Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Dutch in Cambridge and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have four principal options for learning Dutch interactively in Cambridge. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your other spource can be local commercial language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Dutch tutor in Cambridge. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Cambridge and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Dutch and what do Dutch tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 1/2 of a hundred instruction hours each semester. Language schools and independent Dutch tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Dutch tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.94 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Dutch do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so hard and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. In reality, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand everyday expressions, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Dutch?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will demand at least 600 hours of practice. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your available level of Dutch or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Dutch teacher?
In language learning academies, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified Dutch tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools offer shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.