New research in partnership with Leanlab Education shows significant improvements in speaking, listening, and overall language learning proficiency through Preply’s 1-on-1, personalized learning model
Preply, the #1 global language learning marketplace, today unveiled the results of a new impact study in partnership with Leanlab Education, the nonprofit organization specializing in codesign education technology research.
Over the course of 12 weeks, 67 native Spanish-speaking adults participated in a Preply learning program designed to improve their English for professional growth. The results revealed significant gains in fluency, confidence, and CEFR-level progression, outpacing traditional learning timelines.
Key outcomes include:
- 1 in 3 learners improved their CEFR test scores by a full level.
- Learners progressed up to 3x faster than standard benchmarks, which typically require 160-240 hours to advance one CEFR level. Many Preply learners saw this progress in just 24-48 hours of tutoring over 12 weeks.
- 94% of learners reported feeling more fluent after completing 24+ lessons, with 97% of learners reporting feeling confident speaking English, and 94% reporting feeling confident writing in English, after completing 12 weeks of Preply lessons.
In addition to showing statistically significant improvements across all language skills including speaking, listening, writing, reading and more, 96% of learners said learning with a real person was key to their success, underscoring Preply’s commitment to personalized education.
“This study confirms what we’ve always believed. Real learning with real tutors accelerates real progress,” says Preply CEO and co-founder Kirill Bigai. “We’re proud to support learners in reaching their personal and professional goals with personalized language learning that’s proven to unlock lifechanging opportunities.”
Conducted by Leanlab Education, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming education through evidence-based innovation, the research highlights how impactful a human-centered, flexible learning model can be for adult learners navigating career transitions or global work environments.
“The results of our study with Preply suggest that with the right support, learners can expedite their English language journey,” said Katie Boody Adorno, CEO of Leanlab. “The findings underscore the value of real conversations and personalized guidance toward measurable progress.”
For additional insights, and to hear real stories from learners following their 12-week learning journeys, visit Preply’s newly launched Proven Progress Platform, a dedicated destination showcasing exactly how Preply helps learners reach their goals.
