English as a second language

English as a foreign language may be called:

• EFL: English as a foreign language (quite common) - learned in a country where English is not the primary language
• ESL: English as a second language (quite common) - learned in a country where English is the primary language
• EAL: English as an additional language (seldom)
• ESOL: English for speakers of other languages (rare)

All these terms mean roughly the same thing. The learners have some other native language, and now they want to learn English.

English is a very important language in business. Many people study English as a foreign language, because they want a better job. English is also very important in education. Many pages on the internet are in English. English as a second language is the single most popular subject in the world, after mathematics. Many people who can not go to English language classes study on the internet, using websites like BBC Learning English.

Many people study English in a country where the people speak English. This way, many students learn listening and speaking English better.

English exams

There are many English exams. These English exams are important for learners. They may show how well a person can use English. It is very difficult to compare different English exams. Every exam is a little different. Read Testing English as a foreign language for more information.

Other websites

• TESOL: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, Inc.