Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Spanish in Cartagena and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have 4 main choices for learning Spanish interactively in Cartagena. 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 cheaper.) Your other resource can be local commercial language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private Spanish tutor in Cartagena. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Cartagena and online Spanish tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Spanish and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Spanish tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Spanish course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language schools and independent Spanish tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Spanish tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 15 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and student demand. Average student satisfaction for Spanish lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Spanish do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared pass a few pre-requisites. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Spanish tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Spanish so difficult 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 Spanish. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Spanish fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, have simple conversations, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Spanish. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Spanish tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Spanish?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Spanish will demand at least 600 hours of practice. The length of time can differ by a lot depending on your existing level of Spanish or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, try typing using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Spanish out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Spanish classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Spanish teacher?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of tested Spanish tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools offer 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.