English Study Mistakes to Avoid in the Philippines

Top 10 Common Errors International Students Make — and How to Fix Them

Studying English in the Philippines is one of the fastest, most affordable, and most immersive ways to improve your language skills. With one-on-one classes, friendly local teachers, and a tropical island setting, it sounds like the perfect environment to level up your English.

But even in paradise, students make mistakes.

Whether you’re here for two weeks or three months, some habits can seriously slow down your progress — or worse, leave you wondering, “Why didn’t my English improve as much as I hoped?”

In this article, we’ll uncover the top 10 mistakes many students make while studying English in the Philippines, and more importantly, how to avoid them so you can make the most of your experience.

Let’s dive in — and make sure you don’t repeat these errors!

1. Only Hanging Out with People from Your Own Country

It’s comforting. It’s easy. And yes — it’s a trap.

When you study abroad, especially in a place like the Philippines where many students come from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, or Vietnam, it’s tempting to stick with people who speak your native language. After all, it’s more relaxing to chat in your own language after a long day of studying English.

But here’s the problem: the more you use your native language, the less you push yourself to speak English. You end up creating a “mini version” of your home country — right inside the campus. And that defeats the whole purpose of studying abroad.

“I didn’t realize it at first, but I was speaking Japanese 80% of the time at school. I had to force myself to change my routine.”
— A former student at 3D ACADEMY

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Join multi-national activities like group classes or weekend trips. You’ll meet students from other countries and be “forced” to speak English.

• Ask roommates or classmates to speak English only, even if you share the same native language.

• Change your habits — sit with different people at meals, attend English clubs, or hang out in common areas.

At 3D ACADEMY, our student body is diverse — including learners from Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, Mongolia, Thailand, and even Africa and Latin America. That’s your chance to create a real English-speaking environment, even outside the classroom.

Remember: You didn’t come all the way to the Philippines just to stay in your comfort zone.

2. Being Afraid to Make Mistakes When Speaking

You came to the Philippines to speak English — not to stay silent, right?

And yet, many students freeze up in class or hesitate during conversations because they’re afraid of making mistakes. They worry about grammar, pronunciation, or sounding “weird.” Some even prepare full sentences in their head… only to say nothing at all.

But here’s the truth: Mistakes are not just OK — they’re necessary. In fact, the more you speak (and mess up), the faster you improve.

“Don’t worry if you make mistakes. I’m not perfect either — and I’m AI.”
— ChatGPT

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Change your mindset: Think of mistakes as progress, not problems.

• Use simple English — fluency doesn’t mean using big words, it means communicating smoothly.

• Set a goal to speak up at least once per class, even if it’s just one sentence.

At 3D ACADEMY, our teachers are trained to be supportive and patient. You’re in a judgment-free zone, where making mistakes is part of the learning journey. Plus, one-on-one classes give you the chance to practice at your own pace — without pressure from a large group.

So go ahead. Say it wrong. Laugh it off. And try again.
That’s how real progress begins.

3. Not Reviewing After Class

You just finished five classes, your brain feels like jelly, and all you want is a nap or Netflix.
We get it.

But if you don’t review what you learned on the same day, chances are… you’ll forget 70% of it by tomorrow.
(Yes, science says so.)

English learning isn’t just about attending classes — it’s about remembering, applying, and practicing what you’ve learned. Skipping review is like going to the gym but never letting your muscles recover and grow.

“Memory without review is like a fridge with no power. Everything goes bad overnight.”
— A wise 3D student

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Set a daily review time — even 20 minutes in the evening can make a big difference.

• Keep a “Daily English Notebook”: Write down new words, grammar points, or useful phrases.

• Use ChatGPT to quiz you on what you learned that day!

Hi ChatGPT, I learned some new English words today: "negotiate," "improve," and "opportunity." Please create a short review quiz for me with example sentences and fill-in-the-blank questions.

At 3D ACADEMY, your learning doesn’t end when the bell rings. With access to Wi-Fi, study lounges, and even group review sessions, you have everything you need to stay on track.

Don’t let today’s effort go to waste.
Review = Retain = Real Results.

4. Skipping Local Experiences

Some students come to the Philippines and stay… mostly inside.

They go to class, eat in the cafeteria, do their homework — and repeat. While it’s great to be serious about studying, ignoring the local culture is a missed opportunity.

