Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on French in Santa Barbara, CA and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 primary options for learning French interactively in Santa Barbara, 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 are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can look for a private French tutor in Santa Barbara, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Barbara, CA and online French tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn French and how much should French tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate French course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of fifty or so class hours each semester. Language schools and individual French tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly French tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, availability and student demand. Real student rating average for French lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of French do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal French tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is French so hard 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 French. As proven by others before, you can gain basic French fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday words, be understood when you talk, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking French?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in French will take at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ a lot depending on your existing level of French or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in French out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the French teacher?
In language learning academies, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified French tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically offer 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.