Learning German in Bonn: These are the options
Learning German is one of the most important things to do as part of your assignment abroad to fully integrated. Even if you do not need to have German language skills for your new job, it will make things much easier in both your professional and private life. At the same time, you show your employer your great commitment and willingness to the new job and life in Germany. With its international orientation, the federal city of Bonn provides Expats and their accompanying relatives with numerous opportunities to learn German. We have summarized them for you.
Is German language knowledge mandatory?
In times of globalization and increasing international networking, knowledge of German is no longer required in all professions in order to be allowed to work as a foreigner in the Federal Republic. In a professional context, it is entirely sufficient to speak English as an international language. Nevertheless, it´s different in everyday life. Whether in the supermarket, at the doctor’s or in kindergarten – the staff often doesn’t speak English. For this reason, it is advisable to acquire at least basic language skills if you want to live and work in Germany for a longer period.
In nursing and health professions, knowledge of German language is even one of the required qualifications. In order to work as a doctor or nurse in Germany, you must have proof of language proficiency from a recognized language course provider.
Knowledge of German language is also very important for accompanying spouses. For example, they sometimes need to have a basic knowledge of the German language before applying for a visa in order to be able to live in Germany permanently. Only if you come from the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein or Iceland or your partner holds an EU Blue Card, you do not need to be able to speak German to apply for your visa.
Language courses
Whether in your home country or directly in Bonn: language courses are an effective way to acquire German language skills. In the courses you will not only learn to speak, write and understand the language of your host country, you will also learn a lot of exciting and interesting facts about the country and its people. The range of language courses in Bonn is wide and is designed for German learners of all language levels. The programs of the language course providers are based on the requirements of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This defines the following levels of language proficiency:
- A1 and A2: basic knowledge
- B1 and B2: Language skills at an advanced level, which enable independent and differentiated communication in everyday life and at work
- C1 and C2: Competent use of the language with expert to almost native language skills
In addition to classic integration courses, there is also the possibility to take part in orientation courses or offers for vocational language support. The language courses have different durations and can be attended once or even several times a week depending on the offer. In addition to intensive courses up to 20 hours per week, it is also possible to take part-time evening courses. In this way, learning German can be perfectly combined with a job. Most language courses end with a final exam, which you must pass in order to be recognized for a certain language level and to attend a higher language course.
Language course providers in Bonn
There are countless providers of German language courses in Bonn, above all of course the Goethe Institute, which provides courses with well-founded knowledge of German at 157 locations in Germany and abroad, including Bonn. Offers can also be found at the adult education centers (Volkshochschule), which are available in many German cities.
If you are looking for job-related German courses, you can contact the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs directly. On the website of the BMAS you will find detailed information on professional language courses in Germany that are offered nationwide.
There are a number of other private and public providers of German courses. You can find an overview in the database of the Association for German as a Foreign Language or simply ask us and we´ll give you an overview of all the language schools in Bonn.
Other language learning opportunities
Of course, you don’t necessarily have to take a German course to acquire elementary language skills. It often helps to consciously confront the German language in as many different situations as possible, e.g. reading books and magazines, watching TV and listening to the radio. The HereLocation Blog, which is available in both German and English, not only provides you with exciting information about relocation but can also help you learn German.
Don’t be afraid to speak to native speakers when shopping or doing leisure activities. Actively seek contact with neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances to improve your knowledge of German. A language tandem can also help to find communication partners to exchange ideas and to further develop language skills.
Learning German in Bonn for children and teenagers
Children often find it much easier to learn the language of their host country. When dealing with their peers, they learn to understand and use the new language in a playful way. Nevertheless, it is extremely helpful for children to promote language learning by attending a language course. Special offers also exist here. It is best to ask directly at your child’s school what options are available.
We are happy to assist you in finding suitable language courses for yourself and your family members. Contact us at any time if you have any questions or are interested in our services. We look forward to you!