International Language Guidelines for the University of Tübingen

UT is increasingly internationalizing its course program by offering English-language courses and degree programs, particularly within the framework of CIVIS and virtual formats such as COIL. Students are encouraged to learn additional languages, while international students are invited to actively participate in University committees where English may be used as an additional working language. To ensure the quality of teaching, adequate language skills in the language of teaching are required and specified in the admission requirements.

UT has seen a rise in the number of international researchers and supports their integration by offering English-language orientation programs and German courses to make everyday life and academic careers in Germany easier. Good German language skills are particularly important for permanent researchers and for participation in University committees, while English language skills remain essential for research and international cooperation. Despite the dominance of English, the University remains committed to German as an important language of academia.

UT strives for efficient administration that meets the needs of international researchers and students, while German remains the official language. Important administrative documents are therefore provided in English translation or with an English courtesy translation that is not legally binding, and forms are supplemented with English instructions for completion. Administrative departments should improve their English language accessibility, supported by language courses and consideration of English language skills when hiring new staff.

UT communicates internally in two languages for the most part, with key web content, newsletters, and signage available in German and English. Additional languages can be added as needed to reach specific target groups. In external communications, press releases are written in two languages depending on the topic, while German takes precedence in locally focused publications.