FAQ

FAQ

I have never learned Chinese before. What should I do?

We understand that unexpected situations arise, and you may not always be able to attend a scheduled session. To accommodate this, each course includes a set number of rescheduling Welcome — you’re in the right place!

At ShuoHao, we guide complete beginners step by step towards real-world Chinese communication.

You have two main ways to start:

  • Video Courses – Learn at your own pace, anytime
  • Live Classes – One-on-one lessons with our teachers

For complete beginners, we recommend starting with our Pre-Class Video Course, which introduces essential basics such as pronunciation and foundational concepts.

After that, you can move on to live classes, where your teacher will guide you through structured lessons tailored to your level and goals.

What is My First Class?

My First Class is a 50-minute consultation and demo lesson with one of our experienced teachers.

During this session, you will:

  • Discuss your learning goals
  • Have your current level assessed
  • Receive recommended learning materials
  • Get clear guidance on your next steps

See terms and conditions note 4 for more details.

Is “My First Class” compulsory?

No, it is completely optional.

“My First Class” is designed as an optional trial session for students who would like to experience our platform before beginning their Chinese learning journey.

If you already know what you would like to study, or if you are ready to book multiple classes, you can go straight ahead and purchase a class package instead.

Can I choose my teacher?

Yes, absolutely.You can browse our teachers’ profiles and introductions on the Teaching Team page. When booking a class, simply select your preferred teacher and choose a time that suits you.

Where can I see the teacher’s availability?

You can view a teacher’s availability when booking a class through the My Live Classes tab.Alternatively, you can visit the Teaching Team page and check each teacher’s availability on their profile.

Do I need to worry about time zones when checking teachers’ availability?

Our website automatically detects your location and adjusts each teacher’s availability to your local time zone.

To ensure this works correctly, please refrain from using a VPN services.

Please note that while we have teachers based around the world, the majority are located in Taiwan. We recommend checking a teacher’s availability before booking to ensure suitable times are available for your schedule.

See terms and conditions note 11 for more information.

Can I study with the same teacher consistently?

Yes.

Our teachers’ schedules are available up to three months in advance, allowing you to book regular time slots.

If you prefer consistency (such as the same time each week), we recommend booking lessons in advance to secure your preferred teacher.

Please see terms and conditions note 12 for more details.

Can I message my teacher?

Yes.

Once you have booked a class and it has been confirmed, your teacher will send you a message through the ShuoHao messaging system (located at the bottom of the menu bar).

From there, you can send and receive messages with your teacher if needed.

Why can’t I book a lesson for the same day?

Our lessons are fully prepared and personalised, not just casual conversation sessions.

Each class includes:

  • Structured topics
  • Targeted vocabulary
  • Relevant grammar points

To maintain this quality, teachers need time to prepare your lesson in advance.
For this reason, same-day bookings are not available.

How far in advance can I cancel or reschedule a class?

You can cancel or reschedule a class up to 48 hours before the scheduled time.

To do this:

  1. Go to the “My Appointments” tab
  2. Select your class
  3. Click the three-dot menu

If the option is unavailable, it means you are within the 48-hour window and the lesson has already been confirmed.

See terms and conditions note 6 for more details.

What is the validity period of my package?

Each package has a different validity period:

  • 10 hours – 3 months
  • 25 hours – 6 months
  • 50 hours – 1 year
  • 100 hours – 2 years

The validity period begins from the date of purchase.

We recommend choosing a package that matches your learning schedule to make full use of your lessons.

Please see terms and conditions notes 8 and 9 for more details.

Can I switch courses or plans?

Lessons are sold in packages, with larger packages offering a lower average hourly rate.

Please note:

  • Packages have different validity periods
  • Validity begins from the purchase date
  • Packages are transferable at a fee, see terms and conditions note 10 for more details

You may purchase additional packages, but we recommend finishing your current package first to avoid overlapping validity periods.nd choosing a package that matches your learning schedule to make full use of your lessons.

Are there assessments or exams?

We do not include mandatory assignments or exams.

However, if you are preparing for a proficiency test such as HSK or TOCFL, we can tailor your lessons to support your exam goals.

Simply let your teacher know your objectives.eriods.nd choosing a package that matches your learning schedule to make full use of your lessons.

Why do I need two-factor authentication (2FA)?

To protect your account, we use two-factor authentication (2FA).

Each time you log in, you will receive a verification code via email.
This helps ensure your account and lesson packages remain secure.

Is payment only available in USD?

We use PayPal for payments.

At checkout, PayPal allows you to choose:

  • USD, or
  • Your local currency

depending on your preference.

What is your refund policy?

We follow the rules and regulations of the private education refund polices in Taiwan.

See terms and conditions notes 2 and 3 for more information

What payment methods do you accept?

We currently accept credit cards and PayPal as payment methods.

Do you offer installment payment plans?

At this time, we do not offer installment plans. All courses must be paid for in full and in advance.

Do you offer corporate or group enrollment plans?

Yes, we do! If you’re interested in group learning for your company or organization, please contact our support team with details about your needs. We are happy to customize a learning plan for corporate teams.

Do I need any specific equipment or software for the classes?

You only need a stable internet connection.

Classes are held via the integrated Zoom application on our website. For the best experience, we recommend using a computer or laptop with a secure and reliable internet connection.

You do not need to download Zoom or create an account, you simply join by clicking the link we provide.

What should I do if I forget my password?

If you forget your password, simply click “forgot my password” and the system will send you a password reset link.

How can I contact customer support?

The best way to reach us is via email, but we also offer support through WhatsApp and LINE.

Can I download course content for offline viewing?

Course recordings are stored on our website and are accessible at any time during your course. However, they cannot be downloaded for offline viewing.