Language comes alive outside the classroom. Ordering food at a local restaurant, bargaining at a market, joining a weekend island trip — these moments help you connect English with real life.

“I learned the word ‘snorkel’ in class. Then I used it for real on a boat tour!”
— A 3D student, smiling with a tan

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Join weekend activities like island hopping, hiking, or city tours. Many are organized by 3D ACADEMY.

• Eat at local restaurants or visit nearby cafes. Try ordering in English — even if the staff speaks Bisaya.

• Talk to locals: taxi drivers, baristas, shop owners. Most Filipinos are friendly and happy to chat!

And here’s a pro tip:

Hi ChatGPT, I’m going to a local Filipino restaurant this weekend. Can you help me practice a short conversation in English to order food and ask about local dishes?

At 3D ACADEMY, you’re not just in school — you’re in Cebu, one of the most vibrant islands in Southeast Asia. Make your study abroad experience unforgettable by living it to the fullest.

English is everywhere. Don’t stay stuck in your dorm!

5. Relying Too Much on Translation Apps

Translation apps are helpful — until they become a crutch.

Many students get stuck translating every single sentence from their native language into English. The result? Slow, unnatural conversations… and very little speaking confidence.

Yes, tools like Google Translate can help in emergencies. But if you rely on them too much, you’ll miss the chance to think directly in English, which is the real key to fluency.

“I once translated ‘It’s raining cats and dogs’ into Tagalog. The waiter just stared at me.”
— True story from a 3D student

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Start thinking in English, even for simple things like “I’m hungry” or “I need to do laundry.”

• Practice with sentence templates instead of translating from scratch.

• Use ChatGPT as a smart alternative — it can explain meanings and correct your sentences without auto-translating everything.

Try this simple prompt:

Hi ChatGPT, I want to stop using translation apps. Please help me practice thinking in English by giving me short daily situations and asking how I would say something in English.

At 3D ACADEMY, you’re encouraged to speak and think in English throughout your day — in class, in the dorms, and even at lunch.
It might feel uncomfortable at first, but trust us: that’s where the magic happens.

6. Choosing the Wrong Course Type

Not all English courses are created equal — and not all students need the same thing.

Some students choose a course with too few classes and regret not having enough speaking time. Others go for the most intense option, only to feel overwhelmed and burned out by Day 3.

Choosing the wrong course type can lead to frustration, wasted money, and slower progress.

“I wanted to focus on speaking, but I didn’t realize I had chosen a course with lots of group classes.”
— A student who later switched to more man-to-man at 3D

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Ask yourself: What’s my goal? (Fluency? Test prep? Business English?)

• Be honest about your energy level and study habits. Some people thrive on 9 classes/day. Others need breathing room.

• Talk to your coordinator before arrival — and adjust during the first week if needed.

At 3D ACADEMY, we offer a range of flexible course types:

• Mini ESL: 3 man-to-man + 2 group classes (5 classes total)

• General ESL: 4 man-to-man + 3 group classes (7 total)

• Intensive ESL: 5 man-to-man + 3 group classes (8 total)

• Platinum ESL: 6 man-to-man + 3 group classes (9 total)

You can also request a “man-to-man only” version of any course — same price, just no group classes.

Need help choosing? Ask ChatGPT before booking:

Hi ChatGPT, I want to study English in the Philippines. I’m not sure which course to choose. I prefer one-on-one classes and want to focus on speaking. Can you help me decide the best course structure for me?

Choosing the right course = setting yourself up for success.
Don’t leave it to chance.

7. Not Practicing English Outside the Classroom

You study hard during class.
But after class… do you go silent?

Many students treat English like a “school subject” — only used between 8 AM and 5 PM. But language doesn’t grow that way. If you don’t use it, you lose it.

Outside the classroom is where fluency really begins — in the dorm, at the café, during meals, even on the basketball court.

️ “I started talking with my roommates in English every night. That’s when I really got more confident.”
— A 3D ACADEMY student from Vietnam

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Make English your default language — even when talking with friends who speak your language.

• Use English in casual settings: ordering coffee, asking for directions, chatting in the dorm.

• Create a daily practice habit — even 10 minutes helps.

You can also use ChatGPT as a daily practice partner:

Hi ChatGPT, I want to practice casual English conversation after class. Please talk to me like a friendly roommate. Ask me simple questions about my day.

At 3D ACADEMY, English isn’t just for class.
You’re surrounded by opportunities to use it — don’t let them pass by.

