Here I have tried to list down few pros and cons of learning at a government institute, then at private institutes/school/university, hiring a private tutor and going down the self-learn path. This list is not complete at all, nor is it sufficient. If you are venturing out to acquire a skill, it should be your responsibility to do your research!
Learning at a government institute (in India, this would be the Goethe-Institut/MMB)
Pros: maximum resources available, German speaking environment, thorough exam training, cultural immersion through festivals, unlimited library access, excellent networking
Cons: costliest, can not repeat missed classes, wait-lists for enrollment, limited flexibility, fast paced, limited growth if not revised regularly
Approx. teaching cost per level: between INR 20-25,ooo
Learning at a private institute/school/university
Pros: slow paced, bilingual environment, cheaper alternative to Goethe and private tutor, good for networking overall
Cons: limited exam training and resources available, syllabus completion might not be thorough, limited tutoring hours, teaching quality varies
Approx. cost per level: between INR 10-20,ooo
Private Tutoring
Pros: flexibility, can offer personalized course plan, one can do background check, more attention to you, more time to practice, revise and doubt clearing
Cons: slacking if the student and the tutor are not disciplined, might go on for a longer period, rescheduling classes again and again will slow you down
Approx. teaching cost per level: INR 500-4,500/hr
Self-learning
Pros: cheapest option, maximum flexibility, self paced with resources that work for you, access to free resources
Cons: illusion of choice, not all free resources are beneficial, not bound by time, no guidance
Apart from this, you also have to pay the Goethe-Institut/MMB for the exams you write.
Money should never be the only deciding factor, for language is a lifelong skill and any money should you put, is your investment in learning and gaining that skill. It is only with practice that you can master your skill. You should be ready for a lifelong commitment when it comes to learning a language, school and work aside, a language will always open new doors of opportunity!
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