Beginner's German

These courses for beginners cover all aspects of German needed for basic communication routines and familiarize with the distinctive structures of the language. Our classes (including the online classes!) are communication-oriented and encourage active participation.  

You can choose between

• our Early Bird courses (two times per week, 8.15-9.45h)
• or the Evening Classes (two times per week, 18.15-19.45h)

during the complete semester. (Summer term: April through July, Winter term: October through February)

Classes are available at a range of levels starting from complete beginners (A1.1) up to intermediate level (B1.2).   

We have both classes that take place digitally on Zoom and face-to-face-only classes. Please find our courses in the summer term 2026 here!  

Please note: successful course participation requires regular attendance (2x week) and additional preparation time  / homework assignments. You should calculate about 6 hours for all together (course + homework). Please make sure that you really have enough available time! 

Textbook: Kurs DaF A1 / A2 / B1 (Klett).

Registration for the 2026 summer semester: March 13 – March 22, 2026. If you have any questions, please email to: german4researchers@daf.uni-tuebingen.de.

4 Steps to Registration:

Step 1 Take the placement test at your current level and save your score (f.ex. by taking a screenshot). The test links are now available below.

This test is obligatory for the Early Bird and Evening Classes – unless you are a complete beginner (= level A1.1). Please do not be tempted to use aids like a dictionary etc! Its important to find the class that fits your actual language skills.

Please choose the test that corresponds to your level. Enter the password, and then follow the instructions. Duration of the test: 45 minutes (Test 1 and 2), or 60 minutes (Test 3). Please note: The test will start immediately after you have entered the password. You can only take the test once!

Test 1 (if you are aiming for a class on the level A1.2 or A2.1; previous knowledge 60 - 120 hours of German). Password: German24

Test 2 (if you are aiming for a class on the level A2.2 or B1.1; previous knowledge 120 - 240 hours of German). Password: German24

Test 3 (if you are aiming for a class on the level B1.2; previous knowledge > 240 hours of German). Password: German24

Step 2 Fill in the online application form. The form is closed. If you have any questions, please email to german4researchers@daf.uni-tuebingen.de.

Step 3 After we have reviewed all applications, you will receive a message via email to let you know if we can offer you a place at your level, including detailed information for making your payment (80 € course fee for Master Students & 150,00 € for everyone else). Make your payment right away to secure your place. We will not confirm your payment - you are all set.

Step 4 Your teachers will contact you with details for your first meeting in class, shortly before classes begin.

Please note: If you withdraw from the course, we will retain a processing fee of 10 €. We will not refund the course fee if you withdraw after Tuesday, April 14, 2026!

Many international students and PhD candidates are interested in working in Germany. This may take the form of an internship, a part-time job alongside their studies, or employment after graduation. For this reason, this course offers you the opportunity to expand your German vocabulary related to careers and professional life in small groups.

We will practice typical professional communication scenarios in Germany, such as telephone conversations, discussions during the job search process, and meetings with colleagues. In addition, we will jointly examine various types of professional documents, including application materials, cover letters, and employment references, and engage in detailed discussions about written communication in the workplace.

This course will help you prepare for professional settings and gain confidence speaking German when dealing with jobs, employment, and internships.

Do you have any suggestions or ideas concerning this course?
Please feel free to share your suggestions here!

4 classes on Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on April 25, May 16, June 13 and July 11

Teacher: Irmela Franjkovic

Registration is open now until April 15 directly via registration form.