FAQ

Read the questions below to learn about course regulations

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Albanian Online


Q: 
What is International Albanian Language Course?
A: It is an online course offering LIVE lessons with audio or video connection on your smart phone with the help of a native Albanian teacher. We do not offer lessons in groups (or with a CD) because this model has no quality. We offer one-on-one tutoring with a native teacher. This is what guarantees quality and progress. It is specially built for English speakers students to learn Albanian.

Q: Where is IALC Group located?
A: We are located in Brooklyn, NYC ~ USA. Thanks to today’s technology, we can come to your home via the Internet, enabling you to learn Albanian from the world’s capital, New York City.

Q: What equipment is needed to start?

A: Just a smart phone with internet connection or you can use a laptop, tablet or computer.

 

Q: What is the recommended number of lessons per week?
A: To get a good progress, we recommend at least 2-3 lessons a week. However, we offer you flexibility by leaving it to you to choose based on the conditions and opportunities you have. Most students take 10 hours a month, but there are some who only get 8 hours a month or less. You can change the frequency of your lessons at any time during this course.

Q: What will I learn from this course?
A: The course is divided into lessons. During these lessons, you will learn the grammar of the Albanian language and practice all language skills (reading, writing, understanding and speaking) with the guidance of your Albanian native teacher, live from your computer or cell phone via audio or video.

Q: Is it possible to change the day, the hour, or the duration of my lesson?

A: Yes, you can change the schedule of your lesson at any time. Let your teacher know what you want to change. Our recommendation is to notify your teacher at least an hour before the lesson starts.


Q: How long does it take for each lesson to be finished?

A:  Students are guided through each lesson until they have completely understood each lesson and have learned all the content of the lesson. Each lesson last 60 minutes.


Q: Can this course help me in anyway?

A: Absolutely! The lessons start with grammar basics, which are the core of each language. Through a high-quality foreign language learning program, students at I.A.L.C. progress towards proficiency in Albanian language.


Q: What payment options are available for this course?

A: We accept all major credit/debit cards like: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover. You can pay via  paypal.com/IALCgroup, or Square.com also Zelle, WesternUnion or MoneyGram are the options if you do not have a credit/debit card.


Q: What does the first free lesson contain?

A: The first trial lesson begins with a presentation of the course and testing of the student’s skills (such as: reading, speaking). This will help determine the student’s language level. We have different textbooks for each level of students. We promise that we will teach you how to read in Albanian from your first lesson if you are a beginner.


 

Q: What kind of discounts do you offer?

A: As a result of a long-term sponsorship we have been able to secure, we created Plan 1, which is a SUPER OFFER at just $8 per hour. By providing this offer, we race to offer the lowest price on the market with the highest quality, based on the language educational standards of our American institution.


Q: Can I take off some days for a vocation and come back to learn Albanian?

A: Yes, you can. If you intend to go on vacation, simply email us and notify your teacher before you leave, and once IALC confirms the permission, the money you paid will stay in your account for 1 month, until you return, and then you can resume. In this way, you can completely manage your lessons and budget.


Q: Is there a cancellation policy?

A: Lessons can be stopped by giving us a written notice (email) and notifying your teacher. Students may take up to one month of leave during the first five months of the course. Students who leave the course without notifying will lose the money they paid, but can return it by making a new payment for the month they missed. According to our User Policy the payment is non-refundable. In the event that you want to return to your lessons after 1 month without notifying and you like to continue, then you will need to make a new payment for 16 new lessons ($80), and in this way you will resume the unused lessons from your first payment.


Q: How much notice should I give if I would like to attend my trial lesson?

A: If you inform at least one hour in advance, we will assign you a native tutor and prepare your first class for you.


Q: How soon can I become fluent in Albanian?

A: It depends on the speed, skills, and intelligence of the student. Other factors include:

  • Your current level of language.
  • How comfortable you are with a foreign language.
  • Your motivation and interest.
  • What a great learner you are.
  • Your time spent practicing, doing homework, and self-assessing.

Q:  Is there a certificate that I will receive after completing the course?

A: Our students receive a certificate if they complete our Albanian language course prepared by their tutor based on students’ proficiency and performance.


Albanian in Albania

Q: Why should I study abroad?

A: An overseas experience is a life-changing learning experience, where learning extends well beyond the classroom. The experience can open your eyes to new ways of living, thinking, and viewing the planet. The opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of another culture, learn Albanian like a native speaker, and expand your intellectual interests, skills, and ideologies is just one of many benefits. Additionally, you can expect to make friends and make memories that will last a lifetime.


