Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Urdu in Washington, DC and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have a few primary choices for learning Urdu interactively in Washington, DC. 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 are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can look for a private Urdu tutor in Washington, DC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Washington, DC and online Urdu tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Urdu and how much should Urdu tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Urdu course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language schools and independent Urdu tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Urdu tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 7 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, availability and student demand. Real student rating average for Urdu lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Urdu do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and exams, so research the details in advance. With personal Urdu tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Urdu so hard 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 Urdu. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Urdu fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand common words, speak on some level, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Urdu. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Urdu tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Urdu?
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 Urdu will demand at least 600 hours of active use. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your current level of Urdu or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, try typing using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Urdu out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Urdu classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Urdu instructor?
In colleges and universities, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of verified Urdu tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically structure 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, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.