Where is the best place to learn English? Past Big Ben. Where to go to learn English if you don’t have money for London

It is difficult to survive without English in the modern world. And that’s why every year thousands of people of all ages sit down at their desks. Some of them prefer to go to the country of the language they are learning in order to immerse themselves in the environment and finally overcome the language barrier. Where is the best place to go and what awaits students in each English-speaking country?

19/5/2009

Great Britain

When thinking about learning English, the first thing everyone remembers, of course, is Foggy Albion, where they will teach British English - the classical version of the language. For those who want to improve, deepen their knowledge, and hone their pronunciation, it makes sense to go to this country. It’s not far to fly, and you can buy cheaper air tickets. Among the disadvantages are the difficulties in obtaining a visa: consular officials are quite unpredictable and can refuse anyone, even regardless of income level. In addition, life in the UK is expensive, and therefore it will not be possible to organize language practice for pennies. But you can also find quite economical courses in this country - about 180 pounds for a week of residential training. It is in England that students will find the best value for money.

USA

You can go to native speakers living overseas. Learning American English is necessary, first of all, for those who work with companies from the States, as well as for those who, having mastered British English at a very good level, want to improve. There are many language schools for young people in the USA. Experts point out that flying to America is, of course, far away and, therefore, expensive, but prices locally are lower than in the UK. And therefore, in general, such a trip does not cost much more than to the shores of the English Channel.

Canada

Everything is the same as in the case of the USA, getting to this country is far and expensive, but the prices for training are quite humane, the cost of language programs and accommodation is low. Experts note that native speakers have good, clear, understandable pronunciation; another advantage of Canada is the decent quality of education. Schoolchildren are sent on summer holidays to learn the language in this beautiful and safe country with a high standard of living. Many special camps are organized for them, where language learning is combined with sports and excursions.

Australia

Very few people travel to the most remote continent to learn English. The cost of such a voyage is high, the flight is long, and representatives of travel agencies call the visa “one of the most difficult.” For those who decide to take this step, a foreign language is most likely not the main thing. Their goal is the Great Barrier Reef, nature reserves, Sydney. Why not add English to admiring the local beauties? To study, people go to this country for long internships, or even with the intention of further employment. In language centers they will try to teach classical English, but immersion in the language environment is important for mastery, and local residents speak their own dialect of English, informally called “Strine”. It is closer to British than to American, but there are pronunciation features and its own words.

Malta

In this land, English, along with Maltese, is the official language. According to experts, Malta is a country for those who want to combine relaxation with something useful. It is not suitable for long-term academic study. The ideal option is to combine a holiday at sea with easy courses. This is an inexpensive summer destination where schoolchildren and students are sent on vacation, and where parents and children go. But our teachers then note a peculiar “Maltese” touch in their students. Other experts disagree. The schools are not taught by Maltese, the English work there, and therefore the characteristic pronunciation of students can be avoided, they claim. However, careless offspring can easily find a social circle that is inappropriate from a linguistic point of view: many Maltese have married women from Russia, and their children speak excellent Russian. In addition, the country has a large number of immigrants from Egypt, Libya, and Morocco with their own specific pronunciation.

Other countries

English courses can be organized in any country. And that’s why our people go to Spain, Turkey, and even Latin America to improve their language skills. Teachers from England with an impeccable British accent, working according to certified English methods, can work there. However, we should not forget that immersion in the language environment is important for learning - for which, in fact, it is worth going somewhere. In non-English-speaking countries this is not the case, and therefore such courses can only be considered as an addition to the holiday.

One of the major obstacles to moving to the country is the language barrier. One way or another, you will have to speak the local language and interact with the population.

However, at first, in most countries of the world, knowledge of English comes to the rescue. Selfmadetrip presents to your attention the Education First English Proficiency Index, which named the countries where this language is spoken as a native language.

Main conclusions

More than 750 thousand adults from 63 countries took part in the testing. Based on the results of the 2014 rating, the following conclusions were made:

• All over the world, the level of English proficiency among adults is increasing, but this statement does not apply to all countries and peoples;
• women master the language better than men, which directly affects their work activity;
• Europe leads in terms of English mastery;
• in most cases, countries in Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa demonstrate low levels of English proficiency;
• Among Asian countries, the level of language acquisition is extremely heterogeneous: in some places it is very high, and in others there is complete stagnation;
• there is a clear relationship between the degree of English mastery and quality of life, income level, business involvement, and Internet use and duration of schooling.

