Simple tips to progress beyond Level B2 in French - I Learn French (2023)

So you’ve reached level B2 French and think you can’t progress further or attend any new courses?

This is absolutely false! There are many ways to improve and maintain your French skills even if you have reached the upper-intermediate or advanced level. When I finish a course with a student, in addition to having my heart broken by saying goodbye, I give tons of resources to help them continue improving their French language skills.

The real challenge once we’ve reached either level B2 French or level C1 French is to continue learning and practising without a formal framework. Many students are left without any solid tips towards practising and maintaining their level.

(Video) Why&How to prepare for French DELF B2 exam in 3 months | In French with English Subtitle

Some reasons why it can be difficult to continue practising French after reaching level B2 French:

  • Working in an international environment where French is not mandatory
  • Not being located in a francophone country
  • You don’t need to speak French in general
  • Partner doesn’t want to talk to you in French
  • You don’t have friends who speak French

If the above description rings a bell, I want you to know that you are not alone; there are many students in the same situation. I also find myself in the same situation because when I reach a certain level in my language study, the question of what to do next is a constant challenge. Like you, I feel so satisfied with myself for reaching the level B2 but then what? What’s next?

I couldn’t believe that after a group or private French classes there were no solid ways to continue improving our skills. I had to find a solution, first for my students because I want them to continue their progress, but also for myself because I of course wanted to improve my other languages skills, as well.

The fact that I’ve studied 7 languages improves my expertise in teaching French as a second language as it helps me truly understand my students. I know what I’m talking about! As a very friendly French teacher, I’m going to share all my secrets tips to help you improve your French in ways that will never bore you, even with a B2 level. These secrets work so well, I can guarantee this as I’ve used them myself to improve my Portuguese, Dutch, English and Spanish. These secrets are also helpful for students who haven’t studied or spoken French for a long time and simply need a refresher.

Before giving you my secret tips. I would like to share a thought with you. Some of my students with B2 or C1 think their French is not good enough to work in a French-speaking environment. If you think the same, let me tell you that it’s absolutely false. I’m always surprised to see how some people diminish their talents and great skills in speaking French.

Once you reach a B2 level, you CAN work in a French-speaking environment. Yes, yes, yes! It probably won’t be smooth or easy for the first few weeks, but your brain is a fantastic machine and you’ll progress faster than you think. If you start at a new company with B2 level French, and you have to work in French, within a few months you’ll naturally reach level C1 French.

Let me assure you that by reaching B2 level French you’ve conquered the most difficult part of learning and speaking French. Don’t be intimidated by native speakers. Express your weaknesses out loud and they’ll be gone. If you still get remarks judging you by your unique and original accent, please keep in mind that the « problem » isn’t you but them, and you’d better run away.

(Video) LEARN FRENCH FAST: How to Become Fluent in French - Follow My Action Plan!

So now that you can stress less about your fabulous skills in French, here you go with my super tips that you can implement in your life to change and improve your French skills:

1. You can attend a group class a few times a week.

Many language schools offer group classes but… but… after the B2 level, students tend to not be as numerous compared to the other levels and therefore you might find yourself alone enjoying a smaller group class than you possibly did for previous levels.

2. You can attend a private French class once or twice a month: implementing a course routine every two or four weeks can help you maintain your French skills. Choose a face-to-face or online class with a teacher you like and continue implementing French at your own rhythm.

3. Activities in French if you are in a French speaking country: Crossfit, yoga, meditation, cooking class, …

4. Find some online courses about topics you like, in French! : Fun mooc edX

5. Attend (online) conferences about a topic you are interested in: Webikeo – Plateforme de webinar

(Video) HOW I WENT FROM NO FRENCH TO INTERMEDIATE IN 6 MONTHS🇫🇷

6. Subscribe to newsletters: Le monde

7. Find French speaker influencers to follow on social media ( Instagram, YouTube, …. )

8. Do some volunteering in French.

9. Listen to podcasts in French. There are so many podcasts available and free.

10. Date a French speaker. This one is obvious and I can assure you that dating a French speaker – (who in addition doesn’t speak well foreign languages) is an amazing way to help you improve your French.

11. Stay informed in French: RFIFrance24

(Video) Comment apprendre le français pour atteindre un niveau supérieur ? Stratégies et ressources B2-C2 !

