Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I improve my German in Montreal and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have four key opportunities for learning German interactively in Montreal. 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 less pricey.) Your other possibility can be local specialized language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private German tutor in Montreal. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Montreal and online German tutors.
Is it affordable to learn German and what are the ballpark lesson costs for German tutors?
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 45-48 class hours each semester. Language schools and private German tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey German tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 25 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for German lessons on Preply is 4.93 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 prove your profeciency level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and exams, so research the details 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 add-ons they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
Why is German not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn German. As proven by others before, 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 expressions, have simple conversations, shop and place orders in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready 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 get better at speaking 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 necessitate at least 600 hours of active use. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your existing level of German or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, try typing 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 coach?
In language learning academies, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of pre-screened German tutors with extensive profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically run classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.