Levels of German language training

Normally when doing something, we should set goals for ourselves in order to plan our learning effectively; before learning German, you also need to set goals regarding your level of German.

Do you want to conquer the world's hardest language?

Do you want to hold a German language certificate in your hands?

Or do you need to master it for work purposes?

Do you need German for studying abroad, working as an Aupair, or for family reunification?

Etc.

With the aim of helping students better understand the different levels of the German language and what is required upon completing each level, the Institute for Vocational Education Research (IVES) will provide the most general information in the article below.

According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, learning German is divided into the following levels:

1. Ability to use the language at a basic level

A1

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases to meet the most essential communication needs. Can introduce themselves and ask others about personal details, such as where they live, people they know, and things they have (learners can also answer such questions when needed). Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and is willing to help.

At the A1 level, you can:

– register to work as a childminder (Aupair) in Germany

– apply for a visa for family reunification

A2

Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related directly to oneself or the person being spoken to (e.g. information about oneself, family, work, shopping, etc.). Can understand simple, everyday contexts. Using basic sentence patterns, can describe one's own background and educational history.

At the A2 level, you can:

– demonstrate that you already have basic knowledge of German– demonstrate that your learning achievements are equivalent to the A2 level

2. Able to use the language actively

B1

Can understand the main points if the interlocutor speaks clearly and if the topic relates to familiar contexts such as work, school, leisure, etc. Can manage most communication problems encountered while travelling. Can express themselves simply and coherently on everyday personal topics. Can already recount experiences, events, dreams and hopes. Can give simple explanations of plans and intentions.

At the B1 level, you can:

– apply for a preparatory college course in Germany (depending on the institution)

– apply for permanent residency or settlement and apply for German citizenship

– demonstrate that your learning achievements are equivalent to the B1 level

B2

Can understand the main content of texts dealing with both concrete and abstract topics on a specific subject; can also understand discussions in a specialist field. Can communicate comfortably and fluently — talking with native speakers is no longer a challenge. Can express ideas on topics clearly and in detail; can present an issue and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed solutions.

At the B2 level, you can:

– apply for a preparatory college course in Germany

– study at a university in the German-speaking region (language proficiency requirements may vary by institution)

– demonstrate advanced German proficiency when applying for jobs

– prepare for work in the healthcare sector in Germany

– demonstrate your learning achievements at the B2 level

3. Able to use the language creatively

C1Can understand long and difficult texts, and summarize the main points. Can speak fluently without giving the impression of having to stop and search for words. Can use language effectively and flexibly in social, professional and academic life. Can express complex relationships clearly and in detail.

With a C1 level, you can:

– study at university in Germany

– prove that you have advanced German language knowledge for work

– work in the healthcare sector

– prove that your learning outcomes are equivalent to C1 level

C2

Can understand everything heard and read with ease. Can gather information from any source (listening, reading) and summarize it concisely. Can express themselves spontaneously, fluently and precisely; able to convey subtle and complex nuances of meaning in different contexts.

With a C2 level, you can:

– study at university or do research in Germany

– teach at a school in Germany

– prove that your learning outcomes are equivalent to C2 level