Learning English in Pakistan can unlock better career prospects, access to higher education, and stronger global connections. Whether you want to excel in an international job, qualify for a scholarship, or confidently speak with people from different countries, fluency in English is a powerful skill. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune—many affordable and free options exist across Pakistan, from language institutes to online courses.
Why Learn English in Pakistan
English is Pakistan’s second official language and the primary medium in higher education, corporate communication, and international trade. Learning it can:
- Boost career potential in IT, education, customer service, and business.
- Enable higher education by meeting IELTS/TOEFL requirements.
- Expand global connectivity for remote work, freelancing, and e-commerce.
- Enhance cultural understanding through books, films, and travel opportunities.
Cost Snapshot for Learning English in Pakistan
| Item | Typical Price (PKR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Group class (per month) | 5,000–15,000 | Language centres, universities |
| Private tutor (per hour) | 1,000–3,000 | Higher for Business English/IELTS prep |
| IELTS test | 59,000–62,000 | British Council, AEO, IDP |
| TOEFL iBT | 52,000–55,000 | ETS-approved centres |
| Public library membership | Free–2,000 | Access to English books/events |
| English clubs | Free–1,000 | Community meetups, speaking groups |
Best Cities in Pakistan to Learn English
Karachi
Home to the Pakistan American Cultural Centre (PACC), Berlitz, British Council, and active language clubs.
Lahore
British Council, NUML, and Punjab University language clubs offer structured and affordable programmes.
Islamabad
NUML main campus, Berlitz, British Council, and a growing number of private academies.
Faisalabad
Public library programmes and private academies serving students and professionals.
Peshawar
University-led English workshops and NGO-led literacy initiatives.
Where to Learn English in Pakistan
Language Schools & Institutions
- British Council Pakistan – General English, Business English, IELTS preparation.
- NUML – Certificates, diplomas, and advanced English courses.
- Berlitz – Conversational fluency and corporate training.
Community & Free Programmes
- Public libraries like Liaquat Memorial Library (Karachi) – Books, workshops, and events.
- NGOs such as The Citizens Foundation – Literacy and spoken English projects.
- University language centres – Affordable student-focused courses.
Online Learning Options
- Duolingo, Memrise – Vocabulary and grammar practice.
- BBC Learning English – Listening, pronunciation, idioms.
- Alison, Coursera – Free and low-cost structured courses.
Job and Career Opportunities with English in Pakistan
Strong English skills can directly translate into better job opportunities and higher pay.
- Call Centres & BPOs – Salaries up to 30–50% higher for fluent speakers.
- Tourism & Hospitality – Front desk and guide roles pay more for English fluency.
- IT & Software Development – Bilingual developers and project managers earn premium rates.
- Teaching & Tutoring – Private and online English teachers can charge PKR 1,000–3,000/hour.
💡 Example: An entry-level call centre agent may earn PKR 40,000/month. With advanced English, the same role can rise to PKR 60,000–70,000 plus bonuses.
Exam Preparation in Pakistan
IELTS
Offered by British Council, AEO, and IDP, with free prep resources and mock tests.
TOEFL iBT
Available at ETS-authorised centres in major cities.
Cambridge English Exams
Offered at select test centres for various proficiency levels.
Preparation options include official study guides, British Council webinars, and online practice platforms.
Starter Pack for English Learners in Pakistan
- Apps – Duolingo, ELSA Speak, BBC Learning English.
- Free Meetups – University clubs, Facebook groups like “English Speaking Club Pakistan.”
- Local YouTube Channels – Learn English with Gill (Pakistan-focused content), English with Nadia.
Effective Practice Strategies
- Join conversation clubs or online exchanges via HelloTalk or Tandem.
- Use media immersion – watch Netflix with English subtitles, listen to BBC podcasts.
- Set micro-goals – such as learning 10 new words a day or completing one grammar module a week.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Fear of speaking – Start with online exchanges before public events.
- Limited time – Use 10–15 minute study bursts during commutes or breaks.
- Motivation drops – Track progress with apps and reward yourself for milestones.
Daily English Practice Ideas in Pakistan
- Read one English news article daily (Dawn, The News).
- Listen to 10 minutes of English audio in the morning.
- Change your phone and social media settings to English.
- Volunteer at events with international visitors.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Learning English in Pakistan is more accessible than ever with free online tools, affordable classes, and vibrant language communities. To start:
- Set a clear goal—career, study, or personal growth.
- Choose a mix of free and paid resources.
- Create a consistent study schedule.
- Immerse yourself daily in English content.
With persistence, you’ll improve your language skills and open doors to better jobs, higher salaries, and global opportunities.