12. Watch movies/ series in French or French movies.

13. Watch documentaries in French: my favourite channel is Arte. The content is totally free and it’s probably the best resources to watch documentaries in French.

14. Read books in French: you can start with a book you liked reading in your native language translated in French or challenge yourself and read a book by a French author. Here a few names of an author I like: Frederic Begbeider, Amélie Nothomb, Fatouma Dialo, Leila Slimani…

You see, there are so many great ways to implement French in your daily life! You can improve your skills, even if you already have a great level and even if you are not based in a French-speaking country.

And you? What advice would you give someone who wants to improve their level of French? Join my weekly newsletter below and share your advice with me!

FAQs

How to progress from B2 to C1 French? ›

If you start at a new company with B2 level French, and you have to work in French, within a few months you'll naturally reach level C1 French. Let me assure you that by reaching B2 level French you've conquered the most difficult part of learning and speaking French. Don't be intimidated by native speakers.

How long does it take to learn French B2 level? ›

According to the Alliance Française, it takes between 560 and 650 hours of lessons to reach a B2 level in French.

How to advance from B2 to C1? ›

If you are on a comfortable B2 level, and want to move it to C1, I suggest that you start using the language to learn new things with online courses. For example, you can use the website www.udemy.com. It has a lot of free courses about everything, any topic that can possibly interest you will probably be there.

How long to get from B2 to C1 French? ›

Time estimates for getting there range about 200 to 400 hours (bottom of A2 to top of B1) or upper beginner/lower intermediate “working knowledge”. A higher level of fluency – top B2 (upper intermediate) into C1 (advanced/operational proficiency) (ILR 2+ to 3+) is said to take 550 to 900 hours.

Is B2 French considered fluent? ›

Reaching B2 is generally considered by most people as having basic fluency. You'll have a working vocabulary of around 4000 words. It's not always effortless and it's not always perfect, but neither you nor your native speaking partners are having a really hard time in most circumstances at this point.

Is B2 a good level of French? ›

B2 – Upper Intermediate or Vantage: At this stage of French learning a user can: Understand the fundamental idea of a complex text, or technical piece related to his field. Can communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity without too much strain for either the learner or the native speaker.

Is B2 level French hard? ›

DELF B2 is not hard but if you want to succeed you have to use the right structure, and grammar point at the right moment. This exam is very straight and demanding. Actually, it's good because you have to get better if you want to take it.

Is B2 level difficult? ›

A B2 level is achievable to almost anyone as long as you pursue your learning goal with dogged persistence.

How to pass French B2? ›

Well, there are ten things you should consider doing.
  1. Plan and register in advance. ...
  2. Understand the format of DELF B2 exam. ...
  3. Understand the grading-passing scheme. ...
  4. Know your weakest point. ...
  5. Read the DELF B2 preparation guide. ...
  6. Solve all the DELF B2 preparation exercises. ...
  7. Memorize “les formules de politesse“ ...
  8. Know your connectors.
Dec 28, 2018

Is C1 much more difficult than B2? ›

Is there much difference between the exams? The answer is yes! You will need to work a lot harder and be serious about your preparation for the C1 Advanced exam. While the B2 First shows you have a good grounding in English, the C1 Advanced is closer to the level of a native speaker.

How long does it take to get B2 fluency? ›

To get from A1 to A2, it typically requires 100-150 hours of guided learning, but it can take 180-260 hours to get from B1 to B2.

What level of French is fluent? ›

C1 – Proficient User

Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.

Can I learn French B2 in 6 months? ›

Time per day

In short, you can learn French with roughly 2 to 3 hours of French per day for 6 month, or 1 to 1,5 hours per day for a year.

Can I get B2 French in 3 months? ›

So if you follow an intensive language course with at least 20 hours of study per week (That's 4 hours a day 5 days a week) - then you can reach that level after 13 weeks, which is roughly 3 months.

Is B2 level conversational? ›

Most conversations are held at B2 level, so you can speak with natives without difficulty and with spontaneity. You can also understand the main ideas of texts about topics you are familiar with. You can express yourself fluently in almost any situation, without the need to search for expressions.

