4 language learning apps going free during this pandemic

Online learning resources are emerging as lifesavers for students when one-third of humanity is on lockdown.

Here’s another good one to add to your list: Free language apps going free during this quarantine period.

In response to stay at home orders in several parts of the world, several language-learning resource providers are unlocking their paid features for the near future.

So if you’ve always wanted to become fluent in French (to make your date swoon) or Mandarin (for world domination purposes), here’s an opportunity to make it happen. We’ve rounded up some of the free language learning apps to help you turn this virus lockdown into a productive foreign language learning sesh:

Besides her native English and Hebrew, famous polyglot Natalie Portman also speaks German, Spanish and Japanese. Source: Amy Sussman/Getty Images North America/AFP

Rosetta Stone

This leading language learning app is offering free access for the next three months to aid K-12 homeschooling. If you’re back in your family home, why not brush up on a foreign language while teaching your younger sibling?

Rosetta Stone is known for its immersive learning approach to language learning. It’s all about learning to speak like a local in any of the 24 languages.

All you have to do is download the app (preferably on an Apple device, as that’s where all 24 languages are available) and register. Next, start the 10-minute daily lessons and repeat as many times as necessary.

Babbel

Babbel is another of those free language apps that are typically best with a paid subscription. Luckily, K-12 and college students in the US will get unlimited free access for the next three months.

This free language app focuses on European languages. Therefore, you’ll be able to polish your Dutch, Spanish, Turkish, even Polish in exciting sessions that last from 10 to 15 minutes.

Free language apps offer a new way to explore the world from home. Source: Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP

Babbel differentiates itself from other language learning apps by offering lessons relevant to personal interest, backed by scientific ideas. Therefore, you can curate your learning according to your purpose. Do you want to get fluent to make new friends or to beef up your resume for future work abroad?

Either way, you can pick up helpful tips and tricks in your native language to make learning easier.

Fluent Forever

This app also bases its claims in neuroscientific methods. It uses personalised flashcards and spaced repetition, two dynamic cognitive tools that ensure your learning occurs at an optimal pace.

Additionally, Fluent Forever bases its lessons on the Four-Step Method. The first step is training ears with pronunciation lessons. Then, learn vocabulary through images, understand grammar through stories, and lastly – this feature is still in progress – practise with native speakers.

Lessons will be free for 30 days in this time of quarantine. Simply use the code STUCKATHOME when subscribing.

Learn Korean to finally understand BTS. Source: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images North America/AFP

LingoDeer

Of all the language learning apps, LingoDeer should be your choice for Asian languages. You can sharpen your Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese, but you can also find other popular foreign languages here.

For one, this app recognises aspects of languages that learners may not be familiar with in their native language. It also offers lessons in tiers, so if you have beginner knowledge, you can skip to intermediate sessions.

Users have reported great satisfaction at understanding their favourite Japanese anime and K-dramas.
LingoDeer’s premium features are now available to all for 30 days at US$1. Use the code REMOTE when signing up to get this special deal.

Liked this? Then you’ll love…

Can mobile apps really help you learn another language?

This portal has digital storybooks in 50+ languages