– Author of this Blog
I know the fear of the unknown — and the thrill of a new beginning. As a 2025 Russian Government Scholar and BAPO special intern, I share what I’ve learned to help you move forward.
In this world, there are more than 7000 languages. Nowadays it's not enough for people to know only their mother language; they need to know a second or third language. In fact it's more important for people who want to study, work or travel to another country to learn another language. There are many apps, websites or YouTube playlists that can teach us another language for free of cost.
In this blog, we dive deep into focus on websites, apps and other hacks to learn a new language in an easy way for free of cost.
Most of the south Asian students need to move abroad for study, work or to travel around the world. In fact, in most of the cases people don’t need to learn a third language as most of us learn English as our second language and English is more than enough if you move to an English speaking country like the UK or USA or if you are traveling to a country for a short period of time. But if you are moving for your education or job, you need to know their Native language. For example, Someone studying in Japan needs to know Japanese language, Even though their study curriculum is in English, they need Japanese to survive, travel and seek advice from a Japanese person. There is a saying that studying abroad is thrilling—until you realize you can’t understand the local language. Otherwise, there would be a language barrier among native people and foreign students.
“Learning a new language is like becoming another person.” — Haruki Murakami
Language barriers are obstacles that prevent individuals from effectively communicating due to differences in language and linguistic abilities. These barriers can occur in various contexts, making it essential to understand their types and consequences. Most common cause is that they have not learnt the language in a proper way. As a result, they struggle in their life abroad.
A student who speaks a different language may face challenges in understanding course materials and communicating with teachers and peers in another foreign country. This can be a great obstacle in their academic progress and overall learning experience.
“When I first arrived in France, I struggled to communicate even simple things. But once I started learning French, doors began opening – academically, socially, and emotionally.” — Ananya Das, International Student from India
English is an international language. Almost 2.3 Billion people can speak this language. That's why most of us learn only English and believe it's sufficient enough for us. But for most of us, we need to learn a third language to survive in another non-English speaking country. In fact, there are only 67 countries where English is an official language. But, still we need a third language for many countries whether it's Korea, Japan, Russia, Germany or most other parts of Europe. They all have their own language. If you have decided to study in a country where English is not spoken widely you need to know a third language to communicate with the locals, understand their lessons in class and other activities.
There are many opportunities that are open for a student or working professional if they master the native language of that country. While English is a global language having a third language proficiency can help you in longer run. There are 5 more reasons why you should learn a new language:
Speaking Korean helped me make friends faster when I moved to Hanyang University in South Korea for my Bachelor’s. Locals appreciated that I made the effort.” — Subhadip Barua, Student from Bangladesh.
1. There are many apps that teach basic language for free:
2.There are many website and courses that teach different language for free of cost:
3.Youtube for learning
There are other channels that teach language according to their niche. Check out the best channels according to the language you want to learn.
4. There are many other resources that can help you speak in a better way apps like Hello talk, Reddit community(r/languagelearning, r/writestreak). Check these out to be fluent in a foreign language .
5.Use the “3 word daily rule” . learn at least 3 new words every single day. By the end of the month you should have a good vocabulary of words.
6.Use “Shadowing technique” in this technique. Listening to podcasts or YouTube videos repeatedly will improve your accent in a short time and with less hassle.
7. Don't pay to any apps or language tutor before using apps free version or before getting some feedback from the previous students. It can save you from big financial trouble.
Yes, there are emerging technologies like language translation apps and AI-powered interpreters that can assist in overcoming language barriers, especially in healthcare and business settings. These tools are becoming increasingly accessible and effective in bridging communication gaps. But still there we need to try to learn a new language and it is more effective than any other technology. But, still if you are unable to learn a new language then you can take help from these technologies.
There is a quote by Leila Chen, Former Exchange Student in Korea
“Even the best translation apps can’t replace the confidence and connection you get when you speak the local language yourself.”
Just remember “You don’t need money—just consistency and the right free tools."
Language barriers can be challenging, but with dedication and consistency you can overcome the language barrier. Learning a second or third language isn't just about adding another skill, it is about expanding your mind, career, and cultural horizons. Effective communication is needed in many aspects of life, and breaking down language barriers opens doors to new opportunities, deeper understanding, and stronger connections.
Below are a few resources you might find useful:
…as well as several others not listed here.