Blog, 4/02/2025
After finishing high school, it is very common to find oneself in a transitional stage, where new doors open towards university, the job market, or even the possibility of traveling. In this context, having a good level of English in Barcelona is key to taking advantage of all these opportunities. However, we often realize that the level acquired during this school phase is not sufficient to face challenges such as interviews in English, certification exams, or simply communicating fluently.
If you relate to this, don’t worry: improving your English after high school is entirely possible with discipline, good resources, and clear strategies. Below, we share 5 effective tips to help your English evolve along with you.
First of all, what English level do you get with high school in Barcelona (Spain)?
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), upon finishing high school, students should have reached a B1 or B2 level, depending on various factors such as the focus of the educational institution, the bilingual program (if any), and the hours of exposure to the language.
These levels are defined as follows:
- B1 (Intermediate): Ability to understand and produce simple texts, maintain basic conversations, and handle everyday situations.
- B2 (Upper-intermediate): Ability to understand more complex texts, have a fluent conversation, and defend opinions with clear arguments.
However, it is important to note that finishing high school does not automatically grant an official English certificate; it simply certifies that you have studied the language to a certain level. Keep this in mind!
However, it is important to note that finishing high school does not automatically grant an official English certificate; it simply certifies that you have studied the language at a certain level. Keep this in mind!
Having an English certificate will not only help you academically, but it is also highly valued in the job market. Furthermore, many Spanish and foreign universities require an official certificate for access to certain programs, and more and more companies consider it an essential requirement when hiring new employees.
How to improve your English after high school? Here are 5 tips:
1. Assess your current level with a free test
The first step in understanding your English knowledge is knowing where you stand. To clear up your doubts, you can determine your level by taking our free level tests to quickly find out your current proficiency.
Once you know your results, set clear goals. For example:
- If you’re at A2, you could aim to reach B1 in 6 months.
- If you’re already at B1, focus on reaching B2, a level considered “upper-intermediate.”
Having a specific goal will help keep you motivated and measure your progress.
2. Immerse yourself in the language: make English part of your daily life in Barcelona
Barcelona is a multilingual city. One of the best ways to improve your English is to expose yourself to the language as much as possible. After high school, you have more freedom to choose how and when to learn, so take advantage of it! Here are some ideas:
- Series and movies in English: Choose content you enjoy and turn on English subtitles. This will help improve your listening comprehension and learn common expressions. Some easy-to-follow series are Friends and How I Met Your Mother.
- Music and podcasts: Listen to songs in English and try to understand the lyrics. You can also subscribe to educational podcasts like The English We Speak (BBC Learning English).
- Change the language on your devices: Set your phone, social media, and apps to English to familiarize yourself with everyday vocabulary.
Read in English: Start with books, blogs, or articles adapted to your level. Short stories and young adult books are great options for beginners.
The more exposure you have to the language, the faster you’ll notice improvements in your comprehension and vocabulary.
3. Active practice: speak and write regularly
One of the biggest challenges once we know our level and want to improve after finishing high school is developing the confidence to speak and write. However, both skills are essential to achieving fluency.
How to improve your speaking?
- Speak to yourself and record yourself: Although it may seem strange, practicing out loud is very effective. Describe what you are doing, your plans, or even your emotions in English.
- Look for language exchanges online: Use platforms that connect you with native speakers or English learners who also want to practice.
Take conversation classes at a language school: Specific courses at language schools with tutors where you can have conversations, either offline or online, can help you correct mistakes and gain confidence.
How to improve your writing?
- Write a diary: Dedicate 5-10 minutes a day to write about your activities, thoughts, or goals in English. Or even with your friends on WhatsApp!
- Participate on social media: Comment in English on posts about topics that interest you.
Use tools like Grammarly: These platforms help you identify and correct mistakes in your texts.
Remember, making mistakes is part of the learning process, so don’t be afraid to try.
4. Prepare for an international certification
Obtaining an official English certificate can open many doors, both academically and professionally, especially in Barcelona, where there are many international startups. Additionally, preparing for such an exam will give you a structured approach to improve your level. Some of the most popular certifications are:
- Cambridge (PET, FCE, CAE): Perfect for demonstrating general skills depending on your level.
- TOEFL or IELTS: Required to study or work in English-speaking countries.
- Duolingo English Test: More accessible and faster, with growing acceptance in universities.
To prepare, you can enroll in English courses tailored to your needs, use preparation books, or practice online with exam simulations. As you study, not only will you improve your English level, but you will also gain confidence to demonstrate it.
5. Study abroad or participate in language immersion programs
If you have the opportunity, studying abroad or participating in an exchange program is one of the most effective ways to improve your English. Being surrounded by native speakers will force you to use the language constantly and adapt quickly to real-life situations.
Some options include:
- Summer courses in English-speaking countries: Organizations like EF (Education First) offer programs for young people that include classes and cultural activities.
- Work and Travel: This program allows you to work temporarily in countries like the United States, helping you improve your English while gaining work experience.
- Scholarships or university exchange programs: Check if the universities you’re interested in have international agreements or programs like Erasmus+.
If you can’t travel, you can also look for immersion programs in your country, such as English camps or intensive workshops.
Final Thoughts
Did you finish high school and are now looking for new goals? Once you know your level, improving it can be the next step for your academic studies. Assess your level, immerse yourself in the language, practice actively, prepare for certifications, and find an English course in Barcelona like the one you’ll find at our academy to continue evolving in this journey.
Never forget to enjoy the process: learning a language is an enriching experience that will open doors in all aspects of your personal and professional life.
Start today and give your English a boost to reach all your new goals!
