ESL (English as a Second Language) refers to students learning English in an English-speaking country, whereas EFL (English as a Foreign Language) applies to students learning English in their home country. ESL students are immersed in an English environment and acquire the language used by the local community, while EFL students experience limited exposure to spoken English outside the classroom. This distinction highlights the different contexts and experiences of learners in relation to the English language.

1. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ESL AND EFL
English as a Second Language English as a Foreign Language
English is a primary national language. English is not the native language.
ESL students learn English in a foreign
country, where it is the predominant
language.
EFL students learn English in their
home country.
ESL students are already living in an
English-speaking environment.
EFL students live in non-native
English-speaking nation.
ESL students will learn the particular
language variety of an English
Community.
EFL students will learn English as their
first language but they may not have
significant exposure to spoken English
outside the classroom environment.