Speak more. Fear less. Grow faster.

8. Staying in a Room with Too Many Roommates

Shared rooms are great for saving money and meeting people — but they’re not for everyone.

If you’re a light sleeper, easily distracted, or need quiet time to review after class, staying in a room with 4 or 6 roommates can quickly become a nightmare. Snoring, late-night TikTok sessions, and noisy video calls are all part of the experience.

And when you’re tired and stressed, your ability to focus and speak English goes way down.

“I chose a 6-person room to save money, but I couldn’t sleep for three nights in a row.
I ended up switching to a 2-person room.”
— A student who learned the hard way

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Know your personality: Are you okay with noise and shared space?

• Consider your goals: If you’re serious about studying, invest in a quiet environment.

• Upgrade if needed — better rest = better learning.

At 3D ACADEMY, you can choose from:

• 1-person, 2-person, 3-person rooms in our on-campus dormitory

• 4- and 6-person rooms (budget-friendly, but lively!)

• Private hotel-type external dorms for extra privacy and comfort

Need help deciding your room type? ChatGPT can help:

Hi ChatGPT, I’m going to study English in Cebu. I’m not sure if I should choose a shared dorm room or a private room. Can you help me think about the pros and cons?

Your room is more than just a bed — it’s your recharge station.
Choose wisely, and your study experience will be 10x better.

9. Not Asking Questions in Class

You’re in a one-on-one class.
You don’t understand something.
But instead of asking… you just nod and pretend.

Sound familiar?

Many students feel shy or embarrassed to ask questions, especially in front of teachers. But at 3D ACADEMY, classes are designed to be interactive and student-centered. If you’re not asking questions, you’re not using one of the biggest advantages of studying here.

❓ “I thought the teacher would think I was stupid. But when I finally asked, she was so happy I spoke up.”
— A student from Korea

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Remember: Teachers are here to help — not judge.

• Prepare 1–2 questions before each class, based on your self-study or review.

• Use simple phrases like:

  • “Can you explain that again?”

  • “What does this word mean?”

  • “Is this sentence natural?”

You can also use ChatGPT to prepare your questions:

Hi ChatGPT, I’m studying English with a teacher. Please give me 5 simple and natural questions I can ask during class when I don’t understand something.

Asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a sign that you’re truly learning.

So speak up. Your teacher is listening.

10. Thinking One Month Is Enough to Become Fluent

We get this question all the time:
“Can I become fluent in English in one month?”

Short answer? No.
Long answer? Also no.

While one month in the Philippines can give your English a serious boost — especially with man-to-man lessons every day — it’s not a magic spell. Fluency takes time, practice, and consistency.

The danger is expecting too much, too fast. When students don’t feel “fluent” after four weeks, they get discouraged… even though they actually improved a lot.

⏳ “I couldn’t speak at all on Day 1. After 4 weeks, I could have conversations. That’s real progress.”
— A 3D student from Thailand

✅ How to Avoid This:

• Set realistic goals: “Improve speaking confidence” is better than “be fluent.”

• Track small wins: new phrases, better pronunciation, faster responses.

• Continue after your course — with apps, ChatGPT, or online lessons.

Here’s a prompt to help you reflect on your progress:

Hi ChatGPT, I just finished one month of English study in the Philippines. Please help me reflect on what I’ve learned and what I should do next to keep improving.

One month isn’t the finish line — it’s the launch pad.
At 3D ACADEMY, we’ll help you make the most of every single day.
Just remember: fluency is a journey, not a deadline.

Final Thoughts｜Learn Smart, Not Just Hard

Studying English in the Philippines is a powerful opportunity — but it’s not just about showing up and sitting in class.

Avoiding these 10 common mistakes can make the difference between a “just okay” study abroad and a truly transformative experience.

Remember:

• Don’t isolate yourself in your language bubble.

• Don’t fear mistakes — welcome them.

• Review, practice, and live in English every day.

• Choose the right course and environment for you.

• Be realistic, but stay motivated.

At 3D ACADEMY, we offer more than just classes — we offer a community, a lifestyle, and a smart learning system designed for real results. With one-on-one lessons, flexible course design, and students from all over Asia and beyond, this is the perfect place to build your confidence and your future in English.

So pack your notebook, open your mind, and let’s make your study abroad truly count.

See you in Cebu!