Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Russian in Pasadena, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have four main options for learning Russian interactively in Pasadena, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your other possibility can be local commercial language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private Russian tutor in Pasadena, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Pasadena, CA and online Russian tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it 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 1/2 of a hundred class hours each semester. Language schools and individual Russian tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Russian tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 19 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, experience and student demand. Real student rating average for Russian lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Russian 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. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and graded tasks, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Russian tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Russian not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Russian. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Russian fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand most words, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and enjoyable 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 students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Russian?
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 Russian will necessitate at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Russian or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional 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 tutor?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Russian tutors with full profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools 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.