How Long Does It Take to Learn French?

If you’re wondering, “how long does it take to learn French?”, you’re in good company. French is one of the most popular languages for learners across the globe. Whether you’re preparing for TEF, learning for travel, or aiming for fluency, the time it takes to learn French depends on your goals, method, and consistency. If you’re asking how long does it take to learn French language in different contexts—such as travel, exams, or relocation—this guide will help you understand your path.

Course Duration at Indian Institute of Foreign Languages (IIFL)

Here’s a breakdown of how long it typically takes to complete each level of French at IIFL.

Regular Batch (Group Classes)

Level	Duration	Months (Weekdays)	Months (Weekends)	Proficiency Level
A1	60 hrs	2 to 2.5 months	2 to 2.5 months	Beginner Level
A2	60 hrs	2 to 2.5 months	2 to 2.5 months	Elementary Level
B1	70 hrs	3 to 3.5 months	3 to 3.5 months	Pre-Intermediate Level
B2	100 hrs	3.5 to 4 months	3.5 to 4 months	Upper-Intermediate Level
C1	90 hrs	4 to 4.5 months	4 to 4.5 months	Advanced Level
C2	90 hrs	4 to 4.5 months	4 to 4.5 months	Mastery Level

Customized (One-to-One) Courses

Level	Duration	Months (Weekdays)	Months (Weekends)	Proficiency Level
A1	60 hrs	2 to 2.5 months	2 to 2.5 months	Beginner Level
A2	60 hrs	2 to 2.5 months	2 to 2.5 months	Elementary Level
B1	70 hrs	3 to 3.5 months	3 to 3.5 months	Pre-Intermediate Level
B2	100 hrs	3.5 to 4 months	3.5 to 4 months	Upper-Intermediate Level
C1	90 hrs	4 to 4.5 months	4 to 4.5 months	Advanced Level
C2	90 hrs	4 to 4.5 months	4 to 4.5 months	Mastery Level

How Long Does It Take to Learn French Language?

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Learn more about how long does it take to learn French in different countries by exploring Study in France, Alliance Française, or French courses in India.

Learn more about how long does it take to learn French in different countries by exploring Study in France or French courses in India.

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Learn more about our French Language Course Options at the Indian Institute of Foreign Languages (IIFL). To enroll, visit the IIFL Contact Page

Here’s a general idea of how long each level might take, especially if you’re wondering how long does it take to learn French language from the basics to fluency:

A1 French: 2–3 months — ideal for beginners starting from scratch.
A2 French: 3–4 months
B1 French: 6–8 months
B2 French: 9–12 months
C1 French: 12–16 months
C2 French: 18–24 months

If you’re asking how long does it take to learn French fluently, reaching B2 or C1 typically takes about 1 to 1.5 years with consistent effort.

How long does it takes to learn French

Real Stories: Everyone Learns at Their Own Pace

If you’re curious how long does it take to learn French from scratch or how long does it take to learn French A1 level, these stories offer real-world insight.

Aditya – Working Professional Learning via Duolingo

Aditya, a 30-year-old IT engineer from Bangalore, always wanted to add a second language to his skillset. With a full-time job, he found it difficult to commit to regular classes, so he started with Duolingo and gradually added weekend classes at IIFL. He maintained a steady pace, completing lessons during lunch breaks and reviewing vocabulary in the evenings. Although his progress was slower, he consistently improved over time. After 18 months of combined self-study and formal instruction, Aditya comfortably reached B2 level and could hold conversations with native speakers while attending client meetings in Montreal. and took weekend classes. It took him 18 months to reach B2, balancing work and learning.

Ananya – Fast Learner for TEF Exam

Ananya, a 24-year-old student from Mumbai, aimed to move to Canada for higher studies. For this, she needed to clear the TEF exam with a minimum B2 level. She enrolled in a weekday customized course at IIFL, attended all her classes without fail, and practiced daily for 3 hours using additional resources like grammar books and YouTube channels. She also joined a speaking club on weekends to improve her fluency. Thanks to her discipline and clear goal, Ananya reached B2 level in just 7 months and aced her TEF exam. Aditya, a 30-year-old IT engineer from Bangalore, always wanted to add a second language to his skillset. With a full-time job, he found it difficult to commit to regular classes, so he started with Duolingo and gradually added weekend classes at IIFL. He maintained a steady pace, completing lessons during lunch breaks and reviewing vocabulary in the evenings. Although his progress was slower, he consistently improved over time. After 18 months of combined self-study and formal instruction, Aditya comfortably reached B2 level and could hold conversations with native speakers while attending client meetings in Montreal. and took weekend classes. It took him 18 months to reach B2, balancing work and learning.

