Free & Affordable German Courses — VHS, Online, Apps

Free German Courses

Integrationskurs (BAMF-funded)

• 600–900 hours of German instruction + 100 hours orientation course
• Goal: Language level B1
• Cost: €2.29/hour (personal contribution) — with Bürgergeld/social assistance: free
• Registration: through BAMF (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge)

Volkshochschule (VHS)

The VHS offers affordable German courses in almost every city:
- A1–C1 courses
- Cost: approx. €100–300 per semester (reduced approx. €50)
- Evening courses, intensive courses, weekend courses
- Registration: directly at your local VHS

Free Online Platforms

Free Apps

• Duolingo — gamified, good for beginners
• Ankommen (BAMF app) — specially for newcomers
• busuu — community-based learning
• Tandem — find language partners

Affordable Options

Professional Language Courses (DeuFöV)

• From level B1 onwards — job-related German
• Free for job seekers and Bürgergeld recipients
• Goal: B2 or C1
• Registration via Jobcenter or employment agency

University Language Courses

• Often free for enrolled students
• Studienkolleg for preparation before university

Language Levels Explained

Tips

• Start with the Integrationskurs if you're eligible
• Supplement the course with apps and online exercises
• Speak German in everyday life — every conversation helps

Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.