Busuu
Busuu is a London-based language learning app and website, founded in 2008 and now owned by Chegg. It teaches 14 languages through short, self-paced lessons written by language experts, backed by feedback from native speakers in its community. You can start on the free tier and move to Premium if you want the full course library.
About Busuu
Languages and levels
The course list includes French, Spanish, German, Italian and Portuguese, along with Dutch, Japanese, Chinese and English. Lessons are mapped to the CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference), the international measure of language level. Finishing a level can earn a Busuu certificate. Every course mixes speaking, listening, reading and writing, with checkpoint quizzes to track progress.
How the learning works
Lessons are bite-sized and self-paced. Videos feature native speakers, pronunciation feedback is personalised, and grammar practice uses AI. The community side lets you swap corrections with native speakers of the language you are learning. Busuu also runs language programmes for employers who want to train staff.
Free versus Premium
The free version gives limited access. Premium unlocks every course, offline lessons and personalised study plans, and a free trial lets you test it first. Subscriptions can be cancelled at any time, but refund terms vary depending on the platform you subscribed through. The app runs on iOS and Android as well as in a web browser. Payment options include Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Busuu quick facts
| Delivery | Busuu is a digital subscription service. Access is instant upon signing up. Available on iOS, Android, and web browsers with offline access for premium subscribers. |
|---|---|
| Returns | Busuu offers a free tier and free trial of premium features. Subscriptions can be cancelled at any time. Refund policies vary by platform. |
| Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Headquarters | London (also Madrid) |
| Parent company | Chegg |
| Stores | Digital platform only |
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Busuu FAQs
Can I use Busuu offline?
Yes, with a Premium subscription. Offline access is one of the paid features, along with the full course library and personalised study plans.
Can I cancel a Busuu subscription?
Yes, subscriptions can be cancelled at any time. Refund policies vary depending on the platform you used to subscribe, so check the terms there.
Does Busuu give certificates?
Yes. Completing a level can earn a Busuu certificate, and lessons follow the CEFR scale, so you can see where your level sits.
Which devices does Busuu work on?
Busuu runs on iOS and Android devices and in web browsers, and access starts as soon as you sign up.