Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Dutch in Laval and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have 4 key possibilities for learning Dutch interactively in Laval. 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 second option can be local specialized 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. Finally, you can choose a private Dutch tutor in Laval. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Laval and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Dutch and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Dutch tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 45-48 class hours each semester. Language schools and independent Dutch tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Dutch tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Dutch language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch not easy and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. In reality, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand common words, speak on some level, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Dutch?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will demand at least 600 hours of active use. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your already acquired level of Dutch or knowledge of other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Dutch teacher?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, certainly! The largest selection of approved Dutch tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges typically offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule offer 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.