Have Questions? Get Answers.
Getting Started
How do I get started learning a new language?
Language learning is one of the most exciting journeys you can enjoy in life!
There are many ways you can start or continue your own journey with CSL:Group Classes (for ages 14+)
Customized Lessons
Workplace Training (ideal for teams & workplaces)
Kids' Classes and Programs
Immersion Experiences (great ways to practice locally and abroad)
and more!
We're ready to support you every step of the way!
You can explore some of our own students' journeys here.
What materials or supplies do I need for classes?
When you register for a class on our website, you’ll see any additional materials required for that class at checkout.
We work hard to keep the cost of any required textbooks or materials as low as possible.
How can I contact CSL with any additional questions?
You can learn more about how and when you can contact us here.
Group Classes
How do I know my level and which group class would be best for me?
You can learn more about our levels here.
Still not sure?
Contact us at info@chattanoogalangauge.com or 423-802-2040 and we'll be happy to help!
Will I be fluent after I complete a 10-week Group Class?
First of all, we love your enthusiasm!
Fluency is the result of highly-advanced proficiency in a language that is combined with deep cultural understanding. The number of years it takes to become fluent depends on a lot of factors, including the language you are learning and your first language (e.g. an English speaker will be able to become fluent in Spanish more quickly than in Chinese or Arabic).
Learning a language is like learning a musical instrument. It’s a lifelong journey of always growing and discovering something new.
CSL's group classes follow the standards and levels laid out by the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) and CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) proficiency scales.
By the end of a 20-30 hour group class, you should achieve the competencies assigned to the appropriate level of language proficiency before moving to the next level.
We use these standards as over-arching guides, but we always adapt and customize aspects of our group classes to meet students' particular needs.
Motivation, quality input in the language and self-study play a huge role in the rate of your progression and mastery of a language. The more time you spend in the language, the faster you'll grow!
When do group classes happen? When can I register?
You can find all of the dates you need for group classes in the CSL Calendar.
Where are in-person classes held?
CSL is located in St. Elmo (view map). While many of our in-person classes are held in this space, others take place at various locations across the greater Chattanooga area in the spaces of some of our program partners.
If you sign up for an in-person class, the class location and address will be listed with the class information when you register.
I signed up for a group class, but it didn’t meet minimum enrollment. What happens now?
All group classes for ages 14+ must have at least 4 students to meet minimum enrollment, unless otherwise listed. Kids' group classes must have at least 5 students.
CSL reserves the right to cancel any class if it does not meet minimum enrollment.
If your class doesn’t meet minimum enrollment, we will contact you the week before classes begin (when registration closes) to discuss your options, which could include:
- Converting your payment into customized lessons. Please note that there is a price difference between group classes and customized lessons.
- Offering you a 100% credit toward a future group class.
- Refunding your payment in full.
Please note that when you register for a class with CSL, you are automatically agreeing to all of our policies, terms and conditions.
If I have to miss a group class session, how can I make up the material?
Please contact your teacher, and s/he will email you the material that was covered in class. We cannot offer make-up lessons for you individually if you miss a group class.
For virtual classes, each class is recorded, and you can access your class recording in your class Google Drive folder to review it at a time that's more convenient for you. You'll have access to the class recordings throughout that particular term.
Can I get a refund if I stop coming to my group class once it’s started?
If you have registered for a class and would like to withdraw, you must do so at least 7 days prior to the start date of the class in order to receive a full refund.
If you decide to withdraw during the first week of classes, you can receive a credit of 75% of your class payment to use for the next term of classes. No credits will be issued after the first week of classes.
Please note that NO refunds will be issued for student withdrawals once classes have started, or for missed classes. This applies to group classes and customized lessons.
You can view our full refund and credits policy here.
Customized Lessons
The group class schedule doesn’t work with my schedule. Can I take Private Lessons?
Yes, definitely!
We understand that the days and times of our group classes don’t always align with everyone’s schedule. You still have options!
Private, customized lessons are a great option if you need us to work with your schedule.
If you enjoy the group class setting and learning alongside peers and friends, we can create a customized group (3+ students) or semi-private (2 students) class.
For all customized lessons, we connect you with a CSL teacher for a consultation where s/he will work with you to develop a plan and schedule that meets your unique interests, goals and needs.
What if I have to cancel a private lesson or put my lessons on hold for a time?
You can view our 12-Hour cancellation clause and policy for the expiration of hours here.