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How to study German in Berlin? Prices & scholarship options
Willkommen! This is the most comprehensive guide to study German in Berlin: courses, schools, visas, and scholarships.
Why study German in Berlin? Because it’s the best way to truly learn the language while fully immersing yourself in the history and culture of one of Germany’s most popular destinations.
In this article, you’ll learn about the costs of studying German in the city, the types of scholarships available for international students, housing options, and the top language schools.
We’ll also share some tips to help you make the most of your language experience in Germany’s capital. Whether you want to learn German for studies, work, or simply for fun, this guide has you covered. Willkommen in Berlin!
How much does it cost to study German in Berlin?
You can study German in Berlin no matter your budget. While the cost of living in Germany is generally average for Europe, prices in the capital tend to be higher. Fortunately, there are study programs of varying lengths and costs to suit different needs.
| Concept | Price |
| Intensive course 20 hours/week | From $180 per week |
| Private lessons | $30 – $60 per hour |
| Homestay accommodation | $300 per week |
| Residence accommodation | From $532 per week |
| Food | $250 – $300 per month |
| Leisure | $150 per month |
In addition to the main expenses we covered in the table, it’s important for any international student to have a reliable internet connection.
With a monthly Holafly plan, you can enjoy 5G coverage throughout Germany, choose between 25 GB or unlimited data, and connect two devices at once. For shorter stays, the Holafly eSIM for Berlin gives you unlimited data for a few days, making it a convenient option.
Where to find scholarships to study German in Berlin
The best way to avoid a big financial burden while studying German in Berlin is to apply for one of the scholarships the German government offers to help international students live and study in the country. These programs are designed to encourage and promote the learning of the German language. Here are some of the options available:
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): This German institution provides both partial and full scholarships for German language courses at accredited schools. The award typically covers a course of up to eight weeks, accommodation, health insurance, and airfare.
- Goethe-Institut: This Berlin based institute offers scholarships for intensive German programs. The support covers the cost of the course and study materials, with a total value of up to $1,970.
- Erasmus+ (for European students): This is one of the most popular scholarships among international students and applies to short term courses, offering up to $86 per day. It also covers the cost of tuition.
Best schools to study German in Berlin
The first step to studying German in Berlin is choosing the school that best fits your needs. Some schools provide accommodation in the city, others focus on adult learners, and many offer courses of varying lengths that can be combined with other activities.
1. GLS German Language School – with accommodation
Located in the Prenzlauer Berg district, this school sits on a green campus that includes two boutique hotels and a café. It has been recognized as a “Star School Germany” for five years in a row by Study Travel Magazine.
- Courses: Intensive, super-intensive, business, and exam preparation courses such as TestDaF.
- Accommodation: The campus has 50 apartments set in a landscaped area behind the school. The school also provides private apartments and options to stay with German host families.
- Prices: Courses start at $191 per week, with on campus housing from $532 per week. Private apartments in Berlin cost around $912 per week, while staying with a host family is about $300 per week.
2. DID Deutsch-Institut – for adults
If you’re looking for a school that focuses on teaching German to adults, this one is a great choice. Located in central Berlin near Alexanderplatz with easy access to public transport, it has over 50 years of experience teaching international students aged 18 to 35. Here are the courses they offer:
- Courses: Intensive courses for adults aged 18 and up, preparation for official exams such as TestDaF, telc, and Goethe, group classes, private lessons, and combined programs. Levels range from A1 to C1.
- Prices: 20 lessons per week from $180 and 28 lessons from $263 per week.
3. Speakeasy Berlin – without accommodation
Already sorted your accommodation? Then it’s time to focus on finding a school that focuses solely on German. Speakeasy has two locations in Berlin, one in the east and one in the west, so you can pick the one closest to where you’re staying. The school uses a conversation based approach, and also organizes free seminars, workshops, events, and even has its own bookstore.
- Courses: Levels from A1 to C1, intensive courses, and exam preparation.
- Prices: From $170 for a 20-hour-per-week course or $240 for 28 hours.
How to study German in Berlin and work at the same time
Another way to make your dream of studying German in Berlin more affordable is by working while you study. To do this legally, you’ll need the right visa, which allows you to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
To qualify for this visa, you need to be enrolled in a recognized language course or an official institution. Common jobs for international students include working as a waiter, delivery driver, retail assistant, or helping out in shops and supermarkets.
Best seasons to study German in Berlin
The way you experience Berlin can vary depending on the season you choose to study German. We recommend going during milder weather, like in spring or summer, so you can take part in more outdoor activities, festivals, and concerts. Here’s a quick overview of what each season offers:
- Spring (March to May): Good weather, not too hot, and high availability of accommodation and courses.
- Summer (June to August): Good weather, outdoor activities, intensive courses available, but higher demand for accommodation.
- Fall (September to November): Pleasant temperatures, start of academic programs, fewer tourists, and quieter atmosphere.
- Winter (December to February): Christmas atmosphere, discounts on courses or accommodation, fewer students.
Popular agencies for studying German in Berlin
If, after reading this article, you’re certain you want to study German in Berlin but still feel unsure about where to start with the paperwork, a specialized agency can handle everything for you. Here are two of the leading agencies operating in the country.
Sprachcaffe Languages Plus
This international education agency helps young people and adults who want to combine travel with learning German. They also have their own network of schools and provide the following services:
- Help with migration requirements and visa applications.
- Assistance in obtaining a scholarship.
- Search for accommodation in shared apartments or residences.
- Intensive, general, and exam preparation courses.
EF Education First
It’s a globally recognized education agency that has been supporting international students since 1965, helping them study German across Germany. Here’s what they provide:
- German courses tailored to different age groups.
- Advice on applying for a student visa.
- Help finding accommodation with host families or in residences.
- Extracurricular activities and excursions.
Frequently asked questions about studying German in Berlin
Yes, some schools provide accommodation, but it’s always optional. You can simply enroll in the course if you already have a place to stay.
If your course lasts longer than 90 days, you’ll need a student visa, which also allows you to work part time for up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
Intensive 20-hour courses cost an average of $180 per week, and general courses tend to cost a little less.
Some of the best neighborhoods for students are Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain, and Neukölln. These areas are safe, well connected by public transport, and close to essential services.
It depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for peace and focus, winter or autumn is ideal. On the other hand, if you want to combine studying with leisure, spring or summer is a better choice.
It’s not required, but learning a few basic phrases can make studying and adjusting to life in the city much easier. Most schools offer beginner A1 courses for students with no prior knowledge of German.
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