Learn Vietnamese (Beginner Roadmap)
To start learning Vietnamese, choose the Northern or Southern accent you expect to use with family, friends, at work or when travelling. Practise its sounds and tones with audio, then follow the Vietnamese A1 course to use vocabulary and grammar in everyday situations. Keep the free guides nearby for reference as you study.
How to start learning Vietnamese
Choose an accent, begin listening and repeating, then use the A1 lessons to put words into context. Keep practising pronunciation as you move through the course.
1. Choose your accent
Think about who you want to speak with. Choose Northern or Southern Vietnamese to match your family, friends, workplace or travel plans. Listen to examples, then use one accent as your model when practising.
2. Practise sounds and tones
Use the pronunciation guide to listen to vowels, consonants and tones in your chosen accent. Repeat a short example, then compare it with the audio. Check both the sound and its tone mark; use the syllable chart when you need help with spelling.
3. Follow the Vietnamese A1 course
Begin with greetings, names and introductions, then work through everyday situations in a set order. The self-paced A1 course combines vocabulary and grammar with listening, speaking, reading and writing practice. Pronunciation lines include Northern and Southern model audio.
See the A1 course outline
Free references to use alongside the course
Look up a pattern or word when you need it, then return to your lesson and practise it in context.
Grammar for your first sentences
Check an explanation and its examples when a sentence pattern is unfamiliar.
Vocabulary by frequency
Find common words with English meanings. Choose words that fit your current lesson and practise using them in sentences.
Beginner guide
Read an introduction to Vietnamese sounds, grammar and everyday phrases.
Syllable chart
Check Vietnamese spelling and tone-mark placement while you practise pronunciation.
Add feedback from a teacher
A teacher can help you check pronunciation and practise conversation. Live lessons are arranged separately from the self-paced A1 course.
FAQ: learning Vietnamese
What should I learn first in Vietnamese?
To start learning Vietnamese, choose the Northern or Southern accent you expect to use with family, friends, at work or when travelling. Practise its sounds and tones with audio, then follow the Vietnamese A1 course to use vocabulary and grammar in everyday situations. Keep the free guides nearby for reference as you study.
Do I need to choose Northern or Southern Vietnamese first?
Choose the accent used by the people you expect to speak with. Use that accent for your initial listening and speaking practice. The pronunciation guide and A1 course include Northern and Southern model audio, so you can listen to both while keeping one as your practice model.
Do I need to master tones before starting the A1 course?
You can keep practising tones alongside the A1 lessons. Begin by listening to a model, repeating a short line and comparing your pronunciation. Return to the pronunciation guide when a sound or tone needs more practice.
How long does it take to learn Vietnamese?
There is no single timetable for every beginner. Your goal, previous experience and opportunities to practise all affect your progress. Start with a practical task, such as introducing yourself, and revisit it through listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Should I start lessons with a Vietnamese teacher as a beginner?
A teacher can give feedback on your sounds and tones and help you practise conversation. The A1 course is self-paced; live lessons with a teacher are arranged separately.