So yes, how long does it take an Indian to learn French? It depends on your schedule, access to guidance, and personal motivation.

FAQs

Still wondering how long does it usually take to learn French or how long does it take to learn French for TEF? Check the answers below based on real learner experiences.

Q1. How long does it take to learn French from scratch?
Typically 6–12 months to reach B1 level.

Q2. How long does it take to learn French A1?
About 2 to 3 months with regular training.

Q3. How long does it take to learn French with Duolingo?
A1 and A2 levels may take 4–6 months. Higher levels need more structured learning.

Q4. How long does it take to learn B2 French?
Generally 9–12 months, or faster with immersion or focused learning.

Q5. How long does it take to learn French for TEF?
To score B2+ on TEF, plan at least 8–12 months depending on your starting level.

Q6. How long does it take to learn French fluently?
To become fluent (B2–C1), expect around 12–18 months of regular practice.

Q7. How long does it take to learn French Reddit/Quora say?
Reddit and Quora users commonly report 1 year to reach B1, 1.5 years for B2.

Q8. How long does it take to learn French in France vs. India?
In France, immersion speeds up learning. In India, expect 10–14 months to reach B2 with a good institute.

Q9. How long does it take to learn French with Babbel or Duolingo?
Apps are useful, but usually not enough alone to achieve fluency.

Q10. How long does it take to learn French horn?
Learning to play the French horn varies—expect at least 6–12 months for basic skills.

With the right guidance, even a complete beginner can make rapid progress. Whether you’re looking at how long does it take to learn French language online or through classroom programs, choosing the right platform matters. For additional study tips and preparation guides, visit Le Point du FLE or browse articles on BBC Languages French. Whether you’re studying for TEF, traveling to Montreal, or learning French in India, your learning journey starts now.

A Conversation That Changed My French Learning Journey

Student: “Madam, do you think I can really learn French in a year? I mean, I’ve never learned a foreign language before…”

Mentor: “Of course you can. But let me ask you first—why do you want to learn French?”

Student: “I want to go to Canada for work. I read that French helps in Quebec, and also boosts my CRS score.”

Mentor: “That’s true. But the motivation must be strong enough to carry you through the first few months. Learning French isn’t hard, but staying consistent is where most learners give up.”

Student: “I’ve started with an app. I do 15 minutes every day. Is that good enough?”

Mentor: “That’s a good start. Apps are great for beginners—they help you build confidence with vocabulary and pronunciation. But eventually, you’ll need structure. Grammar, speaking practice, and writing skills don’t develop on their own.”

Student: “My biggest fear is not being able to speak fluently even after months of study.”

Mentor: “That’s a valid concern. But let me tell you this—you will never feel ‘ready’ to speak. You just start. Even if it’s just two sentences a day. And with time, you’ll be able to hold a conversation.”

Why Every Learner Has a Different Timeline

Some learners sprint. Others walk. Neither is wrong.

I once had two students—Priyanka and Harish.

Priyanka was a full-time student. She studied French every day for 3 hours, watched French shows with subtitles, and practiced speaking with a language partner from France. She reached B1 in just five months.

Harish, on the other hand, was a corporate trainer. Between work and family, he barely managed two hours a week. But he never gave up. It took him 18 months to reach B1, but he did it—steadily, quietly, and with full commitment.

What People Don’t Talk About: The Psychology of Language Learning

French learners often underestimate the mental effort involved. It’s not just about memorizing words. You’re training your brain to think in another language.

There are days when nothing makes sense. Days when you forget everything you learned last week. Days when you compare yourself to others and feel like giving up.

That’s why successful learners treat French like a long-term relationship—not a short-term project. They show up even when they don’t feel like it. They accept the mistakes. They celebrate small wins.

And most importantly, they stay curious.

Experimenting With Your Learning Style

No two learners retain information the same way.

Some people love flashcards. Others prefer making colorful mind maps. Some need face-to-face interaction. Others thrive in self-paced learning.

The secret is not choosing the ‘best’ method—it’s figuring out what works for you. That may take a few months of trial and error.

Ask yourself:

Do I enjoy visual explanations or text-heavy notes?
Do I learn better in a group or solo?
Am I more productive in the morning or at night?

When your learning method aligns with your personality, French feels less like a burden—and more like a game.

Final Thoughts: Think Long-Term, Learn Smart

If you’re looking for a magic timeline, you won’t find it. And that’s okay.

Think of French as a skill you’re developing for life—not just a test or a trip. The time will pass anyway. You might as well spend it getting a little better each day.

Read one paragraph today. Watch one video tomorrow. Review one lesson on Sunday. It all adds up.

Whether it takes you 6 months or 16, you’re still learning a language spoken by over 300 million people.

That’s something to be proud of.