Thread: Do you agree with the FSI estimate that it takes 1100 hours to learn Russian?

The FSI (Foreign Service Institute) is the American agency that teaches languages to US diplomats. They categorize Russian as category IV language, meaning it takes 1100 hours to achieve "General Professional Proficiency".

I just started studying Russian, so I guess I'll start tracking my hours in a notebook and let you all know after 1100 hours of study.

Originally Posted by Churchill

The FSI (Foreign Service Institute) is the American agency that teaches languages to US diplomats.

Never heard American diplomat speaking Russian but Canadian one was pretty good. What do Canadian sources say about hours?

Originally Posted by hddscan

Never heard American diplomat speaking Russian but Canadian one was pretty good. What do Canadian sources say about hours?

That might've been because it might've been an American diplomat disguised as a Canadian. =)))

Originally Posted by Eric C.

That might've been because it might've been an American diplomat disguised as a Canadian. =)))

As a Canadian ambassador? It is too much of a stretch.

Originally Posted by hddscan

As a Canadian ambassador? It is too much of a stretch.

Who knows where the limit for pushing the limits is =))

Seems to be true.

From my experience, you achieve a basic proficiency in some skill (language, boxing, chess etc etc) after three years of everyday practicing. 365x3x1hour may be enough.