Introduction
Learning a new language is an adventure, but it can also be expensive. If you are interested in learning German, one of the most popular languages in Europe, you may be wondering about German language school costs and average expenses. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with German language schools in Germany, as well as those outside of Germany, and look at the average expenses you can expect to pay to learn German.
German Language School Costs in Germany
The cost of attending a German language school in Germany can vary depending on the region of the country and the type of school you choose. Here we will break down some of the costs you can expect to pay when studying German in Germany:
Tuition fees: German language courses in Germany are divided into two categories according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). At the beginner to intermediate level (A1 to B1), tuition fees range from €500 to €1,300 per week. At the advanced level (B2 to C1), tuition fees start from about €1,300 per week.
Accommodation: Accommodation costs in Germany depend on the city or region you are studying in. A room in a student hall of residence can cost around €350 to €500 per month, while renting a private flat can cost around €700 to €1,200 per month.
Living expenses: Living costs in Germany can be high. You can expect to pay around €800 to €1,000 per month for food, transport, healthcare, and other living expenses.
German Language School Costs Outside Germany
If you cannot go to Germany to learn German, there are many German language schools in other countries that offer comprehensive language courses. Here are some of the costs you can expect to pay:
Tuition fees: The tuition fees for German language courses outside Germany are generally lower than those in Germany. They range from €300 to €500 per week for beginner to intermediate level courses, and about €500 to €700 per week for advanced level courses.
Accommodation: Accommodation costs depend on the city or region of the school you choose. In general, accommodation costs are in line with the general living costs of the place where the school is located. You can expect to pay between €300 to €1,000 per month for accommodation, depending on your choice.
Living expenses: Living expenses outside Germany can vary depending on the country and city you are in. You can expect to pay around €600 to €1,000 per month for food, transport, healthcare, and other living expenses.
Average Expenses for Learning German
Learning German can be quite costly, as we have discussed so far. Here are some average expenses you can expect to pay when learning German:
Language courses: Language courses in Germany can cost anywhere from €500 to €1,300 per week, while courses outside Germany cost around €300 to €500 per week.
Accommodation: Accommodation costs depend on where you choose to study. In Germany, you can expect to pay between €350 to €1,200 per month for accommodation, while accommodation costs outside Germany range from €300 to €1,000 per month.
Living expenses: Living expenses are the same whether you are studying in Germany or outside Germany. You can expect to pay around €800 to €1,000 per month for food, transport, healthcare, and other living expenses.
FAQs about German Language School Costs and Average Expenses
Q. How do I find a German language school?
A. You can search for German language schools online or through a language education agency. You can also check with your local Goethe Institute or German embassy for recommendations.
Q. How long does it take to learn German?
A. It depends on your starting level and your dedication to learning. It can take six months to a year of intensive learning to reach a B1 or B2 level of proficiency.
Q. Can I get financial aid to study German in Germany?
A. Yes, there are many scholarships and grants available to study German in Germany. You can check with the German Federal Foreign Office or the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) for more information.
Q. Is it cheaper to study German outside of Germany?
A. Tuition fees for German language schools outside of Germany are generally cheaper than in Germany. However, you will still need to pay for accommodation and living expenses, which can vary depending on the country you choose.
Q. Can I learn German online for free?
A. Yes, there are many online resources available to learn German for free. However, if you want to achieve a higher level of proficiency, you may need to consider paid courses or in-person classes.
Conclusion
Learning German can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be costly. The cost of attending a German language school in Germany or outside Germany depends on many factors, including the type of school, the location, and the level of proficiency you want to achieve. As with any investment, it is important to do your research, set a budget, and consider all of your options before choosing a German language course. With dedication and the right resources, you can achieve your language goals and open up new opportunities for yourself.