Is German Required to Study in Germany? Here’s the Truth.

Administrator (Abyaas)
Oct 10
4 min read

Updated: Oct 11

If you’ve been researching higher education in Germany, you’ve probably asked the most common question:

“Do I really need to learn German to study in Germany?”

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — it depends on what, where, and how long you plan to study. In this blog, let’s break down everything you need to know — from English-taught programs and language levels (A1–C1) to how much German you actually need to survive, study, and succeed in Germany.

https://www.abyaas.co.in/germanformasters — German Language Isn't Optional

The Reality: You Can Study in English, But…

Yes, it’s possible to study in Germany entirely in English, especially for Master’s and PhD programs.There are over 2,000+ English-taught courses across engineering, management, and science fields. However — and this is where most students get it wrong — even if your classes are in English, your life in Germany won’t be.

Daily life, internships, and most job opportunities require at least basic German communication skills (A2–B1).

In Germany, English gets you through the classroom — German gets you through life.

When You Don’t Need German

Here are situations where you can study without knowing German:

✅ 1. English-Taught Master’s Programs

Common in fields like engineering, computer science, management, and natural sciences.
Universities like RWTH Aachen, TU Munich, and University of Stuttgart offer international courses.

✅ 2. Private Universities

Many private institutions (like IU International University, GISMA, SRH Heidelberg) offer 100% English programs.

✅ 3. Exchange / Erasmus Programs

Usually 1–2 semesters abroad, English-based coursework.

💡 Tip: Even in these cases, universities appreciate applicants who show basic German interest (like A1 level) — it signals adaptability and seriousness.

When German Is Mandatory

For most Bachelor’s programs and certain public university Master’s programs, German is essential.

You’ll need to prove proficiency with one of these exams:

TestDaF: B2–C1 Level
DSH: C1 Level
TELC Deutsch B2 or C1 Hochschule

Common Situations Requiring German:

Bachelor’s programs at public universities
Medicine, law, or humanities degrees
Dual study (study + work) programs
Internships or part-time jobs involving German-speaking environments

Even if your course starts in English, some universities require you to reach B1/B2 before the final semester.

German Language Levels Explained (CEFR Framework)

Level	Hours of Study (approx.)	What You Can Do
A1	60–80 hrs	Understand simple phrases, introduce yourself
A2	80–100 hrs	Handle basic conversations, shopping, travel
B1	100–120 hrs	Discuss work, study, daily life in detail
B2	120–150 hrs	Communicate fluently in academic/professional settings
C1	150–200 hrs	Understand complex ideas, academic discussions

🎯 Recommendation: Start with A1–A2 while in India → Reach B1 before visa or first semester → Aim for B2 during study period.

Importance of German Beyond Admission

Even if you get into an English program, here’s why you should learn German anyway

For Jobs & Internships

Over 80% of jobs in Germany require German communication skills.
Employers often list “B1 required / B2 preferred” for roles in engineering and IT.
Knowing German widens your job search across multiple companies.

For Daily Life

Rental contracts, public transport, doctor visits, or banking — everything happens in German.
It’s not just about getting by — it’s about integrating smoothly.

For Scholarships & Visa Confidence

Applicants with German certification (A2 or above) show “integration intent,” improving visa success rates.
DAAD and other scholarships sometimes give preference to those with German knowledge.

💡 Check the program’s “Sprache” section on university websites — it specifies whether the course is taught in English or German.

Most Important : Recommended Learning Timeline for Indian Students

Timeline	German Goal	Purpose
3-4 months before intake	A1–A2	Early preparation, boosts admission profile
5- 6 months before intake	B1	Helps with visa, basic communication
During first year in Germany	B2	Essential for jobs & internships

Total time to reach B2: 8–10 months (if started early).

What If You Don’t Learn German?

You can still get admission, but you’ll face:

Difficulty finding part-time work.
Limited social life and networking opportunities.
Narrower job options after graduation.
Missed scholarships that require German interaction.

So while it’s not “officially mandatory” for all, it’s practically essential for success in Germany. In Germany, the language is not just a subject — it’s your strongest career skill.”

How to Start Learning German from India

Start early, so you reach your target level before you fly!

Abyaas German Pathway Plan

Level	Duration	Goal
A1	1.5 months	Basic communication & vocabulary
A2	2 months	Understand simple work/study contexts
B1	2.5 months	Independent conversation & visa readiness
B2	3 months	Academic & professional fluency

Abyaas offers both online and offline classes with live sessions, Self-paced mock tests, and Goethe exam preparation.

🎯 Join early to reach B1 before your admission timeline.

Conclusion – The Real Truth

You can study in Germany without German — but you’ll thrive only if you know it.

Germany’s education system welcomes international students, but its work and social life run in German.Learning the language doesn’t just make your life easier — it gives you an advantage in internships, part-time jobs, and post-study careers.

So don’t delay it — start your German learning journey today.