How Long Will This Take?
How long will it take to achieve capable-high fluency?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long it takes to reach high proficiency in a new language and culture. But four key factors heavily influence the timeline:
1. Aptitude
Everyone brings a different level of natural ability to language and culture learning. Learners with higher aptitude may progress more quickly through each stage.
2. Linguistic Disparity
The greater the difference between the language you’re learning and any language you already speak fluently, the longer it typically takes to reach fluency.
3. Discipline
This is often the most important factor. Consistency and commitment to a structured plan will almost always lead to faster progress. Learners who stay focused and follow through on their schedules consistently make the greatest gains, regardless of other factors.
4. Courage
Language and culture acquisition isn't just intellectual—it’s personal. It requires facing fears, pushing through awkward moments, and persevering through feelings of inadequacy. Those who face these challenges with courage tend to move forward steadily.
Time Estimates (With Consistent, Focused Effort):
If you put in 24 focused hours/week:
➤ Estimated time to Advanced-High proficiency: 2.5–3.0 years
If you put in 32 focused hours/week:
➤ Estimated time to Advanced-High proficiency: 2.0–2.5 years
These estimates assume:
- Average or above-average aptitude
- 47 weeks per year of disciplined, uninterrupted learning (with up to 5 weeks off)
- No major disruptions from health, family, or external circumstances
A Few Important Notes:
Note 1:
If you can’t consistently commit at least 24 hours per week, your timeline will likely extend to 3–4 years or more. Learners with lower natural aptitude may require even more time, and could experience plateaus that prevent them from reaching the higher levels needed for meaningful, nuanced conversation about abstract topics like values and emotions.
Note 2:
At just 10 hours per week, most learners will plateau. Progress beyond Intermediate-High or Advanced-Low becomes unlikely unless the learner has exceptionally high aptitude. In most cases, 10 hours is insufficient for continued forward momentum at higher proficiency levels.