Preply reviews: About preply
Preply is an online language learning platform that connects learners with tutors from around the world. Founded in 2012 by Ukrainian entrepreneurs Kirill Bigai, Dmytro Voloshyn, and Serge Lukyanov, Preply has grown significantly, now offering services in over 50 languages with more than 35,000 tutors available to students in 180 countries.
Preply reviews About preply
Overview of Services
Preply’s platform allows learners to find and schedule personalized lessons with tutors who can cater to their specific learning goals. The service includes:
- 1-on-1 Online Lessons: Interactive sessions tailored to individual needs.
- Personalized Learning Plans: Tutors work with students to create customized lesson plans based on their objectives, whether for career advancement, travel, or personal interest.
- Flexible Scheduling: Lessons can be arranged according to the learner’s availability and time zone.
- Diverse Tutor Selection: With tutors from over 160 countries, learners can choose based on language, dialect, and teaching style.
Technological Integration
Preply utilizes a machine-learning algorithm to enhance the matching process between learners and tutors, considering factors such as pricing, availability, and learning objectives. This AI-driven approach aims to improve the efficiency of the learning experience.
Company Growth and Funding
Since its inception, Preply has raised approximately $170 million across multiple funding rounds, with significant investments in recent years aimed at expanding its services and technological capabilities. In 2023, the company raised an additional $70 million to further develop its AI-powered tutoring services and enhance its market presence, particularly in the U.S.
Recognition and Challenges
Preply has received accolades such as “The Revenue Hack of 2020” at the Ukrainian Startup Awards. However, it has faced criticism regarding its commission structure, which some tutors feel is too high, and concerns about the quality of tutoring due to the platform’s open recruitment policy. Despite these challenges, many users appreciate the flexibility and variety of tutors available, making Preply a popular choice for language learners.
In summary, Preply is a comprehensive platform for language learning, leveraging technology to connect learners with a wide array of tutors, while continuously evolving to meet the needs of its users.
What are the benefits of using Preply over other language learning platforms
What are the benefits of using Preply over other language learning platforms
Preply offers several advantages over other language learning platforms, making it a compelling choice for learners seeking personalized and effective language instruction. Here are some key benefits:
1. Personalized Learning Experience
- Custom Lesson Plans: Preply allows tutors to create tailored lesson plans based on individual learner goals, preferences, and proficiency levels. This contrasts with platforms like Duolingo, which provide pre-set lessons that may not cater to specific needs.
- 1-on-1 Tutoring: The platform focuses on personalized, one-on-one lessons, enabling learners to engage in conversations from the very beginning. This approach is designed to enhance speaking skills more effectively than automated or group lessons.
2. Diverse Tutor Selection
- Large Tutor Base: Preply boasts a vast network of over 140,000 tutors across various languages and subjects, giving learners the flexibility to choose based on expertise, teaching style, and availability. This extensive selection is more comprehensive than many competitors, such as italki, which has fewer tutors for certain languages.
- Native Speakers: Learners can specifically choose tutors who are native speakers, which can significantly enhance the learning experience by providing authentic language exposure and cultural insights.
3. Flexible Scheduling and Pricing
- Flexible Learning Schedule: Preply offers the ability to schedule lessons at times that suit the learner’s availability, making it easier for those with busy lifestyles to fit language learning into their routines.
- Affordable Options: With lesson prices starting as low as $1 per hour, Preply provides a range of pricing options, making it accessible for learners on different budgets.
4. User-Friendly Features
- Advanced Search Filters: Preply’s platform includes sophisticated filters that allow learners to find tutors based on various criteria, including language, price, availability, and specialization. This feature simplifies the process of finding the right tutor compared to other platforms.
- Trial Lessons: The option to book trial lessons allows learners to assess a tutor’s teaching style and compatibility before committing to a full course of study. This feature is particularly beneficial for ensuring a good fit between the tutor and learner.
5. Additional Learning Resources
- Self-Study Tools: Preply provides supplementary learning materials, including a vocabulary tool and self-study resources tailored to learners’ levels and interests. These tools support language retention and practice outside of scheduled lessons.
