Adult language class

Learn German

Basic German skills simplify administration, housing and workplace communication. Compare online courses for before arrival with in-person schools and public integration programmes.

Online German courses before arrival

Start learning German before travelling to Germany. Flexible scheduling, English-language platforms.

Recommended
Lingoda
from €65/mo
Live online German classes with flexible scheduling
Live classes with native speakers
Flexible scheduling 24/7
Small group or private lessons
Structured CEFR curriculum
Certificate on completion
Requires consistent attendance for best results
Monthly commitment for best pricing
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Babbel
from €7/mo
App-based German learning for beginners
Very affordable
Learn at your own pace
App-based — study anywhere
Good for beginners
Speech recognition
Less structured than formal courses
No live interaction
Self-discipline required
Start learning
Gold standard
Goethe Institut Online
from €675/course
Official German language institute
Official German certification
Structured online courses
Globally recognised
Professional instruction
All levels A1–C2
Higher pricing
Fixed course schedules
Requires commitment
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Language schools in Germany

Structured in-person learning after arrival. Intensive courses accelerate progress.

GLS Berlin
from €210/week
International language school, intensive courses
Intensive immersive courses
Berlin-based campus
Small class sizes
Accommodation options
In-person attendance required
Berlin location only
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DeutschAkademie
from €250/month
Flexible intensive German courses across Germany
Multiple German cities
Intensive and evening courses
Small groups (5–12)
Affordable
Trial lesson
Class availability varies by city
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Public integration courses

Government-supported language learning options for eligible residents.

Integration Course (Integrationskurs)
Free
Government-supported German language programme
Government-subsidised (often free)
600 hours German + 100 hours orientation
Leads to B1 certification
Available nationwide
Eligibility and waiting times apply
Must be resident in Germany
Fixed schedule
Large class sizes
Learn more

Choosing the right approach

Your learning path depends on your timeline and goals:

  • Before arrival: apps (Babbel) or online live classes (Lingoda, Goethe) are your best options
  • After arrival: intensive in-person courses accelerate learning through immersion
  • Long-term: integration courses are excellent value but have waiting lists
  • For university: many programmes require B2 level — start early
  • For work: even basic German (A1–A2) significantly improves daily life and career prospects
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