What Level of German Is Required to Study in Germany?

Every year, thousands of students from around the world choose Germany as their study destination. The country is known for its high-quality education system and relatively affordable tuition fees, making it an attractive option for international students.

In Germany, it is possible to study in different languages. Many universities offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs taught entirely in English, and some institutions even provide programs in Dutch, Polish, or Ukrainian. However, German remains the primary language of instruction, and most universities require a C1 level of German proficiency for programs taught in German.

Requirements can vary depending on the type of education. For vocational training programs (Ausbildung), an upper-intermediate level of German is often sufficient. Even fewer language requirements usually apply to retraining and further education programs (Weiterbildung), which are designed to be more accessible to international participants.

In this article, we take a closer look at how much German you need to study in Germany and what options are available if your language skills are not yet at the required level.

German Language Levels According to the CEFR

A1, A2, B1, and similar labels are used to describe foreign language proficiency levels across Europe and many other parts of the world. This system has been in place for more than 25 years and is based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), developed by experts from the Council of Europe.

The CEFR provides a standardized way to assess language skills, making it possible to evaluate how well a person can understand spoken language, speak, read, and write — both in everyday situations and in professional or academic contexts.

German language proficiency within the CEFR is divided into six levels:

• A1 — Beginner level. Learners can understand and use very basic German words and phrases when spoken slowly and clearly. They can introduce themselves and ask simple questions about familiar topics.

• A2 — Elementary level. At this stage, learners are familiar with commonly used expressions and can use simple vocabulary to talk about themselves, their family, and routine daily activities.

• B1 — Intermediate level. This level allows learners to manage most everyday situations, discuss work or studies, and talk about personal interests and hobbies with relative confidence.

• B2 — Upper-intermediate level. Learners can participate in more technical discussions, express themselves clearly on complex topics, understand abstract texts, and write structured texts. As a rule, this level is sufficient for working in German-speaking companies.

• C1 — Advanced level. At this level, learners can communicate confidently in almost any situation, understand academic literature, and produce long, complex written texts with a high degree of accuracy.

• C2 — Near-native level. This level enables precise and nuanced expression, even in academic or highly specialized discussions. Speakers at C2 level sound almost indistinguishable from native speakers.

German Language Levels: Summary Table

German Level	What the Student Can Do	Where It Is Required
A1	Understands and uses basic German words and phrases	Initial stages of language learning
A2	Understands frequently used words and expressions related to everyday topics	Initial stages of language learning
B1	Can handle everyday situations and discuss work or studies	Daily communication, studies, and retraining programs (Weiterbildung)
B2	Speaks German confidently, writes on complex topics, and understands abstract texts	Vocational training (Ausbildung) and employment in German-speaking environments
C1	Communicates fluently and confidently on almost any topic	University studies and professional work in German-speaking environments
C2	Expresses ideas clearly, precisely, and naturally, similar to a native speaker	University studies and professions such as lawyer, doctor, or lecturer

What Level of German Is Required for Different Types of Education in Germany

Language requirements in Germany vary depending on the type and format of education.

Universities (Studium)

To study at most German universities, a strong command of the German language is required. In some cases, a B2 level may be sufficient — for example, for certain programs at universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). However, in most cases, students are expected to demonstrate C1-level proficiency.

Without this level, it can be difficult to follow lectures and seminars, actively participate in discussions, read academic literature, and successfully complete exams and written assignments. For certain fields, such as law, linguistics, or medicine, universities may require C2-level German due to the high linguistic and academic demands.

Programs taught entirely in English usually require English proficiency at the C1 level. These include, for example, STEM Master’s programs offered in English. It is important to note that such programs are relatively limited in number and are often highly competitive.

In addition, even if a program is taught in English, learning German remains essential for everyday life, integration, and long-term career opportunities in Germany.

Vocational Training (Ausbildung)

Vocational training in Germany (Ausbildung) combines practical, hands-on training with paid work, allowing students to learn a profession directly on the job. German is required not only for studying but also for everyday communication in the workplace.

Language requirements for Ausbildung are generally less strict than for university studies. In most cases, a B2 level of German is sufficient, and in some professions, even B1 may be accepted. The exact requirement depends on the chosen field. For example, professions in healthcare usually require a higher level of German than roles in accounting or IT.

Retraining and Further Education (Weiterbildung)

Retraining and further education programs (Weiterbildung) are the most flexible form of education for adults and an excellent option for those with an intermediate level of German. The main requirement is the ability to understand the course material, complete assignments, and communicate effectively with instructors — for which a solid B1 level is often sufficient.

With a B2 level of German, students can choose from a wide range of programs and may also be eligible to apply for government funding through the Agentur für Arbeit, Germany’s federal employment agency.

The certified DWW Academy offers training programs in administrative and financial professions in Germany, delivered in simplified German at B1–B2 level, making them accessible to international participants.

