Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn German in Northampton, MA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have several key possibilities for learning German interactively in Northampton, MA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your second possibility can be local for-profit language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can opt for a private German tutor in Northampton, MA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Northampton, MA and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn German and what do German tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 course hours each semester. Language schools and independent German tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable German tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and specialization. Customer review average for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of German do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal German tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn German. In reality, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, speak on some level, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to master German?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in German will necessitate at least 600 hours of active use. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your current level of German or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in German out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own German tutor?
In learning centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved German tutors with extensive profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges typically offer classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.