Germany is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, attracting thousands of international students every year. However, for those looking to study in Germany, one of the most crucial questions is: What level of German do I need? The answer depends on the university, the subject of study, and whether the program is taught in German or English.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the German language requirements for studying in Germany, distinguishing between different universities, degree programs, and academic fields.
1. Understanding the German Language Proficiency Scale
German language proficiency is assessed using the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which categorises language skills into six levels:
A1 (Beginner) – Basic phrases and simple communication.
A2 (Elementary) – Can understand and use common expressions.
B1 (Intermediate) – Can handle everyday conversations and simple academic content.
B2 (Upper-Intermediate) – Can understand complex texts and express ideas fluently.
C1 (Advanced) – Can comprehend difficult texts and communicate effectively in an academic setting.
C2 (Proficient) – Near-native fluency in speaking, writing, and understanding.
For most German-taught degree programs, B2 or C1 is the minimum requirement. However, some universities and subjects may require C2, while others offer preparatory courses for students with lower proficiency.
2. German Proficiency Requirements by Type of University
There are two primary types of higher education institutions in Germany:
a) Universities (Universitäten)
Traditional universities that focus on research and offer a wide range of academic disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, medicine, law, and engineering.
Language Requirement: Typically C1 (sometimes B2) for German-taught programs.
Example: Universität Heidelberg, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.
b) Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)
More practice-oriented institutions focusing on applied sciences, business, engineering, and social work.
Language Requirement: Usually B2, but some require C1.
Example: Hochschule München, TH Köln, FH Aachen.
Many Fachhochschulen also offer English-taught programs, reducing the German language barrier.
3. German Language Requirements by Degree Level
The required German proficiency varies between undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
a) Bachelor’s Degrees (Undergraduate Programs)
German-taught bachelor’s programs generally require C1 level.
Some universities accept B2 if the applicant commits to language courses before or during the first year.
Example: Universität Hamburg requires C1 for most programs, but some accept B2 with intensive courses.
b) Master’s Degrees (Postgraduate Programs)
German-taught master’s programs typically require C1, though some technical subjects may accept B2.
Many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields offer English-taught master's programs, requiring little to no German.
Example: Technische Universität München (TUM) offers English-only master’s programs in AI and Engineering but requires C1 for German-language master’s degrees.
4. German Proficiency Requirements by Subject Area
Some subjects require higher levels of German due to their reliance on communication and German-specific legal or cultural knowledge.
a) High German Proficiency Required (C1-C2)
Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy
Requires C1 or C2 because of patient interaction and medical terminology.
Example: Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin requires C1-C2 for medical students.
Law
Requires C1 or C2 as students must study German law and legal texts.
Example: Universität Heidelberg requires C2 for Law.
Humanities (History, Philosophy, Literature, Education)
Requires C1-C2 due to a heavy focus on text analysis, essays, and discussions.
Example: Goethe-Universität Frankfurt requires C1-C2 for Philosophy.
b) Moderate German Proficiency Required (B2-C1)
Business, Economics, and Social Sciences
Many universities accept B2, but some require C1.
Example: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München accepts B2 for Business.
Engineering, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences
Some programs accept B2, especially in applied sciences.
Example: RWTH Aachen requires B2 for Engineering, but C1 for Humanities.
c) No or Low German Proficiency Required (A1-B1)
STEM English-Taught Programs
Many STEM master's programs are fully in English and require no German.
Example: Universität Stuttgart’s Master’s in Aerospace Engineering is taught in English.
Preparatory/Foundation Programs (Studienkolleg)
If your German is below B2, you may need to complete a Studienkolleg (foundation course).
Typically lasts one year and prepares students for university entry.
5. How to Prove Your German Language Proficiency
If your course is taught in German, you must submit proof of your language proficiency. The most common recognized language certificates are:
TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
Required by most German universities.
C1 is the standard required level.
DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
Equivalent to C1/C2.
Offered at some universities.
Goethe-Zertifikat
C1 or C2 is accepted at many universities.
telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
Recognised by German universities for C1-level applicants.
6. What If My German Isn't Good Enough?
If you don’t meet the language requirements, you have several options:
Work with Olesen Tuition
We offer small-group German classes, intensive German courses, and one-on-one German lessons that help you learn German properly and in a short period of time.
Enrol in a Studienkolleg
For students with B1-B2, this one-year preparatory course improves language and academic skills.
Take a University Language Course
Some universities offer intensive German courses before your studies.
Choose an English-Taught Program
Many master's programs, especially in STEM, are taught entirely in English.
Self-Study and Retake Language Tests
Improve your German and retake TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat.
7. Conclusion: What Level of German Do You Need?
Study Type | Language Requirement |
Bachelor’s (German-taught) | C1 |
Master’s (German-taught) | B2-C1 |
Medicine/Law/Humanities | C1-C2 |
Engineering/Science (German) | B2-C1 |
STEM (English-taught) | No German required |
Studienkolleg (Foundation) | B1-B2 |
Final Thoughts
If you want to study in German, aim for C1 proficiency.
If you want to study in English, check for English-taught programs in your field.
If your German isn’t strong yet, consider working with Olesen Tuition, a Studienkolleg or university language course.
With proper preparation and the right program choice, you can study in Germany successfully—whether in German or English! 🇩🇪🎓
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