- Integration of Technology: The platform utilizes AI-driven features to enhance the learning experience, such as personalized vocabulary suggestions and a Chrome extension for vocabulary building while browsing the web.
In summary, Preply stands out due to its personalized approach to language learning, extensive tutor selection, flexibility, user-friendly features, and additional resources, making it a strong alternative to other language learning platforms.
Which languages are most commonly taught on Preply?
Which languages are most commonly taught on Preply
Preply is a popular online platform for language learning that connects students with tutors across a wide range of languages. The platform offers courses in over 150 languages, but certain languages are particularly popular among learners.
Most Commonly Taught Languages on Preply
The most commonly taught languages on Preply include:
- English: By far the most popular language, accounting for about 28% of learners on the platform. Many students learn English for career advancement and educational purposes.
- Spanish: The second most popular language, with over 10% of learners studying it. Spanish is especially sought after in the United States, where a significant portion of the population speaks it.
- French: This language attracts around 7% of learners, with many studying it for career opportunities, especially in countries with historical ties to France.
- German: Another major language, German is popular due to its economic significance and the number of immigrants in German-speaking countries.
- Italian: Italian ranks high as well, with learners often motivated by cultural interests, including cuisine and art.
- Arabic: This language is crucial for many learners, especially those interested in the Middle East and North Africa.
- Chinese (Mandarin): With a growing global influence, Mandarin is increasingly popular among learners interested in business and cultural exchanges.
Other languages that are commonly taught on Preply include Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, and Hindi, among others. The diversity of languages offered reflects the platform’s global reach and the varied interests of its users.
In summary, while Preply offers a vast array of languages, English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian are among the most commonly taught, driven by factors such as career opportunities, cultural interests, and global communication needs.
How do I find the best tutor for my language learning needs on Preply?
How do I find the best tutor for my language learning needs on Preply
Finding the best tutor for your language learning needs on Preply involves a systematic approach to ensure you select someone who aligns with your goals, learning style, and budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
1. Assess Your Learning Needs
Before searching for a tutor, it’s crucial to identify your specific language learning objectives. Consider the following:
- Goals: Are you learning for travel, work, exams, or personal enrichment?
- Proficiency Level: Determine your current level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) to find a tutor who can tailor lessons accordingly.
- Learning Style: Reflect on how you prefer to learn. Do you thrive in structured environments, or do you prefer conversational practice?
- Time Commitment: Assess how many hours per week you can dedicate to lessons and self-study.
- Budget: Decide on a price range that fits your financial situation for tutoring sessions.
2. Use Preply’s Search Features
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, head to the Preply platform:
- Find Tutors Section: Click on the “Find Tutors” button to access the tutor search page.
- Search Filters: Utilize the available filters to narrow down your options based on:
- Subject: Select the language you want to learn.
- Specialties: Focus on specific areas, such as business language or conversation skills.
- Price Range: Set a budget to find tutors within your financial limits.
- Native Speaker Preference: If desired, filter for tutors who are native speakers of the language you are learning.
- Schedule Compatibility: Ensure the tutor’s availability aligns with your schedule.
3. Evaluate Potential Tutors
After filtering your search, take time to review the profiles of potential tutors:
- Qualifications and Experience: Look for tutors with relevant teaching certifications and experience, particularly in online settings.
- Teaching Style: Read descriptions of their teaching methodologies to find one that matches your preferred learning style.
- Communication Skills: Assess their ability to explain concepts clearly and respond to student inquiries effectively.
- Reviews and Ratings: Check feedback from previous students to gauge the tutor’s effectiveness and teaching style. Look for consistent positive feedback and any red flags in reviews.
4. Maximize Trial Lessons
Most tutors on Preply offer trial lessons, which are an excellent opportunity to evaluate their teaching style:
- Trial Session: Book a trial lesson to experience the tutor’s approach firsthand. This session can help you determine if their teaching style resonates with you.
- Feedback and Interaction: Use this time to ask questions about their methods, lesson plans, and how they would tailor sessions to meet your needs.
- Decision Making: After the trial, reflect on whether you felt comfortable and engaged during the lesson, and if you believe the tutor can help you achieve your goals.
