Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my German in Santa Clara, CA and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 main choices for learning German interactively in Santa Clara, 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 a little more affordable.) Your other resource can be local specialized language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can opt for a private German tutor in Santa Clara, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Clara, CA and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn German and how much should German tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language academies and individual German tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced German tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and popularity. Average student satisfaction for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much German 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 load and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal German 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 those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so difficult 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 German. According to experts, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many phrases, speak on some level, shop and place orders in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of German?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in German will demand at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your current level of German 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 using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in German out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own German coach?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved German tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges structure classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.