Important to know

It is not quite easy to tell how long it does take to speak fluently any language, since it depends how much work the student does by himself. Self-studying is a very important part of learning a language, consequently the student has to consider this part of the process too.

To be able to speak fluently a language on a basic level (that means speaking about everyday topics like weather, hobbies, where one comes from etc.) one needs at least B1+ level, in our opinion. This level gives language learners a good framework to engage in a conversation. Of course if you want to speak fluently about more serious topics you need a higher level like B2 e.g.

What does B1 mean?

B1 level is a description in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages uses. There are 6 levels all together. A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2, while A1 is absolute beginner and C2 is proficient or native.Owl Languages - The Online Language School - Clock - How long will it take to learn...

Regarding Wikipedia B1 stands for:

  • Understands the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.
  • Can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken.
  • Is able to produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
  • Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

For German for example we mostly use the Schritte international 1-6 books (two books cover one level) because they cover all levels till B1.2 (B1+) level. For B1.3 and B1.4 we would recommend the “Aspekte” series.

For one Schritte book the student approximately needs 25-30 hours of lessons taught. The student needs almost the same amount of self-study hours for the A1 and A2 levels. For the whole B1 level you need at least twice as much self study time, since the vocabulary will be larger.

How long will it take to learn…?:

The following adjusted table was created on our own teaching experience and with the help of the Cambridge Website. The numbers always describe the total from beginners’ level A1 to the desired level:

Cumulative hours (attended hours and self study hours) of study to reach level
A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2
English 40-60 150-200 350-400 500–600* 700–800* 1060–1200*
German 60-80 150-200 360-400 560–650* 810–950* 1060–1200*

*can vary more

Let us know what you think about this estimate.

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