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South Africans in Germany

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Learning German

There are several approaches to learn German, all of which can help you achieve your language learning goals. You can opt for convenient online sites that offer a range of language courses or download mobile apps that make learning on-the-go a breeze. Alternatively, you can choose to attend classes where you’ll benefit from practical and interactive lessons that help you build your language skills.
It’s worth noting that Germany uses the European Language Framework, which helps learners to gauge their proficiency levels, identify areas of improvement and work towards achieving internationally recognized language certifications. 

European Language Framework

Online resources

Online German courses are becoming increasingly popular among students and professionals who wish to improve their language skills.
If you are considering taking a German course online, you may be pleased to know that there are several institutions that offer high-quality language instruction. These courses typically cover a range of language competencies, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. 

Study in South Africa

The following institutions offers traditional classroom courses which provides face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers. You will have the opportunity to learn German in a supportive and structured environment, with experienced instructors who will guide you through every step of the process. 

Study in Germany

The best way to learn any language is by attending classes and practicing it in a real-life setting. Not only do these classes enhance your language skills, but they also expose you to German culture and open doors to new friendships and experiences. 

Integration course

If you received your residence permit after 1 January 2005 and are unable to make yourself understood at a basic or adequate level in German, you must participate in an integration course. The immigration office will determine your obligation to participate when your residence permit is issued.

If you receive the citizens’ benefit and the office from which you receive the citizens’ benefit requires you to participate, you must also participate in an integration course.

If you are receiving the citizens’ benefit, unemployment benefits or benefits to cover the cost of living, you will be exempted from the contribution to costs on application. You can also be exempted from the contribution to costs if paying the contribution to costs is particularly difficult for you due to your financial or personal situation.

If you complete the final test at the end of the integration course within two years, or three years for integration courses for special target groups, after issue of the Eligibility Certificate (Teilnahmeberechtigung), you may, under certain conditions, be reimbursed half of your contribution to costs. You need to complete an application for this, sign it and send it to the competent branch office. More information can be found on the BAMF website or the BAMF NAvI website

Exam preperation

The first hurdle is to pass the A1 and A2 exams. The following websites offer mock exams to help you prepare for the exams..

  • Goethe practice materials
  • DW Placement Tests
  • My German Teacher is a Youtube channel, they offer tips on how to pass the A1 exams
  • Listed tutors

    If you are looking for one-on-one German classes, we have German tutors listed on our website  

    Karin Gärtner – German Tutor

    Before lockdown I taught German in the evenings as part of classes the Deutsche Schule Durban offered to adults and children. During lockdown things went

    Beyond the Class-room

    As an English teacher i am always looking at fun ways to interact with my students, especially during the stay at home times we have

    Linguistika

    A Multifaceted Language Service founded by Stephanie Schaffrath TAILORED ONLINE LANGUAGE TUITION: With over 12 years of experience teaching languages, Linguistika is committed to providing

    Apps

    Learning a new language can be a daunting task, but thanks to modern technology, we now have access to iteractive language learning apps that makes learning fun.

    AppLevelOperating SystemLink
    Adventure GermanB1Android and Applehttps://www.goethe.de/ins/za/en/spr/ueb/mis.html
    AnkiAndroid and Applehttps://www.ankiapp.com/
    BabbelAndroid and Applehttps://www.babbel.com/course-description/learn-german-online
    BusuuAndroid and Applehttps://www.busuu.com/
    City of WordsA1Android and Applehttps://www.goethe.de/en/spr/ueb/led.html
    Das Geheimnis der HimmelsscheibeA2Android and Applehttps://www.goethe.de/ins/za/en/spr/ueb/him.html
    DuolingoAndroid and Apple“>
    FluentuAndroid and Applehttps://www.fluentu.com/
    iStart GermanApplehttp://www.miraigerman.com/
    Learn German DeutschAkademieA1, A2, B1, B2 or C1Android and Applehttps://www.deutschakademie.de/online-deutschkurs/english/learn-german-for-android
    Rosetta StoneAndroid and Applehttps://www.rosettastone.de/
    VHSA1, A2, B1, B2Android and Apple“>
    Tandem

    Podcasts and videos

    Another fun way to learn german is by listening to podcasts or watching videos.

    Related content

    Verbs

    Verbs are actions or a state of being. An example of an Action is, I eat. An example of a state is, I am hungry

    German Grammar and Language

    Here are some links to German Grammar information.It is a compilation of information I gathered over time. I hope you find it useful. Please notify