Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master German in Magdeburg and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have 4 key choices for learning German interactively in Magdeburg. 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 possibility can be local for-profit language academies that cost less 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 choose a private German tutor in Magdeburg. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Magdeburg and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn German and what are the ballpark lesson costs for German tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language centers and independent German tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced German tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, availability and student demand. Average student satisfaction for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much German 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 level and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal German tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German 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 German. Realistically, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many words, have simple conversations, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn 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 active use. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of German or knowledge of other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in German out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own German tutor?
In learning centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of tested German tutors with detailed profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually structure classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically have 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.