For those in the know, it’s not impossible. Typically, for a complete beginner, going from HSK1 to HSK6 takes about 220 hours. By the time foreigners reach HSK6, communication is generally no longer an issue, and with a bit more practice, fluency is achievable. So, reaching this level in nine months is entirely plausible.
When it comes to learning Chinese, the best approach for foreigners is to find a suitable Chinese language school. Nowadays, online learning is convenient, and if you choose the right school, it’s also affordable.
Based on our years of experience teaching Chinese to heritage children, here are four key factors to consider when choosing a Chinese language school:
Can You Choose Your Own Chinese Teacher?
Most Chinese schools offer only one free trial class, making it a “one-shot deal.” However, every child is different, and a single trial may not ensure they find a teacher who’s the right fit. The teacher plays a critical role in a child’s Chinese learning and progress. When a child likes their teacher, they’re more motivated and learn better. If they don’t, progress can suffer. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a school that allows parents to select a teacher their child likes. Some schools now offer multiple trial classes, letting kids try different teachers, which greatly increases the chances of finding the right match.
Is It Cost-Effective?
The curriculum for teaching Chinese to heritage children is well-established, typically using materials like the Ministry-approved textbooks (People’s Education Press), New Shuang Shuang, YCT, or Easy Steps to Chinese. While some schools claim to use “self-developed” materials, most eventually align with these standard series. Since the content is largely the same, cost-effectiveness becomes a key consideration. Some schools, especially for one-on-one classes, charge exorbitant rates of $150–200 per hour, which is clearly overpriced. Currently, a reasonable price for one-on-one Chinese lessons for kids is around 100–110 RMB (roughly $14–16 USD) per hour. Parents should compare multiple schools to find the best value.
How Long Has the School Been Established, and What Are the Teachers’ Qualifications?
Generally, schools with longer histories tend to have more experienced teachers and more systematic, mature teaching operations. Additionally, native Chinese teachers from mainland China typically have more standard pronunciation and a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. Therefore, parents should prioritize schools with a long track record and native Chinese teachers. With online learning now widely accessible, geographic barriers are no longer an issue. Choosing native teachers from Chinese schools ensures kids learn authentic Chinese language and culture.
Is There a “Try Before You Buy” Option?
Many schools push parents to commit to dozens or even hundreds of class hours upfront, which is irresponsible. Even if a trial class goes well, it doesn’t guarantee long-term success. Trial classes are often carefully crafted by schools to impress, but sustained results depend on ongoing experience. Some schools now offer smaller trial packages, like 20 class hours, allowing parents to assess the fit before committing further. This approach minimizes trial-and-error costs and benefits both parents and kids.
