Language Courses

The University of Mannheim helps international students to strengthen their German language skills by providing a number of language courses at different levels.

German for International Students

International degree-seeking students must prove they have a very good level of German language proficiency. If you want to improve your German, the following courses are available:

  • German as a Foreign Language (DaF)

    The Service and Marketing GmbH organizes German language courses for international students which take place before and during the semester. 

    Intensive Courses
    International prospective students must pass either the DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer Studienbewerber), or the Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test DaF) language exams to be able to study in Germany. If they speak little or no German, they can attend intensive language courses to prepare.

    Custom Programs
    The university offers language courses up to C1 level that are tailored to the specific needs of individuals or groups. Participants can also choose to concentrate on topics such as economics or politics.

    International Summer and Winter Academies
    Before the semester begins, the German as a Foreign Language team organizes intensive language courses as part of the International Winter Academy and the International Summer Academy. Students can attend a variety of seminars. The program also includes excursions, a pub crawl, and other sports activities. If you’re interested, you can contact the German as a Foreign Language team directly.

    Exchange students can register for the program organized by the International Office  using the myUniMa portal.

  • German Language and Culture Courses during the Semester

    Exchange students can attend courses on the German language, regions and culture alongside their studies. The program includes courses that focus on German art history and the European Union, for example. Language courses are available at different levels (A1–C1). Courses on culture are taught in English.

    Exchange students can register for these courses using the myUniMa portal until the end of January for the spring semester, or the end of August for the fall semester.

    Registration costs €15 per course.

Drei Studierende um eine Weltkugel. Eine Studentin zeigt auf einen Punkt der Weltkugel.
Other Languages

Every semester, the Studium Generale offers courses in over 15 languages. You can learn, for example, Swedish, Chinese, or Spanish. The varied program also makes learning a new language attractive for German native speakers.

Tandem Conversation Partners

Language classes aren’t the only way to learn a foreign language; you also pick words up during everyday activities. The International Office can help you find a tandem conversation partner who speaks German.