5. Continuous Evaluation
Once you start regular lessons, continue to assess your progress and satisfaction:
- Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to communicate with your tutor about what’s working and what isn’t. A good tutor will be open to adjusting their methods to better suit your needs.
- Switching Tutors: If you find that a tutor isn’t meeting your expectations, Preply allows you to easily switch tutors to find a better fit without any hassle.
By following these steps, you can effectively find a tutor on Preply who will support your language learning journey and help you achieve your goals.
What is the pricing structure for lessons on Preply?
What is the pricing structure for lessons on Preply
Preply is an online tutoring platform that connects students with tutors for personalized lessons, primarily in language learning. The pricing structure on Preply is flexible and varies significantly based on several factors, primarily determined by the tutors themselves.
Pricing Structure
- Hourly Rates: Each tutor sets their own hourly rate, leading to a wide range of prices. Most tutors charge between $10 and $45 per hour, with an average rate around $15 to $25 per hour for popular languages.
- Trial Lessons: Students can often take discounted trial lessons to assess a tutor’s teaching style. However, these trial lessons do not pay the tutor, as Preply retains 100% of the fee for the first lesson with a new student.
- Subscription Model: After the trial lesson, students are encouraged to purchase lesson packages. The subscription is typically structured for 28-day periods, during which students commit to a certain number of hours (1 to 5 hours per week). For example, if a tutor charges $20 per hour and a student commits to one lesson per week, the total cost for 28 days would be $80 (4 hours x $20).
- Unused Hours: It’s important for students to manage their hours carefully, as any unused hours may be written off at the end of the billing cycle. For instance, if a student subscribes to a 4-hour per week plan but only uses 10 out of 16 hours, they would lose 2 of those hours because they did not meet the minimum usage requirement.
- Discounts for More Hours: The more hours a student commits to, the greater the potential discount on the hourly rate. This incentivizes students to purchase larger packages.
Key Considerations
- Budget Filtering: Students can filter tutors based on their budget, which helps in finding a tutor that fits their financial constraints.
- Cancellation Policy: Students must remember to cancel their subscription if they no longer wish to continue lessons, as the platform automatically charges for the next cycle.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Preply offers a satisfaction guarantee, allowing students to request a replacement tutor or a full refund if they are unhappy with their lesson.
In summary, Preply’s pricing structure is characterized by tutor-set rates, a subscription model for lessons, and a flexible approach to lesson packages, making it adaptable to various student needs and budgets.
Can I try a lesson for free before committing to a tutor on Preply?
Can I try a lesson for free before committing to a tutor on Preply
Yes, you can try a lesson on Preply before fully committing to a tutor, but it’s important to note that the trial lesson is not free. Instead, you will pay for the trial lesson at the standard rate set by the tutor. This payment allows you to assess whether the tutor is a good fit for your learning needs.
Key Points About Trial Lessons on Preply
Trial Lesson Details:
- Paid Trial: The trial lesson is charged at the tutor’s regular rate, meaning you will need to pay for it, unlike some platforms that offer completely free trials. This lesson typically lasts around 50 minutes and includes time for introductions, discussing learning goals, and some teaching.
- Risk-Free Option: If you find that the tutor does not meet your expectations or if the lesson does not take place, you can request a free lesson with another tutor. Preply allows up to two free replacements after your initial trial lesson, giving you the opportunity to find a better match without additional cost.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Preply has a satisfaction guarantee policy. If your trial lesson does not meet your expectations, you can request a free replacement tutor or a refund of your payment.
In summary, while you cannot get a trial lesson for free, you do have the option to evaluate your experience and switch tutors if necessary, ensuring that you find the right fit for your learning journey.
What Motivates People to Learn Spanish on Preply
People are motivated to learn Spanish on Preply for several key reasons, reflecting a blend of personal, professional, and educational aspirations.
What Motivates People to Learn Spanish on Preply
Top Motivations for Learning Spanish on Preply
1. Career Advancement
A significant motivation for many learners is career-related. Approximately 20.8% of Preply users cite career as their primary reason for studying Spanish. This is particularly relevant in fields such as healthcare, education, and customer service, where being bilingual can enhance job prospects and improve communication with Spanish-speaking clients or patients. As the Hispanic population grows in various regions, including the United States, professionals are increasingly recognizing the value of Spanish proficiency in their careers.
