Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Chinese in College Station, TX and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have a few principal choices for learning Chinese interactively in College Station, TX. 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 2nd spource can be local private language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in College Station, TX. If flexibility is key, you can compare local College Station, TX and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what do Chinese tutors charge?
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 fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language schools and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Chinese do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared pass a few pre-requisites. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so hard 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 Chinese. In reality, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand many expressions, 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 Chinese. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 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 demand at least 600 hours of dedication. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese teacher?
In language centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule structure classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule 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.