I just learned the alphabet in Arabic and I already have several Arabic language partners. I feel it is never to early. The people here are very nice and they will help you not only with the French you know, but they will also help you learn more French. And it's good that you have professionals to help you if there is something that your language partner can't explain.

That's the same thing it happens to me and the most people (sorry for possible mistakes. I'm practicing my english).

In my country (Chile) a few people speak other language (include english), because of that it's too difficult to improve, even more speaking and listening skills.

When you can write and read the most important ideas, enough to not need to search many words in the dictionary, then you should start to have speaking conversations, with native speakers as much as possible.

I hope you are successful :)

Hi!

I definitely think that sooner is better. I know from experience that when you learn a language without speaking it you can get "stuck" on a pronunciation that you think is right but that's kind of weird. If you feel embarrassed or that it's too soon, just try listening to French podcasts or watching movies and tv-shows with english subtitles or French subtitles if you're feeling ambitious. That's what I did and I thinks it helps tremendously.

Above all, even though your vocabulary may be limited you can still speak with people who have a good grasp of English, it would be mutually beneficial.

If you're interested, contact me.

Bye

I think the favorable point to choose a language partner to practice is totally determined by your DEMAND and his SUPPLY . For instance, if you do not have enough vocabulary to make sentences , you need a tutor to help you improve and master you vocabulary . Then after, you need to evaluate which way is more efficient and if your language partners can offer your demand. Once you find you can master your vocabulary on you own , to seek for a tutor can be later and vice versa . Language partner is very critical for your learning , but rather in most situation , you do not have too many choices for your partners . So , my suggestion is just take a look at what your partners can give you , decide you are going to ask your partners to help you . A personal tutor seems no such a problem as you can ask for your teachers anyway  .

I have no problem in English since I am upper intermediate. In French its different, I think I should pass the begginer level befor Istart to find French partners. I study alone though. But its still useful to speak to language partner whatever you are begginer or not.

Good Luck