How long does it typically take to acquire Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS)?

Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) usually take about 2 years to develop in individuals who are learning a new language or trying to communicate in a new cultural context. This timeframe is generally accepted within the field of applied linguistics and education, where BICS refers to the skills needed for everyday conversation and informal communication. Factors contributing to this timeframe include the learner's exposure to the language, their social interactions, the complexity of the language being learned, and their previous language acquisition experiences.

After approximately 2 years, individuals can generally expect to engage in basic conversations, understand common expressions, and effectively communicate in social settings, which contrasts with the longer period required for Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP), which takes approximately 5 to 7 years to develop. Understanding this distinction helps practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology to set appropriate goals and expectations for language learners.