Learn foreign languages in Germany

The broadest offering is in English, French, Spanish and Italian — you will find these courses from A1 to C2 at almost every larger language school. Depending on the location, other languages follow, often in smaller groups or as private lessons. If you are looking for a less commonly taught language, it is worth checking Volkshochschulen and university language centres, which frequently have a wider range than private schools.

A general course builds up grammar and everyday vocabulary. Business English builds on that and trains situations from working life: chairing meetings, presenting, negotiating, writing emails and reports, making phone calls. Entry usually requires at least B1 — without solid foundations, specialist vocabulary gets you nowhere. Business English makes most sense once you already know which industry you want to work in.

The most widespread are the Cambridge exams (B2 First and C1 Advanced among them), TOEFL and IELTS. Cambridge certificates have no expiry date and are well established with employers. TOEFL and IELTS are geared towards university admission and are normally valid for two years. Which exam fits is decided by whoever receives it: first check what your target university or employer requires, and only then sign up for the matching preparation course.

In principle yes, and many schools make it possible through evening or weekend courses. Two things to bear in mind: two new languages at beginner level at the same time slow each other down, and if you are in Germany on a language course visa, your German course still has to cover the required weekly hours — the foreign language course does not count towards them.

Yes. Private lessons cost considerably more per hour than a group course, but you set the pace, the content and the dates yourself. They pay off above all when you have a concrete goal with a deadline — an upcoming exam, a presentation, an assignment abroad — or when your level does not match any of the groups on offer. For building up steadily across several levels, a group course usually offers better value for money, because you also practise speaking with others there.

Reputable schools run a free placement test before the course starts, usually written plus a short conversation. Do not rely on a self-assessment: land in a course that is too easy and you lose weeks; start too high and you lose the thread. If a school offers no placement test at all, treat that as a warning sign.