Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on German in Graz and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 main possibilities for learning German interactively in Graz. 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 better priced.) Your second option can be local private language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can opt for a private German tutor in Graz. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Graz and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn German and what does a lesson with a tutor of German cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language schools and private German tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable German tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and student demand. Real student rating 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal German tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is German not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn German. According to experts, 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 everyday words, speak on some level, shop and place orders in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and easy 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 achieve a good level of German?
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 German will demand at least 600 hours of dedication. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of German or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in German out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the German coach?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened German tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually make available 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.