The Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language in Middle School

Imagine you’re in a gorgeous foreign country, having a blast exploring and discovering new things. Everything is perfect! Except...you don’t know the native language, so you can’t order food from anywhere. Or make friends with your table neighbors. Or even ask where the bathroom is!

Relying on Google Translate may stand in the way of authentic moments.

Learning a foreign language is super important—and not just for travel (although travel can be a big part of it!). There are tons of benefits of learning a foreign language in middle school, as well as a couple of pitfalls to avoid. Read on for advice on both!

Is it too early to think about language learning?

It’s never too early to start learning a language. In fact, studies show that the younger you can start learning a language, the better. You’ll acquire the language much more easily and have less of an accent overall. Anybody can learn a language, but younger brains are just more suited to it! The best time to learn a language is yesterday, and the second best time is now.

Does middle school foreign language count towards college?

It’s common to wonder whether foreign language in middle school counts toward college. The answer? It depends! Middle school foreign language credits mostly apply in high school.

If you take language classes in middle school, you’ll likely start in the “level 2” class in high school. Of course, this may vary from state to state and school district to district, so it’s best to ask your guidance counselor at school about this.

Starting at a more advanced language level in high school (thanks to your experience in middle school) gives you a jumpstart on language requirements for graduation, increasing your chances of taking AP language or even an SAT subject test for that language. And AP credits and SAT subject tests can count a lot towards college credit!

So, taking middle school foreign language classes counts toward college in an indirect—but important—way.

5 pros and cons of learning a foreign language in middle school

1. Pro: It looks great on college applications!

One of the benefits of learning a foreign language in middle school is that it contributes to high school language classes, which look great on college applications. Colleges will love seeing your commitment to learning a new language from a young age. Depending on where the college is located (hello foreign colleges!), your language skills may give you an extra boost.

2. Con: It’s a lot of hard work.

Learning a language is no joke. Becoming truly fluent will require hard work and dedication as well as a lot of repetition! It will take time to feel like you’re making progress, and that’s okay. It’ll make it even more worth it when you master a tricky phrase or have your first conversation fully in another language. Take the little wins and keep on chugging away.

3. Pro: You’ll improve your confidence and skills—for normal life and for traveling!

Trust us—learning how to speak a new language will make you feel like you can do ANYTHING.

One of the benefits of learning a foreign language at an early age is that it improves your confidence, both overall and in regards to language and travel. It’s hard to learn a foreign language, which means you’ll feel that much more accomplished when you do it! Taking a foreign language in middle school will teach you that you can do hard things, a lesson you can take with you for your whole life.

In addition to the overall confidence boost, being in a foreign country can feel a bit intimidating at first. Knowing the language will help you feel confident in your ability to navigate social and professional situations. You’ll be able to order at restaurants or barter at flea markets. The possibilities are endless when you learn a foreign language in middle school.

4. Con: Travel is only easier in the countries that speak that language.

Learning a foreign language is great for travel! ...Traveling in foreign countries that speak that one specific language, that is. It’s great to learn Spanish, but Spanish might not help you if you want to travel to Germany!

The bottom line? Keep in mind your dream destinations when choosing which language you want to learn. This will give you more motivation to study and learn, as well as more places to practice your language skills—and that’s what we call a win-win.

5. Pro: You can study abroad in high school!

Studying abroad in high school will (literally) open up your entire world.

If you start learning a language now, you’ll be extra ready to study abroad in high school. Depending on how passionate you are, you might even consider studying abroad in middle school! One of the benefits of learning a foreign language at an early age is that opens up your travel possibilities immensely, sooner. Plus, language learning is a great answer for your parents when they ask why on Earth you want to travel halfway around the world at such a young age.

3 middle school foreign language programs to consider

Are you convinced and ready to take your language learning on the road right now? Or maybe just need some ideas to save for later? Here are three programs to explore that cater to teenage learners.

1. Teen Language Camp in Salamanca, Spain with Greenheart

Why it rocks: This program takes place in Salamanca, Spain, where you’ll stay with your very own host family (yay, extra chances to practice language!). This program also features daily language classes taught by native speakers. The class sizes stay under 12 students, meaning tons of personalized attention. Plus, any skill level is accepted! You can also choose how long you want to stay, with options from 1 to 6 weeks. Greenheart’s Teen Language Camp is a great option for teens passionate about learning Spanish.

2. Volunteer and Adventure Experience in Nepal with GVI

Why it rocks: You’ll experience more than just language immersion with this program by GVI. Volunteers will stay in a traditional Nepali village, complete with breath-taking mountain backdrops. There will be daily language classes in the village, followed by volunteer construction projects. Basically, you’ll learn the language, experience the culture, and make a difference at the same time!

3. Nice, France: French Immersion Summer Program with Abbey Road Programs

Why it rocks: If France is more your jam, this program is for you! You’ll stay for five weeks in Nice, France, taking elective classes as well as language classes. Many of the language classes will include practicing French by interacting with locals. This program also includes cooking classes where you’ll practice French by trying out traditional French recipes.

Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get matched with 5 language programs abroad

You might not have to learn a language in middle school—but you should!

You’ll be ecstatic that you took the time to learn such a vital (and interesting) new skill!

Knowing a foreign language may seem redundant now that we have translating apps, but it’s actually incredibly important! Learning a foreign language can help you interact more smoothly with people abroad. It can also help you understand the ins and outs of a culture in a way you might not have had you never learned the language. It boosts your confidence and overall experiences, and helps you make amazing memories for years to come. College admissions—watch out!