Is Duolingo a B2 level? ›

At Duolingo, we're developing our courses to get you to a level called B2, at which you can get a job in the language you're studying. Reaching that kind of proficiency requires dedication, varied practice opportunities, and a lot of time.

Can I reach B2 French with duolingo? ›

Duolingo claims users can reach B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. B2 is upper-intermediate level or basic fluency. It is considered sufficient to live and work in a country.

What is the salary of B2 French? ›

5,00,000 - 11,00,000 PA.

Can I get C1 with B2? ›

B2 First – Level C1

Exceptional candidates sometimes show ability beyond B2 level. If you achieve a scale score of 180–190 (grade A) in your exam, you will receive the First Certificate in English stating that you demonstrated ability at Level C1.

How many hours a day to learn French? ›

It will take approximately 580 hours or 23 weeks of study to reach complete French fluency. Which we could break down as the following: If you study for 1 hour every day, you can learn French in 1.5 years. If you spend 6 hours every day learning French, you can learn it in less than 100 days.

What is the hardest level of French? ›

Hardest for Beginners: Verb Conjugations

My friends and I think that newbies struggle with this because, when you first start learning, you expect to speak in full sentences. You expect basic sentences, but sentences nonetheless. And that's especially true for those learning their first non-native language.

Can I become fluent in French in a year? ›

Regardless of your definition of fluency, you'll need to practice the language if you want to master it. If you want a short answer, yes, you can become fluent in French in one year (or even less), especially if you follow the 10 steps included in the next section.

Can I learn French in 2 years? ›

Depending on your goals, native language, study method and time, and motivation, within 6 months to 3 years you should be able to speak French at a good level. It will take longer if you're following a secondary school curriculum or want to totally master French for a career in something like interpreting.

How long does it take to go from B2 to C2? ›

This test will give you a score on the CEFR scale, which has six levels from A1 to C2.
...
How long does it take to learn English?
Level of English (CEFR)Number of hours of instruction
A2 to B1300 hours
B1 to B2200 hours
B2 to C1200 hours
C1 to C2200 hours
2 more rows
Jan 25, 2019

Is B2 fluent or advanced? ›

Level guide
Anglo-Link rankCEFR*
IntermediateB1
AdvancedB2
FluentC1
ProficientC2
3 more rows

What should I read for B2 level? ›

B2 Books
  • One Hundred Years of Solitude (Mass Market Paperback) ...
  • To Kill a Mockingbird (Paperback) ...
  • 1984 (Paperback) ...
  • Little Women (Paperback) ...
  • The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #5) ...
  • The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #1) ...
  • The Titan's Curse (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #3)

How to pass B2 first? ›

Tips to succeed at Cambridge B2 First (FCE)
  1. Practice those exams skills as often as you can. ...
  2. Find your areas of weakness e.g. close questions in reading and spend a bit more time understanding how to approach the question.
  3. Keep reading – it teaches you so much and your English levels will improve.
Oct 18, 2021

Can I get B2 French in 1 year? ›

It depends how many hours you study per week and what kind of goals you set for yourself. But yes, B2 is possible within 6 months, however that would require: exposure to native speakers (even if only through TV, films or radio…

Is B2 more difficult than B1? ›

B1-B2 is easier because you don't learn as much vocabulary, it's more about idiom."

How long does it take to go from B2 to C1 German? ›

How long does it take to learn German?
Assess your current level & test your German online!Super Intensive course (30 lessons/week)
B1intermediate6 weeks
B2upper intermediate6 weeks*
C1advanced6 weeks*
C2highly competentindividual
2 more rows

Is C2 worth it over B2? ›

The LG C2 OLED is a higher-end TV than the LG B2 OLED, so it performs better overall. They have the same SDR peak brightness, but in HDR is where the C2 stands out as it gets brighter and highlights pop more. The C2 also has better gradient handling, resulting in less distracting banding while watching HDR content.

How can I increase my CEFR level? ›

You can increase your CEFR level by taking classes, reading books, watching movies, and practicing with native speakers.

How difficult is C1 French? ›

C1, your French CEFR level is “advanced”

You can express yourself spontaniously and fluently. Your use of French is efficient and flexible in all areas of your life: professionnal, social, accademic. You can speak about just about anything, including complex topics in a well structured way.

