Russian 1 (A0 → A1-)

Learn Russian from scratch: get acquainted with the Cyrillic alphabet, engage in simple conversations and build self-confidence. You’ll work toward level A1-with practical exercises.

Level

0 – A2 (Beginner)

Location

Class Sessions, Virtual Classroom

Class format

General

Class hours

1 hours 30 minutes

About the Russian 1 course for beginners

Would you like to explore the Russian language and culture? This beginner’s course will help you take your first step. You’ll learn the Cyrillic alphabet and practice speaking and listening. You’ll work on practical situations, such as introducing yourself and placing an order. This will boost your confidence and encourage you to communicate more and more in Russian.

In 9 Russian lessons:

  • you are familiar with the Cyrillic alphabet and can read Russian;
  • you can understand simple conversations based on key words;
  • Introduce yourself and greet others;
  • ask for directions and understand simple instructions;
  • order your food and drinks in Russian;
  • you’ll be introduced to basic grammar, such as cases and verbs.

In this course, you will work toward language level A1-. By the end of the course, you will understand how the Russian language works and have laid a solid foundation for further learning. After completing this course, you can move on to Russian Course 2.

Time investment

Sessions

This course consists of 9 meetings.

Lesson duration

Each class lasts 90 minutes.

Frequency

In this course, you will have classes once a week.

Self-study

You spend 2-3 hours per week on self-study.

0:00 / 0:00

Who is it for?

The Russian 1 course is designed for anyone who has not learned Russian before. You want to challenge yourself and use Russian in the future for work, study or travel. The language of instruction during the course is Dutch, but the teacher also speaks Russian whenever possible. You are motivated to actively practice outside of class. This way you make rapid progress and get the most out of the lessons.

Determine your language level
Would you like to know which course best suits your language level? We would be happy to help you! Take our free placement test and receive personal advice so that you get the most out of the course.

Do you prefer to take classes in a different format? Check out the options.

Private lesson

One-on-one

Want to make faster progress with personal attention? With 1-on-1 lessons, you’ll receive customized guidance tailored to your learning goals and pace.

Business

With your colleagues

Looking for a course for your team or organization? Choose a hands-on customized course that is fully aligned with your organization’s goals.

Schedule

View the schedule for the different start dates here:

1 September 2026
18:30 - 20:00
Campusplein 13-14, Utrecht
Still 17 spots
1 September 2026
18:30 - 20:00
Online, Virtual Classroom
Still 14 spots

Pricing

Course price: € 295,-
Excluding course materials

A language course is an investment in yourself. In your self-confidence. In your future in the Netherlands or beyond. That’s why at Babel, we work with you to figure out the costs. You don’t always have to pay for a course yourself. Sometimes DUO helps out. Sometimes your employer does. And sometimes you get a discount. Find out what’s possible for you. Read more about the Funding for your course.

Method

Our teaching method combines a structured approach with hands-on working methods. The lessons are active, personal, varied and practical. There is always attention for your learning style, pace and level. Curious about how we design this course?

Approach

You work alternately in pairs, small groups and classrooms. You practice with realistic situations such as introducing yourself and ordering something. In class you will speak as much Russian as possible, so you will make rapid progress and build up your confidence.

Teaching Materials

You work with the book ‘Passport to Russia’ (text and workbook), supplemented with additional exercises. The material helps you to apply the language directly in practical situations and supports you in learning grammar and vocabulary. Before the start of the course we will inform you how you can easily order the learning materials, so that you can start your lesson well prepared.

Teachers

You will be taught by an experienced teacher who will guide you step by step in learning Russian. The teacher provides targeted feedback on your pronunciation, grammar and communication. In addition, you will gain insight into Russian culture, customs and language usage so that the language really comes alive.

Certificate of Participation

You will receive a certificate of participation from us if you have actively participated in at least 80% of the meetings.

Do you have a question?

 

Frequently asked questions

How do I know which Russian language level suits me?

To make sure you enrol at the right level, you can take our free placement test. This test will help you assess your current level of Russian. Once you’ve completed it, the test will be marked by one of our experienced teachers, who will provide you with personalised feedback. That way, you’ll know exactly which level suits you best.

Can I make up a missed Russian class?

Unfortunately, in group courses it is not possible to make up a missed lesson, because the lessons take place at fixed times for the whole group. Through the lesson materials, homework and lesson plan in MyBabel, you can work through the missed material independently, so that you can continue to follow the course well.

Can I pay for my Russian course in installments?

You pay the course fee in a single payment. You can do this upon registration via iDEAL, credit card, or by having your employer pay the invoice.

What are the advantages of a group language course?

A group language course offers the opportunity to learn and practice with others. You benefit from interactive lessons, learn from the questions and experiences of fellow students, and have plenty of opportunity to use the language actively. In addition, the group dynamic often provides extra motivation and a pleasant learning environment.

What is a virtual classroom?

A virtual classroom is a live online language course in which you take lessons together with a teacher and other students. You participate via Zoom or Teams, for example, and actively practice during the lesson. This combines the interaction of a group lesson with the convenience of online learning. Many students choose this form because of its flexibility.