Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master German in Shanghai and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have a few principal opportunities for learning German interactively in Shanghai. 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 a little more affordable.) Your 2nd option can be local specialized language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private German tutor in Shanghai. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Shanghai and online German tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it 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 ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for about 50 course hours each semester. Language centers and independent German tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey German tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 30 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, positive reviews and languages the tutor can teach in. Average student satisfaction for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for German language skill level 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. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and testing, so research each program in advance. With personal German tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many phrases, express yourself, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After attaining 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 get better at speaking 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 dedication. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your existing 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, try typing 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.
🤳 Can I pick my own German tutor?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified German tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually offer classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule make available 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.