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Language Tandem - Questions and Answers

COVID-19 – Is it currently possible to participate in a language tandem?

Yes, even at this unusual time there is the possibility of participating in a language tandem. Due to the Corona crisis, "virtual meetings" (i.e. telephone and video conferences) are currently recommended. However, possible meetings in the current situation also include walks and visits to cafés, subject to the necessary minimum distance.
How do I sign up?

Please look around our website. There are quite a few things you should know before signing up. We will need certain information about you. That is why you first need to register with us, and afterwards, you can begin creating requests for a language tandem.
How do I register?

Please go to the login page at the Tandem Partner System (TAPAS) and complete the registration form with all the required information. If and when you have successfully done this, you will receive an email with an activation link, which will take you directly to your first request. You can log in again at any time using your password and username. This way, you can make additional requests, accept or deny suggestions, and delete previous partners and requests.
Why Tapas?

More than 300 active users are registered on Tapas. Registration is quick and simple. We have an instant idea of what is important for you when we match you with a partner. We are always available for questions for matched users of Tapas.
I would like to work with multiple partners. Is this possible?

Yes. Once you have logged in, you can create new requests for tandem partners to find an additional partner – regardless of whether it is a partner for the same or a different target language. In other words, we will make an additional suggestion for each new request. That being said, the number of requests is limited to three because more than three tandem arrangements are unrealistic.
I would like to work on multiple languages. Is this possible?

Yes. Once you have logged in, you can create new requests for a partner for an additional language. We will try to match you with someone for each language.
I have registered and made a request. What now?

We will now do our best to find a suitable tandem partner for you. As soon as we have found a person, you will receive an email from us, allowing you to contact them.
My language tandem is not working out.

If at the beginning of (or during) your tandem, you notice that you and your partner do not get along, you can reject your partner on the online platform. You can also come to us for advice.
For how long will I be registered?

You can delete and/or reset your registration and requests at any time. To keep our system updated, we send out automated emails warning idle users that their account will be set to inactive unless they wish to keep it active. You can also temporarily set your account to inactive if, for instance, you leave for a semester abroad. If your account has been automatically set to inactive, you can send us an email to reactivate it. Otherwise, it will be deleted after one year.
Who will have access to my data?

For ensuring high-quality matching, we need a large amount of data. We thank you for your trust! We assure you that your data will only be used to match you with a tandem partner and to manage your tandem arrangement. No-one but the tandem team will have access to the data you share with us. You account is password-protected and registration only happens via an encrypted connection. Unless otherwise requested, your potential partner will only see your name, email address and of course your introductory text.
Am I guaranteed a partner?

No. We can only match the people who make requests with us. We also reserve the right to withhold matching a potential pair if we feel that it would not be a good match. At the same time, we see the checked items as preferences only. If there are thing you would like to exclude categorically, please make a comment to that effect in the comments box.
I don’t speak German very well!

No problem. You can switch the tapas platform to English by clicking on the button ("English" or "Deutsch") in the upper right corner.
I have been matched with someone, but the activation link in the email does not work.

You can always register directly on the login page and manage your account. Here you can also view and modify tandem suggestions.