English exchange partners near me

An English exchange partner is a native English speaker who wants to learn your language. You help each other. It costs nothing, and it works because both of you want the same thing.

What you need

• A language you speak well enough to help someone.
• English as the language you are learning.
• Half an hour or an hour, once a week or so.

How to find one nearby

Nearly Fluent shows members near you. They speak English and want to learn your language.

1. Join free with your email.
2. Add the languages you speak and the ones you are learning.
3. Look at the best fits. Members in your own town rank higher.
4. Say hello. The app suggests a first message you can edit.
5. If they say yes, chat in the app and agree where to meet.

Ask your partner to speak slowly if you need it. You can also say "Could you say that again?" as often as you like.

Where to meet

Choose a public place, such as a café. Nearly Fluent members meet in public places, and tables are hosted in cafés and pubs. Pay for your own drink. Tell a friend where you are going.

How to split the time

Half an hour in English, then half an hour in your language. Use a timer on your phone so the swap happens. The first table cards explain a 15 minute switch and give topics.

If there is no one near you yet

Nearly Fluent is small. Check back, or host a table yourself. A table needs a café, a time and a few people. Read how to host a language table.

Not sure of your level?

Take the English level quiz. It takes about two minutes and suggests the kind of table to look for.

More reading

Preparing for a test? See free English speaking practice for the B1 test. Also see English practice in London, language exchange etiquette and language exchange for newcomers to London.