Does listening to another language in your sleep help? ›

If you're learning a language but are finding it a slow process, there may ways to speed things up. Your brain can establish links between words in two languages while you're asleep. That means sophisticated learning is possible while you're snoozing.

How do CIA agents learn languages? ›

The Defense Language Institute (Where CIA Spies Study Languages) The Defense Language Institute (“DLI”), located in Monterey, California, is where the CIA, members of the U.S. armed forces and various other government agencies go to learn foreign languages.

How long does it take to speak French fluently? ›

A relatively easy language like French should take about 480 hours of study to reach basic fluency, according to data collected by The U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI).

What level of French is Duolingo? ›

What Level can Your French Achieve with Duolingo? By learning French with Duolingo, you might expect to reach an A1 or A2 CEFR level (Common European Framework Reference), which is a beginner or elementary level.

How to learn French faster? ›

10 tips to learn French fast
  1. Watch films. Watching films in French with French subtitles is one of the best ways to learn. ...
  2. Learn with songs. ...
  3. Read. ...
  4. Find a partner. ...
  5. Don't be scared to try and make mistakes. ...
  6. Listen! ...
  7. Practice. ...
  8. Sign up for an intensive course.
Aug 12, 2016

How many hours is B2 to C1 Spanish? ›

After you've reached B2, getting to the C1 level requires you to study around 200-240 additional hours, but you may be able to do this faster or slower depending on your learning method. If you're following a very intensive path, you'll need approximately four months.

Can I learn French at 40? ›

You can become a perfectly fluent speaker of a foreign language at any age, and small imperfections of grammar or accent often just add to the charm. Learn a new language.

How long does it take to go from A1 to B2 in French? ›

Level A1 Discover the language: 90 hours/6 weeks. Level A2 Coping with everyday situations: 135 hours/9 weeks. Level B1 Managing everyday situations: 135 hours/9 weeks. Level B2 Be independent in daily and professional life: 180 hours/12 weeks.

Is Duolingo actually effective? ›

Research shows that Duolingo is an effective way to learn a language! But the truth is that no single course, app, method, or book can help you reach all your language goals.

Can you get C1 from B2 exam? ›

B2 First – Level C1

If you achieve a scale score of 180–190 (grade A) in your exam, you will receive the First Certificate in English stating that you demonstrated ability at Level C1.

How many years does it take to be a C1 in French? ›

How long to reach C1? Around 850 to 900 hours. It takes an advanced level to be comfortable with group conversations.

How do you get to C1 level in French? ›

So, if you want to improve your French to an advanced C1 level, here is what you should do:
  1. Study with level-appropriate audio to challenge your understanding. As I explained in paragraph 1, be aware of the difference between watching passively and studying. ...
  2. Read a lot, and from different sources. ...
  3. Speak French.
Mar 31, 2022

How many hours does it take to get from B2 to C1? ›

200 hours

Is B2 hard to pass? ›

DELF B2 is not hard but if you want to succeed you have to use the right structure, and grammar point at the right moment. This exam is very straight and demanding. Actually, it's good because you have to get better if you want to take it.

What is DELF B2 equivalent to? ›

The DELF B2 corresponds to the CEFR B2 describing the candidate as an independent user (CEFR is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). According to the CEFR, the candidate can follow or give a talk on a familiar topic or keep up a conversation on a fairly wide range of topics.

Do I get B2 if I fail C1? ›

Even if you fail to successfully complete C1 Advanced (CAE), you can still get a B2 level certificate that corresponds to the B2 First (FCE) exam.

How difficult is C2 in French? ›

The DALF C2, or Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française Niveau C2, is the highest achievable credential for French as a foreign language. C2 is the top level of language ability in the CEFR, or Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, after A1, A2, B1, B2, and C1.

How can I improve my French level? ›

10 tips to learn French fast
  1. Watch films. Watching films in French with French subtitles is one of the best ways to learn. ...
  2. Learn with songs. ...
  3. Read. ...
  4. Find a partner. ...
  5. Don't be scared to try and make mistakes. ...
  6. Listen! ...
  7. Practice. ...
  8. Sign up for an intensive course.
Aug 12, 2016

How many hours does it take to learn French C1? ›

C1 level: 700 to 800 hours of learning. At this level, you might be able to communicate in most situations, being fluent in French.

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