Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to learn Chinese in Manhattan, NY and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have 4 principal choices for learning Chinese interactively in Manhattan, NY. 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 cheaper.) Your other resource can be local specialized 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 Manhattan, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Manhattan, NY and online Chinese tutors.
Is it affordable to learn Chinese and how much should Chinese tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of about 50 course hours each semester. Language centers and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 15 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, availability and student demand. Average student satisfaction 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. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research each program 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 add-ons they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
Why is Chinese so challenging and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. In reality, 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 everyday words, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After attaining 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 achieve a good level of 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 active use. The amount of time can differ quite a bit depending on your existing level of Chinese or familiarity with 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 videos, try typing 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.
What are my options when choosing the Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with full profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule run classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.