Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Dutch in Washington, DC and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 key possibilities for learning Dutch interactively in Washington, DC. 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 a little more affordable.) Your second possibility can be local for-profit language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can opt for a private Dutch tutor in Washington, DC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Washington, DC and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Dutch and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Dutch tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language centers and private Dutch tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Dutch tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, experience and specialization. Customer review average for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Dutch 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 volume and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Dutch 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 classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so difficult and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. According to experts, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand everyday sentences, speak on some level, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Dutch?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will necessitate at least 600 hours of study. The length of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Dutch or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Dutch teacher?
In language centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Dutch tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically run classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically make available 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.