Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on German in Vienna and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have a few primary options for learning German interactively in Vienna. 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 better priced.) Your 2nd possibility can be local commercial 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. Fourth, you can find a private German tutor in Vienna. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Vienna and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive 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 rate for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language academies and private German tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly German tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, experience and student demand. 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and tests, so research those 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 expertise they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is German not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
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 several hours a week you will be able to understand everyday words, express yourself, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and enjoyable 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 students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of German?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in German will take at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of German or proficiency in 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, write using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in German out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own German teacher?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of tested German tutors with full profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges structure classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule 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.