Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Russian in Edinburgh and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have four principal opportunities for learning Russian interactively in Edinburgh. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your other resource can be local commercial 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 look for a private Russian tutor in Edinburgh. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Edinburgh and online Russian tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Russian and how much should Russian tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Russian course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language schools and private Russian tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Russian tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 19 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, ratings and student demand. Average student satisfaction for Russian lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Russian do I need 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. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and graded tasks, so research those in advance. With personal Russian tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Russian so hard and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and affordable 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 learners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Russian?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Russian will take at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ quite a bit depending on your already acquired level of Russian or proficiency in 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 television, try typing using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Russian out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Russian classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Russian coach?
In learning centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, of course! 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 offer 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.