Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Seattle, WA and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have 4 main opportunities for learning Chinese interactively in Seattle, WA. 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 a little more affordable.) Your 2nd possibility can be local private 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. 4th and last, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Seattle, WA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Seattle, WA and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what does a lesson with a tutor of Chinese cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese 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 45-48 class hours each semester. Language schools and private Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, experience and specialization. Average reviews for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Chinese language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and exams, so research the details in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. According to experts, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand common words, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Chinese?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will necessitate at least 600 hours of dedication. The required duration of time can differ by a lot depending on your current level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Chinese tutor?
In learning centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges run classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually make available 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.