This study aims to explore the challenges faced by PBI students at UIN Ar-Raniry in using imitation strategy to improve their speaking skills. Imitation involves copying native speakers’ pronunciation, intonation, and sentence patterns to build fluency. The research used a qualitative method, with questionnaires to select participants and structured interviews with 10 students from the 2021 and 2022 batches. The findings revealed several challenges such as fast or unclear speech from native speakers, pronunciation difficulties, limited listening skills, and unfamiliar accents. One participant showed awareness of grammar use, while another reported no major difficulties. To overcome these issues, students used subtitles, repeated lines, and slowed down videos. The study concludes that imitation is a helpful strategy for improving speaking skills, especially when supported with proper tools and guidance. It can be a valuable method for learners, teachers, and researchers in the field of English language education.