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, please register for the event through the website Summer and Winter Academies.

    Further information:

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.