How does the process for studying German in Germany work?

Learning direct German in Germany opens doors to incredible educational and work opportunities. The country offers structured language courses that allow you to develop fluency while experiencing German culture on a daily basis. Understand how each step of this process works and prepare for that journey.

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Why studying German in Germany is different

When you study German in your own country, learning happens in a natural and accelerated way. Every conversation at the supermarket, every interaction on public transport, and every everyday situation becomes an opportunity to practice. German schools offer immersive methodologies that combine structured classes with real experiences.

The German labor market is hot and is looking for qualified professionals. Mastering the local language can be your differential to win vacancies with salaries that even exceed the average for Germans. Brazilians are among the ten highest-paid nationalities in the country, with an average of €4,565 per month.

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Types of German courses available

Germany offers different course formats that adapt to your objectives. Intensive courses generally have a workload of 20 to 25 hours per week, accelerating your learning. You can choose standard courses with a more relaxed pace, personalized individual lessons, or even programs that combine German with part-time work.

For those planning to enter a German university, there are specific preparatory courses that focus on academic vocabulary and prepare you for the proficiency exams required by the institutions. Get to know the best universities to study in Germany helps you define what level of German you need to achieve.

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Proficiency levels: from A1 to C2

The European classification system divides learning into six levels. You start at A1 as an absolute beginner, going through A2 basic, B1 intermediate, B2 advanced intermediate, until reaching C1 advanced and C2 complete proficiency. Most German public universities require level B2 or C1.

Each level generally takes 8 to 12 weeks to complete in an intensive course. This means that a dedicated student can go from zero to B2 in approximately one year. Courses in Germany use up-to-date materials and native teachers who guarantee correct pronunciation from the start.

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Requirements and necessary documentation

To enroll in a German course in Germany, you need a valid passport, financial proof (Blocked account with approximately €11,904 for one year) and international health insurance. Depending on the length of the course, a student visa may be required.

Brazilians who are going to study for up to 90 days can enter as tourists. For longer periods, a student visa is mandatory and must be applied for while still in Brazil. The process includes acceptance letter from the school, financial proof, and translated documents. A complete documentation to study in Germany varies depending on the length and type of the program.

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Costs involved in the process

Course fees vary widely. An intensive course at a private school can cost between €400 and €800 per month, while courses at public universities (Volkshochschulen) are more affordable, starting at €200 to €400 per month. Add expenses for housing (€400 to €800), food (€250 to €350), and transportation (€80 to €100).

The initial investment with a blocked account guarantees your stay. With Minimum wage of €12.82 per hour in 2025, many students work part-time to cover extra costs. The legislation allows you to work up to 20 hours a week while studying.

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Recognized certificates of proficiency

After completing the German levels, you can obtain official certifications. The TestDaF is accepted at virtually all German universities and assesses all four language skills. The Goethe-Zertifikat, issued by the German Cultural Institute, is internationally recognized.

Another option is the DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang), specific to university admission. Each exam has a different format and costs between €150 and €200. Choose the certificate that best aligns with your professional or academic goals.

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Most popular cities to study

Berlin attracts students for its vibrant cultural life and relatively low cost of living. Munich offers exceptional quality of life but has higher prices. Hamburg combines cosmopolitanism with proximity to the sea. Frankfurt is the country's financial center and has a strong labor market.

Smaller cities like Heidelberg, Freiburg, and Marburg provide quieter, study-focused environments. The important thing is to choose a location that matches your profile and objectives. Large centers have more job opportunities, while university cities offer welcoming student communities.

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Student visa: step by step

The visa process begins with confirmed enrollment in a German course. Gather all documents required by the German consulate, including passport, photos, completed form, proof of blocked income, and health insurance. Schedule your interview in advance, as vacancies tend to sell out quickly.

During the interview, clearly demonstrate your study objectives and future plans. The consulate assesses whether you have financial conditions and a genuine intention to study. Upon approval, you receive an initial visa that will be converted into a residence permit in Germany. The entire process takes 6 to 12 weeks.

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Housing during the course

Accommodation options include student residences (Studentenwohnheim), shared flats (WG), and individual studios. Student housing is cheaper (€200 to €400) but has a long waiting list. WGs are popular with students, cost €300 to €500, and provide cultural integration.

Many language schools offer assistance with finding housing. Some have partnerships with homes or host families. Start the search at least two months in advance. Sites like WG-gesucht and ImmobilienScout24 are useful tools for finding accommodation.

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Work permit during studies

German students can legally work in Germany, following certain rules. With a student visa, you have the right to work up to 120 full days or 240 part-time periods a year. That amounts to around 20 hours a week. Jobs within the university don't count.

The most common jobs for students include a waiter, a store attendant, a library job, or an office assistant. The minimum wage guarantees decent income even in starting positions. In addition to compensation, working accelerates your language learning and expands your professional network.

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Post-course options: university or work

Once you've mastered German, you can take different paths. Many students join university programs in Germany, taking advantage of free public education or scholarships at private institutions. The country has more than 400 universities and colleges with excellent programs.

Another alternative is to seek professional qualification through Ausbildung, a program that combines technical training with paid work. You receive a salary during training and guarantee practical experience. For those who prefer to work directly, the German market offers opportunities in technology, engineering, healthcare, and other areas.

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Online course as preparation

Start to Learn German online before traveling significantly accelerates your progress. You arrive in Germany on a solid foundation and make the most of the first few weeks. Online courses with native teachers develop correct pronunciation right from the start.

Structured programs offer live classes, complete teaching material, and recognized certificates. Flexibility allows you to study at your own pace, fitting classes into your routine. Some students reach level A2 or even B1 before boarding, which makes it easier from arrival at the airport to initial interactions at school.

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Transportation and mobility system

Germany has an efficient and punctual public transport system. Students generally buy monthly passes (Semesterticket) that cost between €80 and €150 and cover the entire metropolitan area. Metro, train, bus and tram work in an integrated manner.

Bicycles are a very popular mode of transportation in German cities. The cycling infrastructure is excellent and you can buy a used bike for €50 to €150. Many people use a combination of public transport and bicycle on a daily basis. For trips between cities, regional trains have special rates for students.

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Cultural integration and networking

Participating in cultural events helps a lot with language learning and adaptation. German schools organize extracurricular activities such as visits to museums, conversation meetings (Stammtisch), and excursions. These occasions are great for practicing German in informal settings.

Apps like Tandem and Meetup connect you with natives interested in language exchange. Brazilian groups in Germany offer support and share experiences. Joining sports clubs, choirs or volunteer groups broadens your social circle and accelerates integration into German society.

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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The German winter can be challenging for Brazilians. Low temperatures and short days require adaptation. Invest in appropriate clothing and enjoy indoor activities. Maintaining an exercise routine and a healthy diet helps with physical and mental well-being.

The German bureaucracy is famous for its complexity. Register (Anmeldung) at the city hall as soon as you arrive. Open a local bank account to facilitate payments. Organize all documents into physical and digital folders. With patience and organization, bureaucratic processes become simpler.

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Be Easy

Be Easy offers full support for you to study German in Germany safely and with peace of mind. Our team accompanies from choosing the ideal course to its adaptation in the country, ensuring that each stage of the process is successful. Contact us and make your dream a reality.