Can You Study Abroad if You Don't Know the Language?

Does Studying Abroad Give You Fluence?

I know lots of people say that when they go abroad, they come back basically fluent in the language. However, it really depends on how much you want to step out of your comfort zone and how long you spend abroad. For example, many programs and universities offer courses in English, making it easy to get away with never speaking the local language. Additionally, by going with a program it would be easy to only hang out with other English speakers from your home country. However, actually getting better in your target language requires lots of practice and putting yourself out there.

Yet, this doesn't mean you need to be worried about being a beginner speaker. You can study abroad at any level really (I had people in my program who were native speakers and people who were beginners). Many countries have locals that can speak English but the ones that don't are usually pretty patient and will work with you until your message gets across. In reality, you don't need crazy advanced language skills to order food, buy tickets, or to do anything else necessary abroad. You just need enough language to be able to get your message across.