2. Educational Goals
Education is another strong motivator, with 21.6% of learners indicating that they are pursuing Spanish for academic purposes. This may include preparing for language proficiency exams, enhancing their educational qualifications, or simply fulfilling language requirements for their studies. Learning Spanish can also enrich one’s understanding of literature, history, and culture, making it an appealing choice for students.
3. Personal Interests and Hobbies
Many learners are driven by personal interests, accounting for 22.3% of motivations. This includes a desire to travel to Spanish-speaking countries, connect with Spanish-speaking friends or family, or engage with Spanish media such as films, music, and literature. For these learners, Spanish becomes a means to explore new cultures and experiences, making the learning process more enjoyable and fulfilling.
Benefits of Learning on Preply
Preply offers a tailored learning experience that aligns with these motivations:
- Personalized Learning Plans: Tutors create customized lessons based on individual goals, whether they are career-focused, educational, or personal.
- Flexible Scheduling: Learners can choose lesson times that fit their busy lives, making it easier to integrate language learning into their routines.
- Native Speakers: Many tutors are native Spanish speakers, providing authentic language exposure and cultural insights that enhance the learning experience.
- Interactive Tools: Preply’s platform includes features like trial lessons and the ability to switch tutors if necessary, ensuring that learners find the right fit for their needs.
In summary, the motivations for learning Spanish on Preply are diverse and reflect a combination of career aspirations, educational pursuits, and personal interests. The platform’s flexibility and personalized approach cater to these motivations, making it an attractive option for learners at all levels.
Why English is the most popular language on Preply
Why English is the most popular language on Preply
Dominance in User Base
English accounts for 28% of all Preply users, making it the most studied language on the platform. This is significantly higher than other languages, with Spanish trailing at over 10% of learners. The prevalence of English learners reflects its status as a global lingua franca, essential for communication across diverse cultures.
1. English is the most widely spoken language in the world
With over 2 billion English speakers globally, it is the largest language by number of speakers and the third largest by number of native speakers. English is an official language in 67 countries.
2. English is in high demand for careers and education
49.4% of English learners on Preply cite career as their primary motivation, while 29.7% learn English for education. Fluency in English is crucial for many jobs and academic pursuits worldwide.
3. English is the dominant language in business and academia
English is the most common language used in international business, science, technology, diplomacy, and academia. Learning English opens up opportunities in these fields.
4. English is the language of entertainment and media
Much of the world’s most popular entertainment, including movies, TV shows, music, and video games, is produced in English. Knowing English allows access to this content.
5. English is the language of the internet
English is the most used language online, with over half of all websites being in English. Proficiency in English is necessary to navigate and utilize the internet.
6. English is relatively easy for native speakers of many languages to learn
English has a relatively simple grammar structure compared to many other languages. This makes it more accessible for native speakers of languages like Spanish, French, and German to pick up.In summary, English is the most popular language on Preply due to its global prevalence, importance for careers and education, dominance in business and academia, ubiquity in entertainment and media, centrality to the internet, and relative ease of learning. Its widespread utility makes it a valuable language for people worldwide to acquire.
What are the common issues users encounter with Preply’s pricing system?
Users of Preply’s pricing system frequently report several common issues, particularly related to the commission structure, pricing adjustments, and overall transparency. Here are the key concerns:
What are the common issues users encounter with Preply’s pricing system
High Commission Rates
- Initial Commission: New tutors on Preply are subject to a 100% commission for their first lesson with a new student, which means they earn nothing from that session. Following the first lesson, Preply takes a 33% commission for subsequent lessons, which many tutors find excessive, especially when trying to establish a client base.
- Long-Term Commission Structure: Although the commission can reduce to 18% after a certain number of lessons, many tutors feel that the initial high commission is punitive and discourages them from continuing on the platform.
