How Long Does It Take to Learn Russian?
Learning Russian is a challenge — but a rewarding one. So, how long does it take to learn Russian? Let’s break it down using CEFR levels (A1 to C2), with realistic timelines and smart tips for learning faster.
🕒 CEFR Levels and Time Estimates
🧩 A1 (Beginner)
~100–150 hours — greetings, simple phrases, and basic survival Russian.📘 A2 (Elementary)
~200–250 hours — everyday conversations and common topics.🗣️ B1 (Intermediate)
~400–600 hours — talk about travel, hobbies, work, and opinions.🎧 B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
~600–800 hours — deeper discussions and media comprehension.🧠 C1 (Advanced)
~1000–1200 hours — fluency in complex and professional contexts.🏆 C2 (Mastery)
1500+ hours — near-native fluency. Optional unless truly needed.⚡ What Affects Your Learning Speed?
- Your Native Language: Slavic speakers learn faster. English speakers can too — it just takes practice.
- Consistency: 1 hour daily beats 5 hours weekly. Build the habit, not the burnout.
- Study Methods: Immersion, interaction, and vocab-focused learning all help.
- Motivation: A strong reason = long-term success. Stay curious, stay consistent.
📚 Find the Right Vocab for Your Level
Want to learn Russian vocabulary by level? Use books that match your CEFR stage — no filler, just the words that move you forward.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Reaching fluency in Russian isn’t about perfection — it’s about persistence. Most learners can hold conversations (B1) in 12–18 months. C1 may take 2–4 years depending on method, time, and motivation.
Ready to dive in? Your first sentence in Russian is closer than you think.
