Learning German
Employer-Provided Language Courses
One great thing about working for a Berlin University Alliance institutions is that you do not need to look far for language learning opportunities. A great place to start is with the offerings of your host institution, which often offers a range of free or low-cost German courses tailored to international researchers, staff and their families.Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your conversational or professional German, you'll find accessible options to help you integrate more easily into every day and academic life in Berlin:
- Freie Universität: German as a Foreign Language
- Humboldt-Universität: Language Centre
- Technische Universität: German as a Foreign Language
- Charité-affiliated researchers should consult HU or FU web pages
Private German Courses
In addition to the language courses offered by universities, there are many private providers that offer professional German language instruction, both in-person and online. Well-known institutions like the Goethe-Institut, Berlitz, and the did deutsch-institut offer structured programs for all levels, from beginner to advanced, often with options tailored for academic or professional use. These schools also offer remote learning opportunities, which can be especially useful if you're planning your move in advance or prefer a flexible schedule. Pricing and course schedules can vary widely, so it's best to check directly on the providers’ websites to find the format and level that suit your needs.