German language skills open up numerous opportunities – whether for studying at a prestigious university, securing a position at a leading company, or obtaining a residence permit in Germany and other countries. But how much time does one actually need to learn German? There is no universal answer, as every learner is unique. The outcome depends, among other things, on the chosen learning method, the intensity of instruction, and individual learning characteristics.
What influences the speed and success of learning German?
The time required to progress from one language level to the next depends on various factors:
- Individual prerequisites. Younger students and people with a strong talent for languages often make faster progress. At the same time, adults benefit from their life experience when it comes to learning vocabulary and understanding grammar.
- Teaching methods. Intensive courses, small-group lessons, and immersion in a German-speaking environment significantly accelerate the learning process.
- Language background. Those who already speak English, French, or other European languages usually learn German more quickly. Similarities in vocabulary and grammar make it possible to achieve a good command of the language within about a year.
- Learning goals. Strong motivation promotes independent study, helps overcome challenges, and keeps learners engaged in the process.
Ultimately, the decisive factor for success is the number and intensity of study hours. The following table provides an overview of the approximate weeks and hours needed to reach different proficiency levels:
Language Level |
Number of Training Weeks |
Number of Lessons per Week |
Minimum Number of Hours |
| А1 (Beginner) | 10 | 9 | 90 |
| А2 (Elementary) | 8 | 12,5 | 100 |
| В1 (Intermediate) | 9 | 20 | 180 |
| В2 (Upper-Intermediate) | 9 | 20 | 180 |
| С1 (Advanced) | 9 | 20 | 180 |
| С2 (Near-Native Proficiency) | Individual | Individual | Individual |
How much time is needed to reach level C1?
The C1 certificate confirms advanced language skills and is a prerequisite for admission to many universities as well as for jobs in major European or international companies. Learners who start from level A1 without any prior knowledge can usually reach C1 in about 1.5 to 2 years. However, it is important to note that everyone learns at a different pace. Those who want to progress quickly need an effective learning method, discipline, and persistence.
Independent learning outside the classroom can significantly speed up progress. It is recommended to:
- Learn something new every day and create a weekly study plan.
- Watch movies, read books, and listen to podcasts in German.
- Practice speaking and writing with native speakers.
- Work on practice exercises and take mock tests to prepare confidently for the exam.
How does IISC help with learning German quickly and effectively?
We offer both on-site and online German courses in small groups. At our institute, you can choose intensive courses from level B1 up to C1. In addition, we provide:
The courses include between 90 and 180 lessons. Participants learn the most important grammar rules, systematically expand their vocabulary, and practice both written and spoken expression. After each course, an exam is held to confirm the achieved level.