If you’ve been wondering how long it takes to reach B2 level in French (the CLB 7 equivalent for Canadian immigration purposes), let’s talk honestly. From my experience, it takes a minimum of 10 to 12 months for an absolute beginner to get there. And this is assuming you’re consistent and guided the right way.
But here’s the thing: the timeline isn’t just about months. It’s about your passion for the language. If your only motivation is to “get done with French” for PR, chances are it will feel like a burden and take longer. On the other hand, when you truly enjoy the process, things move faster. Passion always beats pressure. Of course, life factors like family responsibilities, work schedules, and personal commitments also influence the journey.
How Many Hours Should You Study Daily?
The simple answer: the more, the better. But language learning is not about numbers, it’s about immersion.
Even if you spend 8 to 10 hours a day studying French, you may end up feeling overwhelmed and burned out. Instead, focus on living the language. Start by looking at objects around you and naming them in French. As you progress, begin thinking in French, talking to yourself in simple sentences, and gradually increasing complexity. This kind of natural immersion brings far better results than forcing hours of self-study.
The Real Key at the Beginning: Pronunciation
Most learners underestimate this, but pronunciation should be your top priority. Without correct pronunciation:
- People will struggle to understand you.
- You’ll struggle to understand others in listening tasks.
Why? Because how you pronounce words influences how you hear them too. Even grammar mistakes can be forgiven, but unclear pronunciation becomes a real barrier.
So start with:
- Pronunciation (non-negotiable!)
- Basic vocabulary
- Simple sentence formation + essential grammar
- Reading
- Listening
- Writing
- Speaking (your thoughts on topics like advantages, disadvantages, causes, consequences, solutions, examples, expressing & defending opinions…)
A Common Mistake to Avoid
Never compare your C1/C2 level of English with your A1 French. It’s like comparing a mountain peak to a small hill, you’re just starting out. Don’t frustrate yourself by translating complex English sentences into French. Instead, use the words you know to make simple, correct sentences. Language learning is always about moving from simple to complex.
And please, don’t fall for scams like “Go from 0 to B2 in 3-4 months.” Spoken French doesn’t magically come. It grows naturally once your pronunciation, vocabulary, reading, and listening build a strong foundation. You’re wise enough to understand!
Remember this: you’re learning the language, not inventing it. Every time you look up a word in a dictionary or resource, you’re doing exactly what’s needed. No shame in that.
And finally,
French is not just about exams or marks. It’s about mindset and approach. If you focus on clarity of pronunciation, build your vocabulary step by step, and immerse yourself in the language daily, B2 is absolutely achievable.
Stay consistent. Stay curious. And most importantly, enjoy the process!
If this helped you, feel free to share it with your French learning friends. And if you’re looking for structured support, check out our French courses at LingoRelic, we focus on real-life grammar use, not just textbook rules. 😊
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Email: lingorelic@gmail.com
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