9 Ways to Master Spanish on a Budget

Learning a new language can be a rewarding experience and it doesn't have to come at a high cost.

9 Ways to Master Spanish on a Budget
Photo by Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash

Learning a new language can be a rewarding experience, but it can also come at a high cost. For those looking to master Spanish on a budget, there are a variety of techniques and resources available to help save money. In this article, we'll explore nine tips and tricks for learning Spanish on a budget.

1. Use Free Online Resources

The internet offers a vast array of free resources for learning Spanish. Websites like Duolingo and Memrise offer free language lessons that can be accessed from your computer or smartphone. YouTube is also a great resource for language learning, with a variety of channels dedicated to teaching Spanish for free.

Duolingo is a solid choice for many learners. Here's a more in-depth review with tips:

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2. Borrow Books and Audio Materials from the Library

Many public libraries offer free access to language learning materials. This includes books, audio CDs, and even language learning software. Borrowing materials from the library is a great way to save money while still being able to access a variety of learning resources.

3. Practice with a Language Exchange Partner

One of the best ways to learn a new language is to practice with a native speaker. Language exchange partners can help you improve your listening and speaking skills in Spanish. You can find language exchange partners on websites like iTalki and Tandem, where you can connect with other learners and native speakers for free.

It is easy to get going on Tandem. Give it a try:

Chat with Spanish Speakers for FREE on Tandem
Tandem allows you to connect with Spanish speakers and practice your Spanish in an immersive setting. It’s free and you can try it from the comfort of your home.

4. Join a Language Learning Meetup

Many cities offer language learning Meetup groups that allow learners to practice their language skills with others. These groups are free to join and offer a great opportunity to meet other learners and practice your Spanish in a social setting.

5. Watch Spanish Movies and TV Shows

Watching movies and TV shows in Spanish is a great way to improve your language skills. You can find Spanish-language content on Netflix and other streaming services, or by renting DVDs from your local library. Watching content in Spanish can help you improve your listening and comprehension skills, as well as expose you to native Spanish speakers.

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6. Use Language Learning Apps

In addition to Duolingo and Memrise, there are a variety of language learning apps available for free or at a low cost. Babbel and Rosetta Stone offer apps that are specifically designed to help learners improve their Spanish skills. These apps offer a variety of lessons and activities that can be completed on your smartphone or tablet.

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7. Take Advantage of Free Language Learning Events

Many language schools and cultural centers offer free language learning events. These events can include Spanish conversation groups, cultural events, and language learning workshops. Taking advantage of these free events can help you improve your Spanish skills while also meeting other learners.

8. Use Social Media

Social media can be a great resource for language learners. Following Spanish-language accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram can help you improve your reading and comprehension skills. You can also join Spanish-language groups on Facebook to connect with other learners and practice your Spanish.

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Next steps

Learning Spanish on a budget doesn't have to be difficult. By using free resources, taking advantage of language exchange partners and events, and practicing with language learning games and social media, you can improve your Spanish skills without breaking the bank.