• Read short articles in FrenchTry reading news for learners or simple blog posts. You’ll learn new words in context and see how grammar works in real life.

• Listen to French musicChoose songs you enjoy and look up the lyrics. It’s a fun way to learn new expressions and improve your listening skills.

So… How Long Will It Take?

If you’re starting from scratch and you’re consistent, you can expect to:

• Hold basic conversations after 3–6 months

• Speak comfortably at an intermediate level after about a year

• Reach fluency in 1–2 years with regular study and immersion

But remember—these are just estimates. The key is to keep going, stay curious, and enjoy the process. French is a beautiful language, and every step forward is progress!

✨ Ready to start learning French or take your skills to the next level? 

Book a private lesson with GoFrench and get personalised support that fits your goals and schedule. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your conversation skills, we'll work together to help you make real progress.