Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to learn Chinese in Jersey City, NJ and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have several main possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Jersey City, NJ. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your 2nd resource can be local private 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. Finally, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Jersey City, NJ. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Jersey City, NJ and online Chinese tutors.
Is it cheap to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese 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 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language academies and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Chinese tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 15 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.91 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
Why is Chinese so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
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 Chinese will require at least 600 hours of study. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Chinese or knowledge of 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 television, write using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese teacher?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically 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 choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.