Pricing Adjustments
- Difficulties in Changing Rates: Users have reported challenges when trying to raise their lesson prices. After initially setting a low price to attract students, tutors find it complicated to adjust their rates later. The system often requires them to cancel scheduled lessons before they can change their prices, which can lead to confusion and frustration.
- Confusing Pricing Structure: The pricing system is perceived as complex and not well-explained. Users have difficulty understanding how the subscription model works, including how many hours they are committing to and the implications of unused hours, which can lead to unexpected charges.
Lack of Transparency
- Subscription Confusion: Preply automatically renews subscriptions every 28 days, which can lead to users being charged for lessons they may not use. This lack of clarity about the billing cycle and how unused hours are handled has frustrated many users.
- Customer Service Issues: Many users express dissatisfaction with Preply’s customer support, citing slow response times and a lack of helpfulness when addressing billing or pricing inquiries.
Overall User Experience
- Platform Usability: Some users have noted that the platform can be confusing to navigate, particularly when trying to manage lessons and pricing. Issues such as lessons not registering correctly or problems with calendar synchronization add to the frustration.
- Trial Lessons: Unlike many competitors, Preply does not offer a free trial, which means users must pay upfront for lessons, making it harder for them to evaluate the service before committing financially.
These issues collectively contribute to a challenging experience for both tutors and students on Preply, leading to calls for greater transparency and improved support from the platform.
Overall, while Preply provides a platform for language learning and tutoring, the pricing system presents significant challenges for both tutors and students. High commission rates, difficulties in adjusting prices, confusing subscription terms, and inadequate customer support contribute to a negative experience for many users.
What should I look for in a tutor’s profile on Preply?
When evaluating a tutor’s profile on Preply, consider the following key factors to ensure you find the right match for your learning needs:
What should I look for in a tutor’s profile on Preply
1. Tutor Verification
Look for a verification sign (a blue shield with a tick) next to the tutor’s name. This indicates that Preply has confirmed the tutor’s identity and qualifications, ensuring a level of trustworthiness in their profile.
2. Reviews and Ratings
Check the reviews left by previous students. Since only those who have paid for lessons can leave feedback, these reviews provide insights into the tutor’s teaching effectiveness, punctuality, and communication skills. Pay attention to both positive and negative comments to get a balanced view.
3. Teaching Experience and Qualifications
Examine the tutor’s experience and qualifications listed on their profile. This includes their educational background, certifications, and any specialties they may have, which can be crucial depending on your learning goals.
4. Teaching Style
Consider the tutor’s teaching style, which can often be gleaned from their profile description and introduction video. Look for details on how they structure lessons, correct errors, and support students during exercises. This will help you determine if their approach aligns with your learning preferences.
5. Communication Skills
Evaluate the tutor’s communication skills by observing their response time to messages and the clarity of their written communication. A quick and clear response can indicate a tutor who is engaged and communicative, which is essential for effective learning.
6. Profile Photo and Video
A professional profile photo and an engaging introduction video can provide a sense of the tutor’s personality. A friendly and approachable appearance can make you feel more comfortable, while the video allows you to assess their communication style and enthusiasm for teaching.
7. Availability and Pricing
Check the tutor’s availability and hourly rates. Use Preply’s filters to narrow down your options based on what fits your schedule and budget. This ensures you find a tutor who can accommodate your learning timetable.
8. Specialties and Languages Spoken
If you have specific learning goals (e.g., business English, exam preparation), look for tutors who specialize in those areas. Additionally, finding a tutor who speaks your native language can be beneficial for beginners.
By carefully considering these aspects, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a tutor on Preply, enhancing your overall learning experience.
How do I make sure my tutor’s schedule works for me?
How do I make sure my tutor’s schedule works for me
To ensure that your tutor’s schedule works effectively for you, consider the following strategies:
Communicate Clearly
- Discuss Availability: Have an open conversation with your tutor about their available times. Ensure that you both agree on a schedule that accommodates your needs as well as theirs.
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear expectations regarding session frequency, duration, and any potential breaks. This helps both you and your tutor manage time effectively and avoid burnout.
Use Scheduling Tools
- Shared Calendars: Utilize tools like Google Calendar or scheduling software that allows both you and your tutor to see each other’s availability. This can help prevent overlaps and ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding scheduled sessions.
