Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Dutch in Manhattan, NY and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have four main opportunities for learning Dutch interactively in Manhattan, NY. 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 other spource can be local for-profit language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can find a private Dutch tutor in Manhattan, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Manhattan, NY and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Dutch and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Dutch tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred lesson hours each semester. Language academies and independent Dutch tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Dutch tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and student demand. Real student rating average for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Dutch do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
One-size-fits-all 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most sentences, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to master Dutch?
Some people just 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 practice. The required duration of time can differ quite a bit depending on your current level of Dutch or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Dutch tutor?
In language centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of tested Dutch tutors with full profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day 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.