Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Russian in Santa Barbara, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 key choices for learning Russian interactively in Santa Barbara, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your second resource can be local for-profit 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 choose a private Russian tutor in Santa Barbara, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Barbara, CA and online Russian tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Russian and how much should Russian tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Russian course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and private Russian tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Russian tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 19 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, ratings and student demand. Average student satisfaction for Russian lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Russian do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Russian tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Russian so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Russian. Realistically, you can gain basic Russian fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, be understood when you talk, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Russian. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Russian tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Russian?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Russian will demand at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Russian or familiarity with 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 TV, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Russian out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Russian classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Russian instructor?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened Russian tutors with extensive profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week 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.