- Automated Reminders: If your tutor uses scheduling software, ensure that it includes automated reminders for sessions. This can help both of you remember upcoming lessons and reduce no-shows.
Flexibility and Adaptability
- Be Open to Adjustments: Life can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust your schedule as needed. Discuss how you can handle rescheduling or cancellations in advance to minimize stress.
- Trial Lessons: If you are unsure about a tutor’s style or schedule compatibility, consider booking a trial lesson first. This allows you to gauge whether their availability aligns with your needs before committing to a longer-term schedule.
Regular Check-Ins
- Feedback Loop: Regularly check in with your tutor about the scheduling arrangement. If something isn’t working, discuss it openly to find a solution that suits both of you.
- Evaluate Progress: Periodically assess whether the current schedule is meeting your learning goals. If necessary, adjust the frequency or timing of sessions based on your progress and feedback from your tutor.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a tutoring schedule that works effectively for both you and your tutor, facilitating a productive learning experience.
Can I see the tutor’s teaching method on preply before booking a lesson?
Can I see the tutor’s teaching method on preply before booking a lesson
You cannot see a tutor’s specific teaching method on Preply before booking a lesson. However, you can get a general idea of what to expect during a trial lesson, which is designed to help you determine if the tutor is a good match for you.
Trial Lesson Overview
- Introduction: You’ll typically start by introducing yourselves and discussing your learning goals.
- Skill Assessment: The tutor may check your language skills to ensure the lesson is tailored to your level.
- Teaching Style: While the trial lesson includes some teaching, it primarily focuses on understanding your needs and creating a learning plan. Tutors are encouraged to engage in activities, but the duration dedicated to actual teaching can vary. Some tutors may spend around 10 minutes on introductions and then proceed with teaching, while others might teach more extensively during the trial.
- Feedback and Planning: At the end of the lesson, there is usually a discussion about how to proceed with future lessons based on your performance and preferences.
Booking a Trial Lesson
To book a trial lesson, you simply select a tutor, choose a date and time, and make a secure payment. If you find that the lesson does not meet your expectations, Preply offers a satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to request a refund or a different tutor. While you can’t preview a tutor’s specific methods, reading reviews or testimonials from other students can provide insights into their teaching style.
Conclusion: Preply reviews are the best choice for mastering online education
Preply stands out as a leading platform for mastering online education, particularly in language learning, due to several key features and advantages.
Conclusion Preply reviews are the best choice for mastering online education
Extensive Tutor Network
Preply boasts a vast network of over 35,000 tutors, specializing in more than 1,200 subjects, primarily focusing on languages. This diversity allows learners to find a tutor that perfectly matches their specific needs and learning styles. The platform also offers a free trial lesson, enabling students to assess compatibility before committing to a tutor.
Personalized Learning Experience
One of Preply’s significant advantages is its emphasis on personalized education. Unlike traditional language schools that follow a rigid curriculum, Preply allows students to tailor their lessons according to their interests and goals. The platform facilitates flexible scheduling, enabling learners to book classes at their convenience, which is especially beneficial for those with busy lifestyles.
Innovative Learning Tools
Preply incorporates advanced technology to enhance the learning experience. Features such as a speaking tracker help monitor student engagement during lessons, ensuring that learners practice speaking as much as possible. Additionally, the Vocab by Preply app aids in vocabulary acquisition by allowing students to save and review new words encountered in their studies.
Comprehensive Support and Resources
The platform provides various resources to support learners outside of lessons, including a materials library and tools for self-study. Preply also offers a free placement test for students learning major languages, ensuring that they start at the appropriate level and receive customized instruction from the outset.
Global Accessibility
Preply’s global tutor base means that students can find tutors available in different time zones, making it easier to schedule lessons at any time of day. This accessibility is a significant advantage for learners who may have unconventional schedules.
In summary, Preply’s extensive tutor network, personalized learning approach, innovative tools, comprehensive support, and global accessibility make it an excellent choice for mastering online education. Whether you’re looking to learn a new language or improve existing skills, Preply offers a tailored and flexible learning environment that caters to individual needs.
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