For many international students, attending a German language school is the first step toward studying at a German university. This pathway is especially common for students who need to improve their German level, prepare for university entrance exams, or transition into Studienkolleg or Bachelor/Master programs. This guide explains how language schools work, how to choose the right one, required German levels, costs, visas, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Many Students Choose the Language School Route
Language schools offer:
• an opportunity to reach required German levels (B2–C1)
• intensive daily practice
• cultural immersion
• preparation for DSH / TestDaF / Telc exams
• a bridge into Studienkolleg or university programs
Universities set strict German requirements, so language schools help students meet them efficiently.
Types of German Language Schools
There are two main types:
1) Private Language Schools
Examples:
Goethe-Institut, Berlitz, DID, Sprachcaffe, Hartnackschule, etc.
Pros:
• flexible start dates
• intensive daily classes
• many cities available
• faster progression (if full-time)
Cons:
• higher cost
• quality varies between institutions
2) University Language Centers
Many universities offer language courses through their Sprachzentrum.
Pros:
• higher academic quality
• more structured lessons
• ideal preparation for DSH
Cons:
• limited seats
• only fixed start dates
• slower admission process
German Levels Required for University Admission
Typical requirements:
For Studienkolleg
• entrance exam normally requires B1–B2
• FSP and final study require C1
For Bachelor Programs (German-taught)
• C1 required
• Accepted certificates:
• DSH-2
• TestDaF 16+
• Telc C1 Hochschule
• Goethe C2
For Master Programs (German-taught)
• C1 almost always mandatory
For English Programs
• German not required, but basic German helps with daily life
Visa Requirements for Language School Students
If you need a visa to enter Germany, you can apply for a Language Course Visa (Sprachkursvisum).
It requires:
• proof of enrollment in an intensive language course
• minimum 18–20 lesson hours per week
• blocked account
• health insurance
• passport + documents
Important difference:
Language Course Visa ≠Student Visa
You cannot switch directly from language course visa to full student visa inside Germany in most countries.
Some nationalities must return home to apply for the student visa.
Always check your country’s rules.
How to Choose a Good Language School
Look for:
• qualification of teachers (DaF-certified)
• exam preparation focus (DSH/TestDaF/Telc)
• class size (smaller = better)
• student reviews
• schedule flexibility
• location and housing options
• whether they provide official certificates
Red flags:
• extremely cheap courses
• unclear refund or visa policies
• overcrowded classrooms
• no official accreditation
Typical Costs
Language school costs vary by city and provider:
• Private schools: €300–€600 per month
• Goethe-Institut: €1,000–€1,300 per level
• University language centers: €250–€450 per course
Additional costs:
• exam fees (€150–€250)
• course materials (€20–€50)
• accommodation (€300–€700/month)
How Long Does It Take to Reach University-Level German?
Typical full-time learning times:
• A1 → A2: 2–3 months
• A2 → B1: 2–3 months
• B1 → B2: 2–3 months
• B2 → C1: 3–5 months
Total: 9–14 months
(depends on student background, intensity, and effort)
Pathways After Completing Language School
Completing B2–C1 allows you to:
✔ Apply for Studienkolleg
(if your diploma requires it)
✔ Take university language exams
• DSH
• TestDaF
• Telc C1 Hochschule
✔ Apply for Bachelor or Master programs
(if language requirements are met)
✔ Enter certain vocational or foundation programs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• choosing cheap, low-quality schools
• taking non-intensive courses that don’t qualify for visas
• underestimating the difficulty of C1-level German
• switching schools too often (visa problems)
• assuming English programs don’t require German (daily life still requires it)
• failing to prepare for TestDaF/DSH early
Summary
Language schools are an essential pathway for many international students entering the German university system. They help students:
• reach C1 language level
• pass important exams
• transition into Studienkolleg or degree programs
• adapt to German culture and study styles
With proper planning and choosing a reputable institution, the language school route is one of the most effective ways to begin your academic journey in Germany.