Learn German language Courses in Germany for International Students

As an international student picking up the local language is essential not only to help you study your chosen stream but also to make the best of the traditions and culture of your adopted country. Unleash your German and unlock German education with this guide to studying in Germany.

Germany is a great place for Indian students who want a high-quality education at a lower cost. Public universities in Germany with no tution fees are the major attraction for international students.

While many German university courses are taught in English, knowing German can make your life in Germany much easier and more enjoyable. It helps you understand your classes better, talk to local people, and manage daily tasks like shopping or using public transport. Learning German also gives you more job options in Germany and other parts of Europe. This article will help you understand why learning German in Germany is a smart choice and how to get started.

What are the Benefits of Studying German in Germany?

In this section, we are going to be looking at the benefits of studying German in Germany for Indian and international students looking to study in Germany. 

1. Immersive Learning: Living and studying in Germany exposes international students to the local language (German) in daily interactions, accelerating their fluency and comprehension.
2. Cultural Understanding: Candidates will gain a deeper appreciation for German culture, traditions, and humour through everyday experiences.
3. International Network: Studying alongside students from across the globe fosters friendships and broadens worldviews.
4. Increased Confidence: Mastering a new language boosts your confidence and opens doors to future academic and professional opportunities.

Why learn German in Germany?

Germany is renowned for its top-tier universities in the world and vibrant cultural landscape, making it an ideal destination for higher education. For Indian students, having proficiency in the German language is not just beneficial but important.​

While many academic programs are offered in English, daily life in Germany predominantly operates in German. From reading grocery labels and understanding lease agreements to navigating public transportation, fluency in German enhances your overall experience and integration into society.​

Moreover, mastering the language opens doors to a broader range of academic courses, facilitates deeper connections with peers and faculty, and significantly boosts employment prospects within Germany and the broader European job market.

How do you Learn German in Germany? 

An international student in Germany has access to multiple resources to learn the German language. Many sensible students pick up the language in their native countries before they arrive in Germany, thus saving time to devote fully to their field of study. Learning German from scratch is difficult, but not impossible.

German Language Courses in Germany

Your field of study is the key to looking for a suitable German course aligned to your context. The best place to start with is your university language centre who impart working knowledge to incoming international students. You are of course free to choose a range of private German language courses in major cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Cologne, to name a few. Germany offers a variety of German language courses catering to international students:

1. University-affiliated Programs: Many universities run intensive German language courses specifically designed for international students. These courses often lead to TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) or DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für das Hochschulstudium) qualifications, which are pre-requisites for German university admission to degree programs.
2. Private Language Schools: Spread across German cities, private language schools provide a diverse range of courses, from intensive programs to part-time options. They cater to various proficiency levels, from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2).
3. Volkshochschulen (VHS): These adult education centers offer affordable German language courses at various levels, often with flexible schedules.

Related Reads

Learn German in Germany: Finding the Right Course

The various available options can be confusing to an international student. The best solution is to first ascertain the type of student you are and what your needs are. There is no dearth of combinations suiting your preference. But while choosing a course and meeting your needs, it is sensible to check out the cost to see if it fits your budget. The more the advantage, the higher the cost. Consider these factors when choosing a course:

1. Your Current German Level: Assess your existing language skills through online placement tests offered by language schools or the Goethe-Institut.
2. Course Intensity: Intensive courses (20-30 hours per week) accelerate learning but require full-time dedication. Extensive courses (less than 18 hours) allow for a more balanced approach.
3. Location: Germany offers a variety of vibrant cities, each with its unique charm. Consider factors like cost of living, proximity to universities you plan to attend, and cultural offerings.
4. Budget: Compare course fees, accommodation costs, and living expenses across different cities and schools.

How to apply for a German language course? 

The most popular mode of application is online, where you have to fill in your details and the course you wish to pursue along with your preferences. If your university seeks B1 level eligibility, choose one that offers this competency level. The school will confirm your place once you fulfil the application formalities. 

What is the duration of a German language course? 

Depending on your previous knowledge of the German language, your chosen level and the course provider; learning the German language should take 4 to 8 weeks to get to a beginner level. However, it is also dependent upon how fast you can learn and absorb the language. 

What is the Cost of Studying German in Germany? 

Understanding the financial aspects is crucial for planning your language studies in Germany. Here's a breakdown tailored for Indian students:​

• Tuition Fees: Language courses range from €250 to €1,200 per month, depending on the institution and course intensity.

• Accommodation: Monthly rent varies between €300 and €600, with cities like Berlin and Leipzig being more affordable than Munich.

• Living Expenses: Budget around €200 to €300 monthly for food, transportation, and other essentials.

• Health Insurance: Mandatory for all students, costing approximately €100 per month.​

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on personal lifestyle and city of residence.

What level of German should you learn? 

German language proficiency is categorized into six levels:​

• A1 & A2: Beginner levels focusing on basic communication.

• B1 & B2: Intermediate levels enabling more complex conversations and understanding.

• C1 & C2: Advanced levels suitable for academic and professional settings.

Most of the universities expect their international students with a B1 level of German as a primary requirement. 

Why Study in Germany?

In this section, we are going to discuss the top reasons to study in Germany. 

1. Academic Excellence: German universities boast a stellar reputation for rigorous academics and cutting-edge research, across diverse fields like engineering, medicine, and social sciences. Many programs are taught in English, but German proficiency opens doors to a wider range of options and deeper engagement with professors and classmates.
2. Affordable Education: Public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education (except for a nominal administrative fee), making it an incredibly cost-effective option compared to other Western nations.
3. Cultural Tapestry: Germany's rich cultural heritage is a constant source of fascination. From exploring medieval castles to indulging in vibrant music and art scenes, fluency in German allows you to experience the heart of German life.
4. Career Prospects: German is the official language of Europe's economic powerhouse. German language skills enhance your employability with multinational companies operating in Germany and strengthen your professional network across Europe.

As an Indian student, you are lucky that English as a mode of communication has a global spread, but there are countries in Europe where the local language predominates over other languages. Germany is one such country that is a choice destination for international students to pursue an education in varied streams in a host of world-class universities. Candidates can get in touch with our Shiksha Counselling services for assistance with university admissions. 

Also, read

• Popular Job Sectors in Germany
• Steps to Study in Germany for Free
• Germany Student Visa Guide