In general, European countries lead the overall ranking in terms of language proficiency index:

1. Denmark - 69.30
2. Netherlands - 68, 98
3. Sweden - 67, 80
4. Finland - 64.39
5. Norway - 64.32
6. Poland -64.26
7. Austria - 63.21
8. Estonia - 61.39
9. Belgium - 61.20
10. Germany - 60.88

Russia

Our country ranks 36th in the world and 22nd among European countries. Russians demonstrate a fairly low level of language proficiency: 50.43. At the same time, in federal cities it is much higher. Women's English proficiency is higher than that of men, and English proficiency among young people aged 18 to 24 is comparable to the global average. Information on indexing of all regions of the Russian Federation can be obtained. Thus, residents of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk and Vladivostok demonstrate the highest level.

English language and business

An increasing number of companies conduct their business in English. Those who resist this become uncompetitive. Companies such as Nokia, Rakuten, Renault and Samsung have made English their corporate language. There are several reasons why you should follow their example:

• successful promotion in the global market;
• minimizing losses due to misunderstandings;
• increasing company profits.

English language and quality of life

In many developing countries, knowing English is seen as a luxury. It is taught at the proper level only in private schools and universities. This is largely because language proficiency plays a central role in future employment and professional success. Given the growing importance of English in the world, in 15 years, knowledge of English will be considered a mandatory requirement for job seekers. At the moment, the countries that are leading in the overall ranking of 2014 are also leading in the Human Development Index and the Economic Prosperity Index.

Today, more and more people are choosing a promising path to study and practice English – learning the language abroad. In a language environment, it is much easier and indeed much faster to learn English. The time frame, of course, is individual for everyone: for some, two weeks are enough to fit into the surrounding conditions, for others it takes about a month to feel confident, and for others, sometimes even six months. In any case, it doesn't really matter that much. The main thing is the result!

We bring to your attention a list of countries where you can learn English. Let's consider them from the point of view of ease of obtaining a visa, quality of education, cost of training, opportunities for interesting pastime and working conditions.

Great Britain

This country rightfully receives a well-deserved first place in learning English abroad.Obtaining a UK visa will not be an easy task. When submitting documents to the visa center, unfortunately, you will not be given a 100% guarantee of approval. Therefore, be prepared to collect everything that seems at first glance, even unnecessary certificates/documents. And only after 2-3 weeks you will be able to find out the result. And if you are lucky with a visa, start choosing a place of study and an educational program.

Why are courses in England so popular? This is because their quality and effectiveness are unconditional. Classic English is about Great Britain. The variety of educational institutions and programs allows you to choose the most suitable ones for yourself. You can start with either a basic course or an advanced one, preferring individual or group training. In addition, the topics of the lessons can be completely different: suitable for both schoolchildren and businessmen. The cost may vary depending on the city, place of residence - campus or homestay - and, in fact, the courses themselves. The approximate minimum amount you will have to pay is: 500 pounds (600 euros)(during the week).

As for spending time in England, you won’t be bored here! Cathedrals, museums, theaters, parks, pubs, cobbled streets... everything breathes history. Travel and entrance fees are not cheap, so it’s worth considering a part-time job. But the possibility of such is determined by the state, depending on the duration of your studies in the country. Study all the nuances, because in some cases you may pay for non-compliance with laws
10 thousand pounds.

Ireland

Continuing British traditions and introducing modern techniques into the learning process, this picturesque country is an excellent choice for improving English. Although not as classic as in England. But it’s an interesting experience getting to know different dialects.

Obtaining a visa, provided you have all the necessary and certified documents, is not as difficult as for the UK. But there is also some luck in this for everyone.

Language centers and individual courses offer students various programs under the guidance of highly qualified teachers who are followers of the British education system. But at the same time, the cost of training is slightly cheaper. The city, place of residence, and course focus are also taken into account. Approximate minimum amount per week – 250 euros.

Since 2015, students have been officially allowed to work in Ireland. But don’t put work experience ahead of conversational experience; Remember that the main thing for you is learning the language abroad.

