Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn German in Santa Monica, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have four key choices for learning German interactively in Santa Monica, 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 better priced.) Your second possibility can be local for-profit language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private German tutor in Santa Monica, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Monica, CA and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn German and what do German tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of 1/2 of a hundred class hours each semester. Language centers and independent German tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable German tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Customer review average for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of German do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared pass a few pre-requisites. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research those in advance. With personal German tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so difficult and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn German. Realistically, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand common expressions, express yourself, shop and place orders in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to master German?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in German will require at least 600 hours of study. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of German or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write by hand and online using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in German out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right German coach?
In learning centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, always! The largest selection of tested German tutors with extensive 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 schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.