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Current New Student Rates
The following rates apply to current new students. Lessons are taught online from Tochigi, Japan.
Lesson Duration
Rate per lesson
Best Suited For
30 Minutes
$25 USD
Conversation practice, reviews, pronunciation, and focused exercises.
45 Minutes
$35 USD
Budget-friendly structured Japanese lessons.
60 Minutes
$45 USD
Your standard comprehensive private lesson.
Every regular lesson is live, private, and taught directly by Mike Viscusi. The $45 rate applies to students taking two or more lessons per week.
Simple Gaijin is designed around consistent, ongoing instruction. Students must take lessons at least once per week. Twice-monthly, monthly, and other infrequent lesson arrangements are not offered.
Current and Returning Students
Current students who continue lessons through the move to Japan will keep their existing rates. Former students who are not actively taking lessons and re-enroll on or after November 1, 2026 will be charged the new-student rates shown above.
The minimum frequency of once per week applies to all students, including those keeping an existing rate.
What Your Lesson Time Includes
You receive one-on-one instruction suited to your experience and learning needs, with explanations, practice, and feedback based on the work you need to do. Lessons can follow the structured curriculum or focus on an agreed learning goal.
You work with the same instructor, so your previous lessons and progress can shape what comes next. Your questions have a place in the lesson rather than being something you have to resolve alone afterward.
Begin With a Conversation About Fit
01
Share Your Background
Tell Mike why you want to learn, what you have studied, and what feels difficult. Complete beginners are welcome, and students with previous Japanese experience can work with Mike to determine an appropriate starting point.
02
Check Your Schedule
Include your time zone, whether you want one lesson or two or more lessons per week, and possible study times. Availability is arranged individually, including for students outside the United States when scheduling and payment arrangements are practical.
03
Confirm the Details Before Enrollment
Discuss your starting point, lesson arrangements, and materials with Mike before you enroll so you understand the practical details.
Payment and Cancellations
Payment is due after each lesson. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled lesson and no-shows are charged the full lesson fee. Please review the complete student policies before enrollment.
Learning as a Teen
Simple Gaijin accepts students age 13 and older. A parent or guardian must be appropriately involved and provide consent for a minor's participation.
If you are inquiring for your child, include their age and learning background when you get in touch.
Choose Between Weekly or More Frequent Study
One lesson per week is a complete private lesson option. Students wanting more frequent guided instruction can take two or more lessons per week at the discounted rate. Consider your time for practice between lessons as well as your lesson schedule.
If you are unsure where to start, Mike can discuss your goals and the schedule options available. You can also browse frequently asked questions.