Friendly people, a high standard of living, the possibility of part-time work while studying, as well as traveling around the incredibly beautiful island make Ireland a desirable place to visit.

USA

Studying abroad in English naturally involves visiting America. Students have the opportunity not only to get to know the country, but also to experience the differences between English and American in practice.

Regarding visas: US Immigration and Nationality Law considers all those wishing to enter the States as potential immigrants. Therefore, make sure to collect all documents (identity, education, bank statements, etc.) and provide specific additional information about your trip in the application form.

The choice of places to study English is, one might say, unlimited. From Washington to Florida, from California to New York. This is a lot of freedom... You can choose the intensity of attending classes individually and combine it with part-time work, because in the USA there are so many places that you want to see, and for this you need money. Tuition and accommodation will cost approximately 400 dollars (350 euros) and more per week.

Canada

Canada is very popular among students when choosing to study English abroad for adults. The cost of language programs here is quite affordable, and the quality is no less high than in other countries.

To obtain a visa, you must comply with all strict requirements and provide all kinds of documents for consideration. After 10 working days, the golden key is in your pocket.

In English language courses, you can choose the following programs: general English, intensive, preparation for international exams, short-term summer/winter courses. When living on campus or with a host family, choosing one or another type of education, be prepared to pay from 300 Canadian dollars (200 euros) weekly.

Part-time work in Canada is possible. Having proven yourself to be a diligent employee, formal offers to extend the contract are also possible. But at the same time, many schools limit or prohibit part-time work for their students.

Of course, you should not miss the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this amazing country. And travel around its expanses with new friends!

DO YOU WANT TO LEARN ENGLISH IN 6 MONTHS?

Australia

Obtaining a visa to Australia has become significantly easier over the past 3 years. Applications can be submitted online, but this does not affect the number of documents required. Particular attention is paid to the completeness of the package provided, and the absence of any document entails a refusal of a visa.

The system of language courses offers standard study programs and uses modern technologies, teaching students to develop thinking in group and individual classes, and to use this practice in everyday life. Thus, bringing the level of knowledge and use of English to a higher level.

Living and studying in Australia is expensive. Pay per week is approx. from 900 euros during the week.

But as for work, it all depends on the type of visa. Do not take risks with illegal earnings, but prepare for your trip in advance and consider various opportunities for your comfortable stay in the country.

And, of course, if possible, visit the magnificent natural attractions of Australia. They are unique and will definitely leave you with the brightest memories!

Switzerland

Switzerland is a country of quality education, international diplomas and enormous opportunities.

A visa can be obtained by providing and submitting the necessary documents, confirming your intention to visit the country and waiting from 10 to 14 days.

When you arrive in one of the cities in Switzerland, you can choose an English course: general, intensive, standard, individual. In any case, you will have the opportunity to improve your level of written and spoken English. The cost of programs and accommodation starts from 2 thousand euros.

But it’s worth thinking about work in advance. After all, only those who have a Swiss diploma can get a job without any problems. Employers give preference to their compatriots. And in order to get a prestigious job, you need to prepare documents confirming your indispensability in a specific workplace. But for temporary unskilled work, you can get a permit quite quickly and without problems.

You can spend your free time playing sports or visiting amazing sights. The trip will become an invaluable experience and a pleasant memory, and maybe even a great future!

New Zealand

For many, New Zealand remains a distant, mysterious place. And not everyone knows that anyone can learn English here, choosing the duration of study and programs on their own.

For Ukrainians, obtaining a visa will take a long time. Why? Because the New Zealand embassy, ​​which deals with issues of Ukrainian citizens, is located in Russia. In any case, you will need a package of documents, insurance and other mandatory certificates.

General English course, specialized course, preparation for exams - native-speaking teachers guarantee the high quality of the knowledge gained. And daily practice will help you quickly find new friends and get comfortable in a new environment. Training and accommodation will cost you a minimum 700 euros in Week.

Long-term study, more than six months, will allow you to easily find a job and thus accumulate funds for travel. Types of recreation in New Zealand are very diverse: hiking, excursions to volcanoes, glaciers, relaxation on the beaches of the Pacific Ocean...

