I did my assessment in September and didn't really have any language issues in the city. Then again, I'm bit of a loner so that's probably why it didn't really matter.
The application breezes through until the medical when the CAAC start getting involved. And then it slows to almost a grinding halt.
You just sit and wait for the medical checks to be verified, certified and released. That takes almost 3 months. Then they have to verify your license. That's the stage I am at and it is long unending wait.
If you do apply, give it 7-9 months. It's like having a premie.