Timeline varies based on your starting level and study intensity. Research from the Foreign Service Institute suggests reaching conversational proficiency takes approximately 600-750 hours of focused study for native Spanish speakers—a common language background in Miami. With personalized 1-on-1 tutoring combined with consistent practice between sessions, many students progress significantly within 3-6 months, though individual pace depends on your goals, frequency of sessions, and practice outside tutoring.

One-on-one instruction gives you dedicated attention that group classes can't match—tutors tailor conversations to your specific needs, correct pronunciation and grammar in real-time, and adjust pacing based on your comfort level. In a group setting, you get limited speaking time; in personalized tutoring, every session is focused conversation. Tutors can also identify your unique challenges (whether it's understanding accents, mastering specific vocabulary, or building confidence) and address them directly rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum.

Yes—tutoring can support your preparation for tests like the TOEFL, IELTS, or CEFR assessments, which include speaking components. Tutors help you understand test formats, develop speaking strategies under timed conditions, and build the fluency and vocabulary these tests assess. However, if your primary goal is test preparation with specific score targets, discuss this upfront when connecting with a tutor so they can tailor your sessions accordingly.

Your initial session typically focuses on assessment and building rapport. A tutor will have a conversation with you to gauge your current level, identify your goals (whether you're preparing for travel, work communication, or general fluency), and determine your strengths and areas for growth. They'll ask about your learning style and what makes you feel most comfortable speaking. This information helps shape future sessions so they're directly aligned with your goals and pace.

Consistency matters more than frequency. Many students benefit from weekly or bi-weekly sessions, which provide regular speaking practice and momentum. However, the right schedule depends on your goals, budget, and how much you practice independently between sessions. Some students see progress with bi-weekly sessions and dedicated self-study, while others prefer weekly lessons for more frequent feedback. Discuss scheduling flexibility when you connect with a tutor—they can help you find a rhythm that works for your lifestyle.

Tutors are skilled at exposing you to various English accents and dialects so you can understand and communicate with speakers from different regions. Whether you're learning American English, British English, or want exposure to multiple varieties, you can discuss your preferences with a tutor. They'll also help you develop your own natural accent and speech patterns rather than forcing a specific way of speaking—the goal is clear, confident communication, not perfect accent replication.