Foreign language learning anxiety in preparatory school students contributing factors

English is the most commonly preferred language among foreign language speakers. Throughout the world, when people with different languages come together they commonly use English to communicate. But, of course, learners may encounter many difficulties while learning an English language. This qualitative study has two aims: one of them was to state preparation school students? English learning anxiety reasons and the other one has been to identify learners? suggestions to alleviate their anxiety. The study was carried out at the preparation department of Çağ University in Mersin. The data was gathered through interviews with eighty learners whose ages were between 18 and 22. Results have demonstrated that there are four anxiety-provoking situations among the learners. These are; tests, speaking in front of others, reading a text aloud and answering the teachers? questions. Fear of negative evaluation from peers and fear of being laughed at by other students, teachers? attitudes, students? personalities, lack of preparation and course materials are the reasons that affect learners negatively during the English lessons. According to the findings, there are some recommendations that may help students alleviate anxiety.