About Polyglottist Language Academy · Berkeley, California

A small school.
A wider world.

We’re an independent language school for adults, with small-group classes in downtown Berkeley and live lessons online. At PLA, language learning is personal: real teachers, room to ask questions, and time to put what you’re learning into conversation.

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2014 Our Berkeley story began here.
Our small-school spirit continues.
Usually 3–6
Students in a group
Live teachers
Conversation and guidance
Two ways to join
Berkeley or online

Berkeley, from the beginning.

PLA began in 2014 with French and Russian classes. The school has grown to offer a broader range of languages while keeping the personal scale that makes a small class feel different.

Our roots are in Berkeley, where different languages, backgrounds, and perspectives meet every day. We bring that spirit into lessons that connect language with the people and cultures behind it.

There’s no single reason to start: travel, family, work, or simply the pleasure of understanding more of the world. There’s a place for that curiosity here.

Meet our instructors

What learning here feels like.

  • Small enough to take part.

    Most groups have 3–6 students, giving you space to speak, listen, and ask questions. Lessons combine conversation with the vocabulary and grammar that help you use the language.

  • A rhythm you can build on.

    Most group terms include six weekly one-hour classes. Check each listing for its format, schedule, and dates, then choose a course that fits your week.

  • A starting point that fits you.

    Brand new or returning after a break? Read the language page’s level guidance, use our class level guide, or ask us for help before registering.

Start with a language and see its current classes, teachers, and learning options.

In person

Meet us in Berkeley.

Our classrooms are in downtown Berkeley, on the second floor.

2161 Shattuck Avenue
Suites 234–235
Berkeley, California

Online

Join from wherever you are.

Online lessons bring the same live, teacher-led approach to your own space. Available group and individual options vary by language; each language page shows what you can book.

Ready to begin? Explore the current schedule, or contact us if you’d like a hand choosing a class. Registration is online.

Find your class