Reaching an advanced level in French can be a challenge. However, I have had the pleasure to teach people around the world who after only one or two years of French definitely had an advanced level of French.

How to take your French to the advanced level?

Grammar is crucial!
Invest time learning French grammar. Start learning conjugation, the differences between the tenses, prepositions. Once you have a good basis in grammar, it is easier to move on to more complex sentence structures.

Increasing your vocabulary
Learn French vocabulary according to a context. Some words are more used in a particular area than others. Learn synonyms, antonyms. There are usually several ways of saying the same things, but at a different level.

Reading in French
Classic French literature might still be difficult, even for an advanced student. They should start with 20th or 21st century authors, read French newspapers or magazines.

Traveling to France and/or speaking with native-French people
Learning a language is mainly used to communicate. Spending time in France and speaking with locals are probably the most effective way to learn French idioms and get more familiar with the language.

Take some French lessons to help you
Even if you spend time in France or another French speaking country, make sure to take French lessons to reinforce what you’ve learned and to progress more quickly.

What to do once you’ve reached the advanced level?

Practice is the key. A lot of my students complain that they used to speak French perfectly and that now it’s very difficult for them to have a conversation in French. Don’t let this happen to you if you have reached the advanced level. Practice at least once a week with a friend, a teacher, watch French programs on TV or on the Internet, regularly read news in French.

Some of you might even want to prepare for a French exam like the DALF C1 or C2. This have several advantages. First, it will structure your learning around the different requirements of the exam. Then, you will get a recognized diploma to prove your level to employers or universities. Eventually, it will motivate you do go even further with your French.