How long does it take to learn German while studying in Germany?

Learning German in Germany is one of the most effective ways to master this challenging language. But the question that every Brazilian asks himself is: how long does it really take? The answer varies according to several factors, from your initial level to the intensity of your studies and your daily exposure to the language.

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Factors that influence learning time

Your starting point determines a lot about the journey. Those who have never had contact with German will need more time than someone with basic knowledge. Age also matters, although motivated adults often compensate for any disadvantage with dedication and focus.

The intensity of the chosen course makes a significant difference. 20-hour weekly programs accelerate progress compared to part-time courses. Additionally, your willingness to practice outside the classroom, talking to locals, watching German television, or working part-time, can dramatically reduce the time needed.

As our guide shows on German for beginners, preparation before the trip can significantly accelerate the entire learning process.

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Realistic schedule by levels

From zero to basic (A1): 2 to 4 months

Starting from absolute zero, you will need 2 to 4 months to master level A1. This period varies according to the intensity of the studies. With intensive courses of 20 hours per week and constant practice, many students reach this level in 8 weeks.

On the A1, you'll be able to introduce yourself, do basic shopping, and have simple conversations about familiar topics. It's the first solid step to living in Germany.

From basic to elementary (A2): 3 to 5 additional months

Evolving from A1 to A2 requires another 3 to 5 months of consistent studies. In this phase, you will develop vocabulary for more complex situations and begin to understand the German grammatical structure.

A2 allows communication in familiar routines and description of aspects of your past, environment, and immediate needs. Many students report that it is at this point that German “begins to make sense”.

Towards the intermediate (B1): 4 to 7 months

The jump to B1 is significant, requiring an additional 4 to 7 months. Here you will develop fluency for work situations and studies. As demonstrated in our article on Job opportunities without fluent German, even with B1 there are already interesting professional opportunities.

Upper Intermediate (B2): 6 to 10 months

Achieving B2 requires persistence and extra dedication, generally 6 to 10 months in addition to B1. This level allows you to participate in technical discussions, understand complex texts, and express elaborate opinions.

The B2 is often required for admission to German universities and opens doors to qualified positions in the labor market. Our guide From zero to B2 details specific strategies to achieve this objective in 12 months.

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Advantages of full immersion

Studying German in Germany offers unparalleled advantages compared to learning in Brazil. Constant exposure to the language dramatically accelerates progress. Every trip to the grocery store, conversation with neighbors, or TV show contributes to your language development.

Positive social pressure also helps. When you need to communicate to solve everyday issues, your brain will adapt more quickly. This practical need forces you to overcome shyness and practice constantly.

Working part-time while studying further enhances results. Even in simple positions, you will develop specific vocabulary and gain confidence in professional communication.

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Comparison with other languages

Unlike English, which Brazilians absorb more easily due to cultural exposure, German requires specific dedication. As our analysis of Time to learn English, Germanic languages require more time than Latin languages.

Compared to Spanish, which Brazilians master relatively quickly because of its similarities with Portuguese, German requires extra patience. However, our research on fluent in Spanish in Spain demonstrates that immersion always accelerates any learning process.

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Strategies to accelerate progress

Maximizing your time in Germany requires a smart strategy. Choose accommodation with native Germans instead of living with Brazilians only. Participate in social activities, sports clubs, or specific interest groups.

Consume German media on a daily basis. Start with children's programs for basic vocabulary, progressing to newscasts and documentaries. Apps like Anki for vocabulary and Deutsche Welle for student-adapted news are valuable resources. If you want to know more about how to increase your level of German before arriving in Germany, check out our online language program.

Set specific weekly goals: learn 50 new words, watch two movies without subtitles, or hold a 30-minute conversation. Consistent small goals produce impressive results.

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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

German grammar intimidates many Brazilians, especially the cases (Nominativ, Akkusativ, Dativ, Genitiv). Don't try to memorize all the rules simultaneously. Focus on common patterns and practice context by context.

Pronunciation also challenges, but immersion naturally solves this problem. Record your own voice repeating native phrases and compare with originals. Voice recognition apps help identify areas that need improvement.

The psychological aspect is crucial. Periods of frustration are normal, especially between A2 and B1. Celebrate small victories: understanding a joke, solving a problem at the bank, or making friends with a German colleague.

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Programs available for Brazilians

O Study and work program in Germany by Be Easy offers unique opportunities to combine formal learning with practical experience. This combination significantly speeds up language proficiency.

German universities also offer specific preparatory courses for foreigners. These programs integrate language teaching with cultural orientation, facilitating your academic and social adaptation.

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Optimistic versus realistic schedule

Under ideal conditions, intensive course, high motivation, constant exposure and natural aptitude, it is possible to achieve B2 in 12 to 18 months. However, more realistic schedules place this objective between 18 and 24 months.

Don't be discouraged if your progress seems slow. Each person has a unique rhythm, and factors such as stress, work, and cultural adaptation influence learning. The important thing is to maintain consistency and not give up in difficult times.

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Be Easy

Be Easy offers full support for your German learning journey in Germany, from choosing the best city to programs that combine intensive studies with job opportunities. Our experience ensures that you make the most of each month invested in your language development. Contact us to find out how to accelerate your path to German fluency.