International students can study at many public universities in Germany without paying tuition fees. To be admitted to a German-taught degree programme, applicants must provide proof of their language proficiency. Most universities require German at B2 or C1 level. While some students need to complete the entire journey from A1 to C1, others only need to take B2 or C1 courses — or simply obtain the required language certificate.
In any case, it is worth starting your preparation early. This guide will help you choose the right German course, plan a realistic timeline for your language exam, and work towards your goal without unnecessary pressure or rushing.
Starting Your Studies from Scratch: German Courses at IISC
The International Institute for Studies and Cooperation offers intensive German courses from A1 to C1. On-site classes take place in Braunschweig, while live online courses allow you to start preparing from your home country.
The full programmes include 20 lessons per week and are taught in small groups of 8 to 14 participants.
Prospective students planning to move to Germany receive much more than just language preparation at IISC. Our specialists provide support with the visa application process, and international applicants can also be offered accommodation in the institute’s own residence, if required.
In addition, you can always rely on free advice on migration-related matters, choosing a university, preparing your documents, and applying to your chosen university.
The duration of German courses at IISC depends on the language level and course format.
| Level | Lessons (On-site) | Course Duration in Weeks (On-site) | Lessons (Online) | Course Duration in Weeks (Online) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| А1 | 150 | 7,5 | 150 | 7,5 |
| A2 | 150 | 7,5 | 150 | 7,5 |
| B1 | 180 | 9 | 180 | 9 |
| B2 | 180 | 9 | 180 | 9 |
| C1 | 180 | 9 | 180 | 9 |
To complete the full German course programme, you will therefore need approximately 9.5 to 10 months — essentially a full academic year. Online classes take place on weekdays, mostly in the morning from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and less frequently from 2:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
The intensive format involves a significant workload. In addition to classes (4 to 5 days a week), you should set aside enough time for self-study, reviewing the material, and completing assignments. For this reason, intensive German learning can be difficult to combine with school. To progress from A1 to C1 within the planned timeframe, you should make learning German your main priority during this period.
In addition to the full intensive programmes, IISC also offers the option of taking only the second part of a level. The A1.2 and A2.2 courses last four weeks, while the B1.2, B2.2, and C1.2 modules last five weeks. This option is suitable for anyone who has already studied German and completed the first part of the respective level. To avoid repeating material you already know, we recommend taking a placement test before registering. Based on the results, you can then choose either the full course or go directly to the second module of the programme.
German Courses for Prospective Students at B1 to C1 Level
If you already have basic German skills, you can start directly at the appropriate level. If your German is already at B1 level, you will need to complete the full B2 and C1 courses to reach C1. You should plan for a little more than four months for this. If you are already at B2 level, the C1 course is sufficient and takes approximately two months.
If you have studied German before and simply want to refresh your knowledge or complete a particular level, you can choose the shortened five-week B2.2 and C1.2 courses.
The telc German Language Exam at IISC
At IISC, you can take the telc B2 or telc C1 Hochschule exam directly after completing the corresponding course. The institute is a licensed examination centre, so you do not need to look for a separate examination location.
Exam dates are arranged flexibly around the language course schedule. Students who are already enrolled in a course at IISC are guaranteed an examination place. Registration must be completed at least 14 days before the chosen exam date. Results are usually issued 4 to 6 weeks after the examination. You should take this timeframe into account when planning your university application, particularly when submitting your documents.
Prospective students who already have German at C1 level can choose the specialised preparation course for the telc C1 Hochschule exam. Over the course of two weeks, participants work on reading and listening comprehension exercises and practise their writing skills. The course is offered online or on-site in small groups of up to 11 participants.
You can find the current course dates as well as the examination dates for telc B2 and telc C1 Hochschule on the IISC website. You can also take the online placement test there to determine your German level. If you still have any questions, our specialists will be happy to advise you and help you find the right preparation programme.