Q: Do I need facilitate insurance whereas abroad?

A: Definitely, as it isn’t included in the program fees. Consult with your insurance company to ensure that you’re covered while abroad. In the event that coverage is not sufficient, we could suggest various insurance companies that offer international insurance. Examples: aetnastudenthealth.com ; hthtravelinsurance.com


Q: How long do the Albanian courses run for?

A: Our Albanian Language courses run all year round. Our courses last from a week up to one month, and a student can request additional courses if needed.


Q: Do I actually have to pay for my Albanian course in advance?

A: Upon payment of the full amount, you will receive a confirmation via email. You can also choose BillMeLater via paypal.com pay in 6 months with 0% interest.


Q:  Do you provide airport pick up?

A: We can meet at the airport or you can take a taxi from Tirana International airport to the Rozafa Hotel in Shkodra. Check directions here. Upon arrival, please send us a message or call us. Taking a taxi costs $55 / €45 / £35.


Q: Do the teachers speak in English throughout lessons?

A: Our teaching approach considers the teacher to speak as much as possible in Albanian so students can be exposed to an Albanian-speaking environment. If a student has difficulty understanding anything, our teachers are able to provide explanations in English. Our teachers speak more than one foreign language. 


Q: How many students are going to be in my class?

A: To offer the highest quality of instruction, we offer individual classes and limit class sizes to a maximum of 5 students in order to make sure that everyone is able to get the most out of the experience of learning Albanian in one of the most culturally diverse cities in Albania.


Q: Is there an age limit in your Albanian classes?

A: No. Students are usually placed into classes that best reflect their existing knowledge of Albanian, their level of experience, and their age group, but we’ve often seen the best results from mixed-age classes where you have the chance to mingle with individuals from many different backgrounds.


Q: Can I have any time to myself?

A: This is structured in such a way that you have ample time to explore Shkodra and venture out further.


Q: How many hours of teaching do you provide per day?

A: You can learn Albanian for 3 hours each day with a skilled, multilingual Albanian teacher. Classes are bi-lingual with Albanian, backed up by explanations in English. There is a lot of emphasis on practice in a real-life setting. Besides English, our teacher speaks Italian, French, German as well.


Q: Is there any classroom pressure?

A: The Albanian classes are specifically designed to be enjoyed as a cultural experience through which you will be able to learn Albanian culture and become familiar with the Albanian language. The emphasis is on enriching your world and providing expertise that is truly enjoyable. Neither inside the classroom nor outside it is there any pressure, and our expertly trained tutors work effortlessly to make everything as straightforward as possible for you.


Q: Where do the students at I.A.L.C. come from?

A: The majority of our students come from North America and Western Europe (the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, and Spain), the Balkan region, and some from Eastern Europe.


Q: Is it possible to travel round the town by bicycle?

A: Yes, however drivers aren’t always cooperative with cyclists. Discovering Shkodra by riding or walking is the best option! While you are staying in Shkodra, you will have the opportunity to ride a bicycle for free.


Q: Where I will read additional about Shkodra City?

A: You will read here: Shkodra in your pocket in pdf


Q: What electricity current is there in Albania? Do I need an electrical device / plugs

A: Almost all of Europe uses 220 Volts 50 Hz current, including Albania. United States appliances working on 110 volts require an electrical device and an adapter plug. European appliances require only an adapter plug.


Q: Can I  have internet/web access in my hotel room?

A: If you have a laptop, iPad or iPhone with you, you’ll have free access to the web at the hotel through the Wi-Fi network.


Q: Is the tap water safe to drink?

A: The water in Shkodra is drinkable. However, if you intend to buy bottled water during your tour, we suggest it.


Q: What’s the best length of stay to learn Albanian?

A: There is no real answer to this question. Many of our students enjoy spending one or two weeks exploring ancient sites, visiting Albanian antiquities, learning Albanian and exploring the town of Shkodra and other Albanian attractions during their holidays. Some stay three weeks or more if they have the time. Our aim is to make sure that you make the most of your stay, regardless of how long you stay.


Q: Am i able to extend my stay in Republic of Albania, learning Albanian when my reserved time is up?

A:  Our goal is to assist you no matter what. Your stay will be extended beyond what you originally reserved. So that we can assist you properly, we want to understand your situation as soon as possible so that we can create all the necessary arrangements for classes.


Q: Will I get a certificate?

A:   Everyone who attends our learn Albanian in Albanian language courses receives a certificate.