How much does a french tutor cost?
For English speakers, French is not the easiest language to pick up. French language tutors provide personalized instruction and guidance that books and audio language lessons can’t. The cost of hiring a tutor depends on the frequency and length of lessons, the language status of the tutor, the location of the session and the formality of the session. Typically, language tutors charge by the hour.
Frequency
Many tutors offer discounts to clients who book more than one lesson in a week. In general, $120 per week will most likely cover two or three one-hour sessions.
Fluency of the tutor
Native-born French speakers usually charge more than non-native but fluent French speakers. While having a native-born tutor provides some advantages in terms of knowledge of the culture and linguistic mores, a non-native but fluent tutor likely has a greater understanding of the challenges of learning a new language. Of course, if the native French speaker also speaks English, then that tutor will also have an understanding of that challenge.
Tutor’s education
Tutors who have had formal training in the language and teaching of French charge more than untrained tutors. Formally trained tutors are not necessarily better, however. Always read reviews and ask for an introductory phone call to assess rapport.
Formality of the lesson
Formal French lessons cost more because the tutor must spend time preparing the lesson and assembling materials. More informal, conversational lessons usually cost less.
Type of lesson
The nature of the lesson affects the cost. For example, prices for Emma’s French Classes of Grand Prairie, Texas, vary according to the student's goals—conversation only or working on listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Location
Hourly rates of some tutors vary depending on the student’s location. For example, Marlène Mousseux of The French Influence in North Hollywood, California, charges $80 an hour at her Studio City location and up to $120 an hour if she needs to drive over a certain distance to meet with students. French and Spanish Language Instruction of Santa Clara, California, charges $25 for a 30-minute lessons via videoconference and adds 56.5 cents per mile if a tutor is required to travel to the student (this amount is the IRS’ rate factor).
Demand
Tutors in high demand usually charge more. During high-demand times, such as the days or weeks leading up to final exams, tutors usually increase prices as well.
Cost-saving strategies
Ask if there are discounts available for multiple lessons. Some tutors, such as Monique A. French Tutor of Brea, California, charge a lower group rate for a session with multiple students.