<![CDATA[In English as a foreign language (EFL) learning, friendship circles can provide informal spaces for interaction and speaking practice beyond the classroom. This study analyses students’ perceptions of the role of friendship circles in English speaking skills development. A descriptive quantitative survey involved 139 fourth-semester English Education students from three universities in Central Sulawesi, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a four-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Speaking 2 and Speaking 3 course grades provided supporting descriptive information about students’ achievement in speaking courses. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations in Jamovi. Students reported positive perceptions of emotional support, interaction intensity, peer feedback and correction, and learning support within friendship circles. They also perceived positive development in fluency, accuracy, confidence, speaking comfort, and the ability to express ideas. The main finding indicates that students perceived their friendship circles as supportive environments for English speaking practice that complement formal classroom learning. These findings may inform teachers’ planning of speaking activities that incorporate peer support and provide opportunities for practice.]]>
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