A Critical Analysis of the Optimal Age for Starting EnglishLanguage Learning in Iranian Schools

This study investigated the optimal age for starting to learn English as a foreign language (EFL) in Iranianschools. A quantitative methodology was employed, and data was collected using the Oxford placement test.The study sample consisted of ۱۰۰ Iranian students (all male) divided into two groups, first group consistedof ۵۰ students with an average age of ۱۲ years old who started learning English from first grade (age ۷).The second group consisted of ۵۰ students with an average age of ۱۸ years old who started learning Englishin seventh grade (age ۱۳). The results of the study indicated that starting to learn English from elementaryschool was more effective than starting at the current age in high school. The findings suggest that earlyexposure to English language learning can enhance students' language proficiency and enable them toachieve better academic outcomes. Therefore, it is recommended that English language learning should beintroduced at an earlier age in Iranian schools.