Singapore

An original choice not only for language practice, but also for exploring the world is a visit to Singapore. You will have to apply for a visa only through the Asia Visa Application Center (the embassy is located in Moscow) and the airlines Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Pony Express accredited by the embassy.

Students are given a wide range of training programs to choose from: from basic level to preparation for international exams. Their quality is not inferior to European ones, although their cost is not the cheapest. Payment is from 600 dollars (500 euros) and higher, depending on the intensity of the course and place of residence.

If you really want, you can find an interesting job that will allow you to earn enough money for a comfortable stay in the country, walking and spending leisure time.

Malta

A sunny Mediterranean paradise, Malta is a great place to learn English in a relaxed atmosphere.

In order to obtain a visa, you need to provide a general Schengen package of documents, pay a standard fee and – you’re done.

About 80% of the population speaks English on the island. Language courses here are distinguished by reasonable prices, but no less high-quality programs. Students can choose a general or intensive course, business English, preparation for international exams, while creating their own schedule, the total duration of study and the type of study: individually or in a group. The place of residence can be either a dormitory of an educational institution or accommodation with a Maltese family. The cost for one week starts approximately from 150 euros.

If you really want, you can find a part-time job on the island, but is it necessary... There are such clean beaches, clear sea, amazing scenery and carefree fun from night until morning. But you still need to be able to organize the educational process and leisure time so as not to miss anything and get the expected benefits from your stay abroad!

South Africa

If we talk about in-depth study of English, it is recommended to choose one of the above countries. Well, if you want to practice “other” English, then go to Africa. The preparation of documents will be as diligent as for the British Embassy: you will need a lot of certificates, papers on financial solvency, tickets, etc.

Learning English will indeed be unusual. Programs for any level of knowledge, the possibility of learning individually and in a group, daily practice will help increase the degree of use of a foreign language in everyday life, in relaxed communication.

Language courses and accommodation are cheaper here - from 150 euros during the week. If you want to earn extra money, you’ll have to look hard. Free time can be devoted to exploring extraordinary natural attractions, the history of African culture and meeting new people.

Evaluate all the pros and cons, be consistent. When collecting documents, think in advance about what you will study, where you will live, what places you would like to visit and the amount of expected expenses. Choose wisely. Come improve your language level in special courses. We will be glad to see you at Native English School

If you are asked where is the best place to learn a language, you will immediately answer “Not at home!” and you will be absolutely right. If you want to speak English fluently, go outside of Russia and study it in the country where it is spoken.

It would seem that the choice is clear - for English to England, for German - to Germany. But what if you have only one vacation and have absolutely no desire to spend it under the gloomy sky of London or Berlin, but want sun, adventure and language practice. It's time to remember exotic countries.

Especially for those who are ready for an extraordinary trip and want to practice their spoken English, we have selected five of the most exotic options from around the world. Studying here can be combined with a variety of hobbies, parties, excursions and sports.

South Africa - a fashionable destination for students from Europe

Studying in South Africa has already become a kind of fashion for students from Europe, but Russians are just taking a closer look at language courses in Africa. What caused such interest among Europeans in education in this country? The answer is quite simple - prices. If we ignore the cost of tickets, the price of training here is quite low. And, of course, the important fact is that almost everyone speaks English in South Africa.

Most often, students choose schools located in large cities - for example, in Cape Town or Durban, where branches of world-famous language schools are located.

School located in the heart of Cape Town English Language Center is located just a few blocks from the longest street, Long Street, famous not only for its length, but also for its antique shops, galleries, bars and discos. The school offers several courses, both for general language development and for exam preparation, a business course and English for work.

The English Language Center has developed programs for youth and adults with any level of English. The school regularly hosts events where both students and teachers are invited for casual socializing: an evening at the pub or going to the cinema, going to Lion Mountain and swimming with sharks. And on weekends you can go on a safari.

Cost of education: from 500 euros for 2 weeks

Philippines - English in a tropical paradise

The motto of the Philippines is “rest and learn!” Snow-white beaches for those who like to bask in the sun, mountains with tropical forests, inexpensive spa treatments, a rich underwater world, and a rich entertainment program make staying here extremely enjoyable. The variety of Philippine dive sites will delight even the most demanding divers: numerous schools of fish, extensive coral reefs, sheer cliffs covered with sponges and rocky ledges.

