Learn English online

Around 1.5 billion people worldwide speak English. English proficiency connects you to better jobs, stronger communication, easier travel, and richer cultural experiences.

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edX delivers flexible online English courses and certificate programs that can help you build fluency regardless of your level — from English for beginners to advanced, business-focused, and exam-prep pathways.

With edX, you can learn English online on your schedule: evenings, weekends, or whenever works best for you. Offered by top universities worldwide, these English classes include video lessons, tutor support, and learner forums. They culminate in verified certificates to showcase your language mastery and help advance your career.

Top-rated English courses on edX

Learn English online with flexible, expert-led courses

Top university-backed courses

Learn English with expert instruction from Harvard, Oxford, and UC Berkeley. Earn verified certificates from these institutions.

English classes tailored to your needs

Study on your schedule with video-based courses for learners of all ages and levels, with no deadlines or live sessions.

Career and skills-based focus

Prepare for Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, improve global business communication, and develop sector-specific language skills.

Browse online English Certificates

Find new interests and advance your career opportunities

Stand out in your field

Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

Learn at your own pace

On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.

Earn a valuable credential

Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.

Certificates

Compare English learning paths on edX

Find the English learning option on edX that matches your goals, timeline, and budget.

English learning paths on edX
Program type	Who is it best for?	Typical duration	Cost range
Course	Individuals seeking short, targeted English lessons for academic writing, conversational fluency, business, interview techniques, or exam prep.	4-12 weeks	Free to audit, with optional certificate upgrade for a fee
Professional Certificate	Learners who want an in-depth, multi-course credential, whether preparing for TEFL, strengthening English as a second language (ESL) communication, or mastering business and tech-focused English.	2-10 months	$500-$1,500
Executive Education	Professionals seeking instructor-led, cohort-based leadership communication training in writing, speaking, presenting, and persuasive messaging.	6-8 weeks	$2,500-$3,500

Find the right online English course for your goals

Online English programs offer tailored paths, whether you're:

A native speaker pursuing specialized education.
A non-native speaker progressing from beginner to advanced fluency levels.
Preparing for standardized tests like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Interested in improving your English writing and communication skills for professional settings.
Looking for flexible and affordable options so you can learn at your own pace.

Tips for beginner English learners

To start your English learning journey, identify your starting point and define what success looks like for you.

Assess your level and purpose. Decide why you're learning English — whether for travel, work, cultural immersion, or academics — and choose courses (conversational, writing, or business-focused) that match your goals.
Practice consistently. After your online English classes, commit to daily quizzes, vocabulary flashcards, short writing prompts, or five-minute speaking exercises to gain confidence.
Rotate all four skills. Plan reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities each week, from news articles and podcasts to journal entries and conversation partners.
Turn your world into an English lab. Switch your devices' language to English. Watch shows with subtitles, and follow English-speaking creators.
Seek feedback. Share recordings or writing samples with peers or tutors, ask for honest critiques on pronunciation and grammar, then tweak your study plan accordingly.

Learning a new language is no easy feat. Give yourself credit for your hard work.

Turn your English skills into career opportunities

Earning a degree or advancing your English skills may lead to diverse job opportunities. Here are some career options listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) that require at least a bachelor's degree:

Editors

Editors review and improve written content for accuracy and clarity. They may work in publishing, media, or corporate communications, advancing from roles like writer or content creator. Editors often contribute to content strategy and team management.

Median annual salary (2024): $75,260

Interpreters and translators

Interpreters and translators work in settings like government agencies, healthcare, and international businesses, converting written or spoken material between English and other languages, including American Sign Language (ASL). Professionals in this field may enjoy flexibility, with opportunities for self-employment and travel.

Median annual salary (2024): $59,440

Postsecondary English and literature teachers

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in English, literature, or ESL at colleges and universities. Advancement opportunities may include moving into higher-paying administrative roles like department chair or dean.

Median annual salary (2024): $78,270

Technical writers

Technical writers produce documents — such as user manuals and instructional guides — for the technology, medical, and scientific industries. These positions generally require a bachelor's degree in English or a related area, while additional certifications may lead to specialized roles with higher earnings.

Median annual salary (2024): $91,670

Writers and authors

Writers and authors work across diverse industries, such as advertising, publishing, and nonprofits, creating content books, websites, social media, and scripts for film and television. Typical responsibilities include copywriting, content creation, grant writing, and social media management. Writers and authors may also find freelance opportunities for magazines and other publications.

Median annual salary (2024): $72,270

Ready to learn? Enroll in an online English course now

Gain the confidence and the speaking, writing, and reading skills you need to succeed in work and life.

Take an online English course to build foundational or specialized skills in just weeks.
Explore Professional Certificate programs for in-depth study and industry-recognized credentials.
Gain leadership communication skills with Executive Education programs in English communication on edX.

Explore more English programs

More opportunities for you to learn

We've added 500+ learning opportunities to create one of the world's most comprehensive free-to-degree online learning platforms.

Frequently asked questions

Which English course is best for beginners?

edX offers beginner-friendly English courses from top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Berkeley. These courses are designed for non-native speakers with little or no English experience. You'll start with essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and pronunciation, learning common words and phrases for daily use.

Can I speak English in 30 days?

You may learn useful words and phrases in 30 days, enough for basic introductions or travel. Fluency takes more time.

How long does it take to learn English?

According to the Foreign Service Institute, most learners reach basic professional fluency in English after 24-30 weeks of full-time study. With edX, you can move at your own pace, starting with beginner courses to build vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversation skills for everyday life and work.

Why learn English online?

Learning English online offers convenience and flexibility. You can study whenever you like — whether after work, in the evenings, or on weekends. edX offers free online English courses and programs that are often more affordable than in-person classes.

Some of these programs may also connect you with other learners worldwide. For those who feel shy or anxious in a traditional classroom, online learning provides a private and comfortable setting to build language skills.

Can I learn English online for free?

Yes, edX offers free online English courses, with the option to upgrade to a certificate upon completion. These courses, provided by instructors from renowned universities, cover topics from basic conversational English to specialized areas like business communication or standardized testing prep.

Last updated August 19, 2025