Worried about your English for study abroad? Want to continue learning English even after returning home?
These are common concerns we hear regularly. The good news is that there’s no minimum English requirement for most study abroad programs. Most language schools offer general English courses from beginner to advanced levels, allowing enrollment regardless of your current English ability.
💡 Important Note: If you plan to take specialized courses like business English, IELTS preparation, or other non-general English programs, there are specific English requirements for admission. Make sure to check and improve your English level beforehand if you’re targeting specific courses!
Table of Contents
- Top English Learning Apps
- Best Learning Websites
- Learn Through Movies & Videos
- Secret Weapon #1: Translation Tools
- Secret Weapon #2: AI Learning
- Duolingo English Test Information
- Our Learning Support
Top English Learning Apps: Convenient Mobile Learning
1. HelloTalk
Connect with native speakers for real conversation practice. The ability to actually connect with native speakers through the app is a unique advantage that AI can’t replicate.
2. Speak
Practice speaking with AI, featuring cutting-edge AI technology in partnership with OpenAI. Speaking is like “muscle training,” and this app provides perfect practice opportunities.
3. Plang
A conversation app for intermediate+ learners, featuring AI-driven curriculum and shadowing techniques for advanced practice.
Note: This content contains affiliate links.
Find Your Perfect Learning Method: Top 5 Websites
1. Randall’s ESL Cyber Listening Lab
A quiz-based listening training site. For first-time study abroad students, we recommend starting with the very first “Easy” level problems!
2. Talk English
Useful for everyone from first-time study abroad students to those wanting to learn business English. Great for practicing basic expressions by speaking them aloud.
3. Breaking News English
A site that helps improve reading and grammar skills. Each article isn’t too long, so we recommend tackling one per day to build your skills gradually!
4. IELTS Liz
For those preparing for IELTS exams. While there are many IELTS courses, checking out IELTS Liz provides tons of exam tips and strategies.
5. BBC Learning English
BBC’s English learning site, slightly more advanced. Perfect for those who want to maintain their English skills after returning home!
Bonus: IELTS Practice Tests – For those preparing for IELTS who want to get familiar with the test format. Understanding the test format is crucial for exam preparation!
Learn Through Movies & Videos
Movies and videos offer excellent opportunities to hear English and learn useful expressions. Children’s animations are particularly great because they use simpler expressions that are actually usable in daily conversation.
1. Netflix
Many non-English content can be dubbed in English, with comprehensive English and Japanese subtitles available. We recommend watching children’s content in English with English subtitles for the best learning experience!
2. Cocomelon (YouTube & Netflix)
A program packed with songs sung by English-speaking children. The lyrics are all expressions you can use in daily conversation.
3. Blippi (YouTube & Netflix)
Another children’s program introducing play and experiments for kids. Since it’s aimed at children, the English spoken consists of practical, usable expressions.
Secret Weapon #1: Best Translation Site
While translation should be used as a learning aid rather than a crutch, it’s incredibly helpful for discovering new expressions when you’re unsure how to say something. Most people use Google Translate, but our top recommendation is the lesser-known site DeepL.
Why DeepL? It currently supports 26 languages, including perfect English-Japanese translation. The key is to use it consciously to improve your English skills rather than becoming dependent on it.
Pro Tip: Use it to check if your English writing translates to your intended Japanese meaning, then translate that Japanese back to English to see what expressions appear. This approach helps you learn new expressions and identify mistakes, leading to improved English skills.
Secret Weapon #2: Ask AI!
ChatGPT isn’t just for finding information – it’s excellent for practicing English conversation in chat format! Even if you make mistakes, you’re talking to a machine, and you can ask if it’s correct or request more formal or casual expressions. Recommended for intermediate+ learners!
Duolingo English Test Information
While there are various English tests like TOEFL and IELTS, our current top recommendation is the Duolingo English Test! It can be taken online and costs less than traditional tests. Unless you’re specifically familiar with TOEFL or have thoroughly prepared for IELTS, Duolingo is currently our recommended English test.
📖 Learn More: Detailed Duolingo English Test Information
Our English Learning Support
GO AND SEE’s support goes beyond just handling admission procedures and life consultations. We want to support your desire to become fluent in English, achieve your goals, and fulfill your dreams. Whether you’re preparing before departure or studying while attending school locally, we’re always here to help with English learning questions and consultations.
Ready to Improve Your English?
Contact us for free consultation with no pressure or mailing list subscriptions. We’re here to help you achieve your English learning goals!