The Philippines is also rich in attractions. For example, on the island of Mactan you can walk the path of Ferdinand Magellan. It is here that the historical site is located where local tribes under the leadership of the leader Lapu-Lapu fought against the conquistadors of Magellan, and where Lapu-Lapu killed the great explorer.

In the Philippines, a former American colony, they are ready to offer language courses several times cheaper than in the USA. But don't think that cheap means bad. Of course, the level of English here is not the same as in the States, but schools carefully monitor the quality of training and teaching staff. In addition, it is very pleasant here to combine activities with a beach holiday.

The language school Cleverlearn English Language Institute (CELI) is located on the island of Cebu, near the airport. There are resort hotels within walking distance, so between studies you can swim, snorkel or just stroll along the beach.

English language teaching here is structured in such a way that students speak and actively participate in the discussion of the topic, practicing spoken English. Every week there are events where you can actively chat and make interesting acquaintances. The school has students from South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand, China, Brazil, Russia and the Near and Middle East.

The school provides accommodation in the Cleverlearn Residences, where there is the minimum necessary for a comfortable stay: air conditioning, cable TV, bathroom (shower) and free Wi-Fi connection.

Cost of education: from 895 USD for 4 weeks (minimum training period)

Singapore - studying in the city of the future

Singapore is often called the "city of the future" and a lot of this has to do with education. Universities of this small Asian country are increasingly included in the lists of the best universities in the world. As a result, there are several reasons why it is worth going to study a language in Singapore: high standards of education, low cost of training, English is the official language.

Finally, Singapore can offer a variety of shopping, interesting entertainment, the opportunity to see the Asian world from the inside and meet interesting people from all over the world. In addition, Singapore is one of the ten safest countries on the planet.

London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) Located in the city center, all of Singapore's attractions are within easy reach. The school is under the patronage of Prince Michael of Kent, cousin of Queen Elizabeth II.

LSBF offers general English courses and language with an emphasis on business vocabulary - there are programs for both beginners and active speakers. The entire educational process is aimed at active practice. By studying at LSBF, you receive not only the most modern skills, but also useful contacts with other students from more than 150 countries.

Cost of education: from S$960 for 2 weeks

Australia: lifestyle, kangaroos and English practice

Australia is an attractive country and has a lot of advantages. These include high-quality education at a relatively low cost, a high standard of living, stunning nature and plenty of entertainment. You can expect to get acquainted with Aboriginal culture, nightlife in big cities, diving on the Great Barrier Reef, rafting, matches of local teams or the opera in Sydney.

Kaplan International Colleges is the local branch of an international network of more than 40 educational institutions. English courses are available in six Australian cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Cairns. During classes, students actively communicate, study tenses, write essays, and play games. The learning process takes place in a comfortable and friendly environment.

When choosing a program, you should also decide on the city: some people like to enjoy silence, while others like noisy parties or surfing. For example, fans of the Moscow rhythm will like Sydney, but Adelaide will be appreciated by lovers of small, calm cities.

Cost of education: from AUD 560 for 2 weeks

New Zealand - landscapes, adrenaline and English

“The whole planet in one country” is how travelers often describe New Zealand. Compared to Russia, this is a very small country, which is not difficult to get around by car. But at the same time, completely different natural spaces await you - glaciers, volcanoes, forests, deserts and fjords - all this is located nearby, as if someone wanted to preserve a small piece of pristine nature at the edge of the earth.

Tourists come here not only to admire the beauty, but also for extreme sensations. If you want to try high-altitude jumping - bungee jumping, then you won't find a better place. The bravest ones will experience a “free fall” into the abyss from the 134-meter peak.

Thanks to New Zealand's remoteness, the classic language spoken by the British aristocracy has been preserved. Moreover, the cost of education is much lower than in the UK.

School Kaplan in Auckland located between two picturesque bays - Waitemata and Manukau, so it won't take long to get to the stunning beaches after classes. Those who like to spend time actively will find diving, surfing, extinct volcanoes and many unexplored places. Here they don’t just teach the language, but immerse them in the local culture. Training takes place not only in classrooms, but also on beaches, in the mountains, on yachts. Those who prefer to party and socialize can practice their spoken English to the lively music of numerous discos.

