Language levels simply explained: What do A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 mean for German courses?
In order to make prior knowledge comparable when learning a language, language courses in Germany and around the world are generally given the levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 - including our German courses at the DeutschAkademie.
Language level A1 is aimed at beginners, C2 at participants who are almost native speakers. This level system corresponds to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). All our German courses are designed and aligned according to the CEFR.
Language level A:
Basic use of language
Language level B:
Independent use of language
Language level C:
Competent use of language
To make learning easier, the six CEFR levels from A1 to C2 are each divided into two modules: A1.1, A1.2, B1.1 and so on. This means you can complete each module in 48 lessons.
What is the aim of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)?
The European Framework of Reference for Languages provides an international standard for language skills. It describes the desired language skills of learners at the respective language levels A1 to C2 - in terms of listening, speaking, reading and writing. It is intended to make the language courses offered by different language schools and universities and, above all, the respective language examinations comparable.
Which language level is right for me?
You can find out quickly with our free online placement test. With this detailed placement test, which is also based on the 12-level CEFR model, we can determine your previous knowledge and find the right language level for you. Because it is important that you attend exactly the German course in which you can learn best.
Start right away, free of charge and without obligation, with our online placement test.
Looking for the right German course?
Use our interactive course finder
Language levels A1 to C2:
Vocabulary and grammar objectives and scope according to CEFR
Language level A1 | Beginners
Speak your first sentences in German
Little or no previous knowledge? The German A1 course is the right place for you if you are a beginner. Whether online or on site: Here you will learn the basics of the German language and prepare yourself for important everyday situations.
More about German course: Learn German A1 at the DeutschAkademie
Language level A2 | Basic knowledge
Deepen your first knowledge of German
Already have some solid previous knowledge? The German A2 course is the right place for you if you already speak a little German. Whether online or on site: Here you will consolidate the grammar from the A1 German course and learn new structures. Your vocabulary will also increase. You will learn to communicate with other people orally and in writing and become more confident in simple conversations.
More about German course: Learn German A2 at the DeutschAkademie
Language level B1 | Advanced
Complete the basics
Do you already have in-depth basic knowledge? The B1 German course is right for you if you have completed language level A2. Whether online or on site: Here you will learn how to use the German language independently and communicate at an intermediate level.
More about German course: Learn German B1 at the DeutschAkademie
Language level B2 | Independent language use
Deepen your knowledge - also for studies and work
Do you need German for your studies or job? Or would you like to register for the Telc B2 exam? The German B2 course is the right choice for you if you already have a really good command of the language and want to speak German at an advanced level. Whether online or on site: Here you will learn to converse spontaneously with native German speakers, to argue in discussions and to understand the basic idea of demanding texts.
More about German course: Learn German B2 at the DeutschAkademie
Language level C1 | Specialist language skills
Learn German at a competent language level
Do you already have advanced German language skills? Would you like to study or work in a German-speaking country? The C1 German course is the right course for you if you want to understand longer texts and grasp implicit meanings. Whether online or on site: Here you will learn to deal with complex texts and topics.
More about German course: Learn German C1 at the DeutschAkademie
Language level C2 | Almost native speaker
Reach the highest language level
Ready for native speaker level? C2 is the highest language level that can be achieved. The C2 German course is the right place for you if you want to fine-tune your German skills and learn to communicate on a par with native speakers. Whether online or on site: Here you will learn to communicate competently on a scientific basis and to understand and reflect on specialist literature.
More about German course: Learn German C2 at the DeutschAkademie
What should I look out for when deciding on a German course?
Different course formats: Intensive courses, semi-intensive courses, Saturday courses, company courses ...
Our German courses at the individual course levels are adapted to the different needs of our participants. You can choose from a wide range of German courses at almost every level from A1 to C2.
All are available as online courses, and most are also available in-house in your city:
- Intensive courses
- Semi-intensive courses
- Saturday courses
- Writing courses
- Grammar courses
- Exam preparation courses
- Phonetics courses
- Conversation courses
- Business German Courses
- Visa courses
- Company courses
- Individual lessons
Looking for the right German course?
Use our interactive course finder
Tip: Take breaks between higher levels
In most cases, learners can easily move from the initial A1 level to the basic A2 level. It will not always be quite so easy at the higher levels.
Experience has shown that it is advisable to take a short break between the B and C modules and levels in order to internalize and consolidate the newly learned content. For some, this is achieved through repetition in self-study, for others it is better to take additional conversation courses or grammar courses.
Why is it important to take a German course?
There are many good reasons to learn German. The most common ones include being able to communicate better in everyday life in German-speaking countries, improving career opportunities or preparing for a test at university.
