Of course, it is! Especially now. Thanks to technology, self- studying a language (or any other subject) can bring impressive results at a low cost if it is done right.
Firstly, try to determine what is possible to get done without the help of a teacher or a tutor.
It soon turns out that to do most of the things that will help you improve your language, you do not need anything, just your commitment. Have a look at all those low-cost/free alternatives to expensive language courses:
- Vocabulary. Make your own word lists or use the ones already made that are available online. Use language learning apps. Or create your own flashcards, if you prefer. Some people believe that writing a word yourself helps you remember it better. It is entirely up to you. Use a method that is most effective for you.
2. Listening and reading. It is not that expensive to get audio books online, some of them are entirely free. Listen to them while relaxing or exercising so you can pay attention to what is being said. There is no need to write here about watching films in a foreign language, everyone knows that. Read magazines, news, posts in a foreign language. Try to avoid spending lots of time repeating grammar. Each day you should aim to spend at least 30 min on using the language you are learning. Read, listen, think in it, no matter what is your level. At first, it is difficult, but soon it will come to you naturally.
3. Speaking. This obviously requires interactions with a human being. Try to reach out to people who use the language you are learning. Make friends with them and talk. Do not worry about mistakes! Actively seek opportunities to communicate. Find a partner to form a language exchange relationship. You can get conversational classes online once or twice a week if you wish.
4. Writing. This part of language acquisition tends to be quite tricky. It is because we do not spend enough time on practice. Try to write something at least 3 times a week (a letter, an essay, a review, etc.). It is good to have someone to check on your work and suggest improvements. It does not mean that you need to pay high tuition fees nor that you need to leave your house and waste time travelling to school. Directly send your work to the tutor, and he or she will send you feedback via email. You can also consider using online proofreading apps.
Finally, remember that the best outcome of devoting yourself to self-studies, apart from learning a new skill, is the fact that this helps you develop something crucial to success in any field: discipline. The good news is that discipline is something we all can learn. Just stay focused and work hard!