Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Thai in Philadelphia, PA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have several primary possibilities for learning Thai interactively in Philadelphia, PA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your 2nd resource can be local private language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Thai tutor in Philadelphia, PA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Philadelphia, PA and online Thai tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Thai and how much should Thai tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and independent Thai tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Thai tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and specialization. Customer review average for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Thai do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Thai 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 maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so hard and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Thai fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday expressions, express yourself, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Thai?
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 Thai will necessitate at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Thai 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 videos, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Thai instructor?
In language learning academies, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, certainly! The largest selection of tested Thai tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges structure classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule 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.