Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn French in Berkeley, CA and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have a few primary opportunities for learning French interactively in Berkeley, CA. 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 cheaper.) Your second resource can be local commercial language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private French tutor in Berkeley, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Berkeley, CA and online French tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn French and what do French tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate French course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and independent French tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced French tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and popularity. Customer review average for French lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of French do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research those in advance. With personal French tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is French so difficult and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn French. In reality, you can gain basic French fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to learn French?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in French will take at least 600 hours of active use. The length of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of French or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in French out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the French coach?
In language learning academies, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of verified French tutors with detailed profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.