German Certificate: Which Certificates Are Recognized in Germany

Speaking German confidently is not enough on its own — in Germany, you must provide an official language certificate issued by an accredited examination center. If you are not a native speaker and did not complete your education in Germany, you will need to formally confirm your German proficiency with a recognized certificate.

There are four main certificates that officially confirm German language proficiency for international applicants:

• TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) — recognized by all German universities
• Goethe-Zertifikat — a widely accepted certificate recognized by universities, employers, and public authorities
• DSH II or III (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) — an academic language exam taken at German universities
• telc Deutsch — a practice-oriented certificate; for university admission, telc C1 Hochschule is required

The most suitable certificate depends on your educational goals and the requirements of the specific institution or authority.

Which certificate do you need?

• For university studies:
  An academic certificate such as TestDaF, DSH, or telc C1 Hochschule is usually required. Goethe C1 or C2 is accepted only if explicitly listed by the university. 
• For vocational training (Ausbildung) or employment:
  Practical language skills are required, most commonly proven with telc B1–B2 or Goethe B1–B2.
• For retraining and further education (Weiterbildung):
  In most cases, any of the recognized certificates listed above is sufficient.
• For residence permits, permanent residence, or citizenship:
  Goethe or telc certificates at A2–B1 level are most commonly required. However, requirements may vary depending on the authority and federal state, so it is always important to check the official guidelines.

If you are not yet in Germany, you can usually take TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat (up to C2), or telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule abroad. The DSH exam is typically an option only after you have chosen a specific university in Germany.

How Long Does It Take to Reach B1, B2, and C1 Levels?

The short answer can be summed up with the German phrase je nachdem — in other words, “it depends.”

The speed of language learning depends largely on individual factors. These include whether a learner already speaks another foreign language at C1 level, how easily they memorize vocabulary, and how consistently they complete homework assignments. The learning format also plays an important role: self-study, group courses, or one-on-one lessons with a teacher all lead to different results. In addition, the choice of learning program and exposure to a German-speaking environment can significantly influence progress.

Ultimately, persistence and motivation are decisive factors in long-term success.

On average, reaching an advanced level of German from scratch takes around 4–5 years or approximately 840 academic hours of study.

A1 — 120 academic hours A2 — 120 academic hours B1 — 120 academic hours B2 — 240 academic hours C1 — 240 academic hours C2 — 270 academic hours

German Language Certificate Course: How to Prepare for the Exam

Even learners who already speak German confidently need targeted preparation for official language exams. Exam formats, task types, and assessment criteria require specific strategies.

Here are the key steps to prepare effectively:

1. Familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Study the structure, time limits, and evaluation criteria. For example, TestDaF has strict timing for listening tasks, while Goethe exams place strong emphasis on spontaneous speaking.

2. Determine your current language level.
A placement test will help identify which skills need the most attention and prevent you from preparing blindly.

3. Create a balanced study plan.
Your schedule should cover all four core skills: Lesen (reading), Hören (listening), Schreiben (writing), and Sprechen (speaking).

4. Use official preparation materials.
Practice with materials provided by the Goethe-Institut, Telc, or the TestDaF-Institut to become familiar with real exam tasks and formats.

5. Practice structured writing.
Train writing letters, essays, and descriptions using standard formats commonly expected in exams.

6. Develop your speaking skills strategically.
Practice describing images, commenting on news topics, and answering questions based on short texts — all common exam tasks.

7. Create a German-language environment.
Watch films, read articles, and listen to podcasts in German to improve comprehension and internalize natural language patterns.

8. Simulate exam conditions before the test.
One day before the exam, complete a full mock test under timed conditions to reduce stress and improve time management.

Conclusion

Germany offers international students the opportunity to obtain a high-quality education at any stage of life. The level of German required to study in Germany depends on the chosen field and type of education.

While university programs usually require C1-level German, vocational training and retraining courses often accept B1–B2. For this reason, it is essential to define your educational goals in advance, carefully review the requirements of the chosen institution or program, and confirm your language proficiency with an officially recognized certificate.

FAQ

1. Is it mandatory to speak German to study in Germany?

Not always. Germany offers study programs in several languages, including English and, in some cases, Russian. However, the majority of universities and educational formats still require at least some knowledge of German.

2. Where can you study in Germany with a B1 level of German?

In most cases, C1 level is required. Sometimes B2 may be accepted, especially at universities of applied sciences. For linguistically demanding fields, such as law or medicine, C2 may be required.

3. What level of German is required for university admission?

In most cases, C1 level is required. Sometimes B2 may be accepted, especially at universities of applied sciences. For linguistically demanding fields, such as law or medicine, C2 may be required.

4. Which German language certificates are recognized in Germany?

The main recognized certificates are TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, DSH, and Telc Deutsch. The most suitable certificate depends on your academic or career goals and the requirements of the institution.

5. How long does it take to learn German up to C1 level?

On average, reaching C1 level takes around 4–5 years or approximately 840 academic hours. However, the exact timeframe depends on motivation, learning format, consistency, and prior experience with foreign languages.