The article discusses the concepts of competence, competency and the competency-based approach in education system. The role of the competency-based approach in foreign language teaching. The article defines the most effective methods and techniques of teaching a foreign language. The types of competencies are revealed, the formation of which will ensure the development of the ability and readiness to solve communicative tasks in the field of professional activity in a foreign language. The key competencies are considered, which suggest that the student has a high level of initiative, organizational abilities, willingness to submit an objective assessment and analysis of their actions. Key competencies are considered relevant for any field of activity. The introduction of the competence-based approach to the organization of the pedagogical process takes place by understanding the dependence of human progress on the level of individual development. This approach focuses on the result of education, when the student is able to act in difficult situations to find a solution.