Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Russian in Astoria, NY and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 principal possibilities for learning Russian interactively in Astoria, NY. 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 cheaper.) Your second spource can be local specialized language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can choose a private Russian tutor in Astoria, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Astoria, NY and online Russian tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Russian and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Russian tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Russian course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of about 50 class hours each semester. Language academies and private Russian tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Russian tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 19 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, ratings and popularity. Average reviews for Russian lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Russian do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research those in advance. With personal Russian tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Russian so hard and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Russian. In reality, you can gain basic Russian fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand common expressions, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Russian. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Russian tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Russian?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Russian will demand at least 600 hours of dedication. The actual range of time can differ a lot depending on your available level of Russian or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write by hand and online using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Russian out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Russian classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Russian teacher?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened Russian tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.