Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Korean in San Francisco, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 key opportunities for learning Korean interactively in San Francisco, CA. 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 cheaper.) Your 2nd spource can be local commercial 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 opt for a private Korean tutor in San Francisco, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local San Francisco, CA and online Korean tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Korean and how much should Korean tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Korean course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of fifty or so course hours each semester. Language schools and individual Korean tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Korean tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 21 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and popularity. Customer review average for Korean lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Korean 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. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Korean tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Korean so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Korean. In reality, you can gain basic Korean fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand common phrases, express yourself, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Korean. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Korean tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Korean?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Korean will necessitate at least 600 hours of study. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your existing level of Korean or knowledge of other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch television, write by hand and online using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Korean out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Korean classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Korean instructor?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, always! The largest selection of tested Korean tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually 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.