FAQ

Before you begin, find your answers

Answers about starting from zero, choosing a course, learning across time zones, lesson costs, bookings and membership.

Which Chinese course should I choose?

Choose private lessons for individual attention, a group course for practice with classmates, or an online course when learning remotely is your priority. Learn & Travel combines language with cultural experiences in China; IB Tutorial supports IB Chinese studies; Exclusive courses address a specific team or personal brief. Compare your goals, current level and availability before choosing.

Compare the six courses

Can I learn with SureMandarin if I am a complete beginner?

Yes. Tell us that you are starting from zero when requesting a consultation. A beginner learning plan can start with Pinyin, tones and useful everyday phrases. If you have studied some Chinese but are unsure of your level, try the free level test and discuss the result with an advisor; it is a starting point, not an official language qualification.

Try the free Chinese level test

What is the difference between private and online Chinese lessons?

Private describes who attends: one learner working directly with a teacher. Online describes where the lesson happens: remotely. These are not opposite formats—a private lesson can also be online. Tell your advisor whether individual attention, learning with others or avoiding travel matters most, so the format can be confirmed for your course.

Explore online lessons

Can I take Chinese lessons from another country or time zone?

Online learning allows you to attend remotely. In the consultation form, enter your time zone and preferred date and time. Your requested slot is not a confirmed booking: an advisor will check teacher availability and confirm the arrangement with you. Include your city when a seasonal clock change could affect the time.

Discuss your schedule

How often should I study Chinese, and when will I see progress?

The right schedule depends on your starting level, target and practice outside lessons. Share the time you can realistically set aside and a specific goal, such as ordering food or preparing an oral presentation. An advisor can help plan lessons and review points. There is no single timetable that guarantees fluency for every learner.

Read Chinese learning strategies

What information should I provide for IB Chinese tutoring?

Share the exact IB Chinese course you take, your level, assessment dates and the skills or tasks you need help with. This lets the tutor discuss relevant language practice, feedback and assessment preparation. Confirm that your specific syllabus and support needs can be covered before enrolling.

View IB Chinese tutoring

How does a Learn & Travel Chinese course work?

The course combines practical Mandarin learning with cultural experiences in China. Before booking, discuss your destination, travel dates, Chinese level and interests, and confirm the itinerary and what the quoted programme includes. Language goals can focus on useful situations such as transport, shopping and ordering meals.

Explore Learn & Travel

How much do Chinese lessons cost? Is the consultation free?

The Chinese learning consultation is free and does not require you to enrol. Ask for a course-specific quote based on the lesson format, frequency and learning plan. Confirm lesson duration, total hours, what is included and the cancellation terms before paying. Membership benefits and course tuition should be confirmed separately.

Request a free learning consultation

Can I change or cancel a lesson?

Contact your learning advisor in advance. Changes depend on teacher availability and the terms confirmed for your course or booking. Before enrolling, ask about the notice period, cancellations and how missed lessons affect your remaining lesson hours.

Read the booking and cancellation terms

Are membership and course enrolment the same thing?

No. Membership provides the content and service benefits described for that membership. Teacher-led course enrolment and available lesson hours follow the course agreement and your account records. Confirm whether a particular course or service is included before making a payment.

View membership information

Can I practise Chinese before booking a course?

Yes. You can try the free Chinese level test, read the Knowledge Center and explore the seven-day Daily speaking challenge. These are ways to practise and identify questions to discuss with a teacher; they do not replace a personalised lesson plan or a formal language assessment.

Try the seven-day speaking challenge
More questions? Book a free learning consultation