The school offers a wide range of courses - from conversational English to business English and preparation for language exams. The advantages include the ability to determine the duration of your training yourself. You can live with a local family or in a residence with other Kaplan students.

Cost of education: from 700 New Zealand dollars for 2 weeks

So, there are several English-speaking countries - Great Britain, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malta, Ireland. The question is - where is there to learn English (let’s imagine that you have already exhausted all the resources to improve your level of English in your home country, and the question of studying abroad has arisen)? Let's consider everything according to the following criteria:

1. Quality and efficiency,
2. Price,
3. Remoteness/convenience of getting to the country,
4. The quality of English in the country,
5. Obtaining a visa.

English in the UK

A wonderful country with excellent (naturally) English and wild prices. In Great Britain they teach well. All reviews from students who studied there are positive. The English teachers are truly native speakers, no emigrants, the level of organization is very high. The only question is that in the UK there are a lot of schools with additional enrollment, i.e. The composition of the class will constantly change and, therefore, there will be no clear curriculum.

The cost of teaching English is exactly the same as the cost of teaching English in the UK should be. Huge. Ireland and New Zealand (without tickets) will be one and a half times cheaper. Malta - at two.

There are usually no problems with obtaining a visa for students planning to study English in the UK if you have all your documents in order, have reasons to return home and have money. English is how England makes money. Not letting a student in means losing money for the budget.

But living here is expensive, as is studying. What did you want?

USA

The quality of English language schools here is the same as in the UK. Excellent. They teach well. The only exceptions are special fake schools, which seem to teach, but in fact they only draw up documents for people who want to somehow stay longer in the USA. How to understand whether you are going to a normal school or not - look at the price of education. Anything less than $800 a month is fake. But this is rare. Basically it can be said that the USA is a great place to learn English and have a good time.

Yes, it's not cheap here either. Cheaper than in England, but the difference is compensated by a more expensive air ticket. It’s clear, then fly on.

Regarding the US visa, if your documents look good, something is keeping you in Russia, and your passport is full of stamps from decent countries, then you will be given a visa. If something is wrong, they can send it. Here the Americans are quick to take revenge and do not regret refusals.

It is better to live in the USA as a student at an English language school on a university campus or rent a room with neighbors. If the city is not a metropolis, then it will be about $300 per month.

And don’t go to learn English in New York. There are not many people there who speak English from birth.

Canada

Canada is a good country, with good cities, English language and schools where it is taught. There are not many schools, because Canada is not the most popular place for English studies. But if you come here, you will like it. The main thing is to take care of the visa - you can only get it if your documents are excellent and you have a good tourist history.

Australia and New Zealand

So, if you decide to study English in New Zealand or Australia, then first imagine how far it is. Introduced? Doesn't it scare you? Go ahead. Both of these countries have a very high level of education and English language schools, especially at universities. New Zealand is especially trying. Schools are not always cheap (at US level) or good. Australia has a somewhat peculiar, clipped English accent, so be prepared.

Visas are usually issued without problems. If you want to become a New Zealand or Australian student, you are a good source of income for these countries, and therefore they will love you.

Ireland

A country with a peculiar English accent, but much cheaper than England. There are many English schools in Ireland, almost all of them are additional ones, i.e. On Mondays, new students will appear in your group. The quality of English teaching in Ireland is good, prices are reasonable, and getting there is easy. Challenges are given to all decent people, and the procedure does not cause any special problems.

Malta

Beautiful island. A beautiful story, everything is beautiful, but you can only learn English there. No more. For Maltese schools, English is more of a hobby for earning money than a serious, exhausting study. The sea is too close, there are too many restaurants and bars to study. Getting a visa is easy and the prices are moderate. Quality is not a question about Malta.

And finally. Let’s imagine you have 300 thousand rubles and you want to teach them a lesson (similar to the word “drink away”). In England, this 300 thousand will be enough for you to study for three weeks (or rather 2), including accommodation and tickets. In the USA - easily last a month or a month and a half. In New Zealand or Australia, 6-7 weeks are enough, and Ireland will accept you for English courses for 2-3 months. Malta... it’s better to go to Malta just as a tourist.