Photo by Quilia on Unsplash
What exactly is an Integrationskurs?
The Integrationskurs is the state-funded integration programme managed by the Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF). It combines language tuition with an orientation component. This is the primary route for non-EU citizens, recognised ethnic German immigrants (Spätaussiedler), and specific EU citizens who have never attended an integration course. The goal is to bring your German to level B1 and teach you about German law, history, and culture. If you are looking for free German language courses, this is the most comprehensive option available.
What level will you reach and how many hours does it take?
The standard Integrationskurs takes you from absolute beginner (A2) to an independent user (B1). It consists of 600 hours of language course (Sprachkurs) and 100 hours of orientation course (Orientierungskurs). The 600 hours are split into six modules (Module 1-6), each taking you up a sub-level (A1, A2, B1). If you already speak some German, you can enter at a higher module after taking a placement test (Einstufungstest). Completing the full 700 hours typically takes 8 to 12 months if you attend a full-time course (Intensivkurs), or up to 18 months part-time. German language learning
What is the Orientierungskurs?
The Orientierungskurs is the final 100 hours of the Integrationskurs. You cannot skip it. It covers German law, history, culture, and the education system. The goal is to teach you how to interact with German authorities and understand the democratic system. You must pass the orientation course to receive your Integrationskurs certificate. Without this certificate, you cannot prove you have completed the full integration programme, which matters for your residence permit and citizenship applications.
What is the DTZ exam?
The DTZ (Deutschtest für Zuwanderer) is the final exam of the Integrationskurs. It tests your German at level B1. The exam has two parts: a written test (reading, listening, writing) and an oral test. If you pass, you receive the DTZ certificate. This certificate proves your B1 level for citizenship applications, certain jobs, or further education. If you do not reach B1, you might receive a certificate at A2, but this does not carry the same weight for permanent residency or citizenship. The exam fee is usually covered if you hold a valid authorisation (Berechtigungsschein).
Who pays for it and how do you apply for a free course?
The BAMF covers the cost if you hold a Berechtigungsschein (authorisation to attend). To get this, you must apply at your local BAMF office or, in some cases, the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ authority). You fill out the Antrag auf Teilnahme am Integrationskurs (application to attend an integration course). If you receive social benefits (Bürgergeld) or face particular integration hurdles (e.g., you are a single parent or have a disability), you are entitled to a spot. EU citizens can apply, but they are lower priority and must pay a partial fee (roughly EUR 2.20 per hour) unless they receive welfare. If you do not qualify for BAMF funding, you pay the course provider directly. Expect to pay roughly EUR 2.20 to EUR 4.00 per 45-minute teaching unit, meaning a full course costs over EUR 1,500.
Where are VHS locations and are online courses available?
The Volkshochschule (VHS) is the primary provider of these courses, but private and church-run schools also offer them. You can find a VHS location in almost every German city and large town. Use the VHS website for your specific city to find course catalogues. Online free German language courses are rare for the full Integrationskurs because the BAMF requires in-person attendance for funding. However, the BAMF has piloted online formats, and standalone VHS courses often offer hybrid or fully online options. You must check the Kursdatenbank (course database) on the BAMF website to find approved online providers.
Edge cases for non-EU citizens, freelancers, and students
Non-EU citizens on a settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) or long-term EU residence permit can apply for a Berechtigungsschein, but they are not legally required to attend. Freelancers (Freiberufler) and self-employed people generally do not qualify for a free spot unless they receive state benefits. Students enrolled at a German university usually do not qualify for the BAMF-funded Integrationskurs; they should use their university’s language centre (Sprachzentrum), which often offers free or heavily subsidised courses. Asylum seekers and tolerated persons (Geduldete) can attend, but only after a specific waiting period (usually three months) and only if they are from safe countries under strict conditions.
Regional differences between Bundesländer
Wait times for a course spot vary drastically. In Berlin or Munich, you might wait three to six months for a spot. In rural areas of Saxony or Lower Saxony, you might start within four weeks. The cost for non-subsidised participants also varies by Bundesland and city. Berlin charges around EUR 2.20 per unit, while Munich might charge closer to EUR 4.00. Furthermore, some cities offer specialised courses (e.g., Integrationskurs für Frauen, Integrationskurs für Eltern) that are not available everywhere. Always check your local BAMF branch for specific regional offerings.
Comparison of course types
| Course Type | Cost | Duration | Target Audience | Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Integrationskurs | Free (with Berechtigungsschein) | 700 hours (600 language + 100 orientation) | Non-EU citizens, Spätaussiedler, some EU citizens | DTZ (B1) + Orientierungskurs certificate |
| Erweiterter Integrationskurs | Free (with Berechtigungsschein) | 900 hours (extra literacy/special needs modules) | Those needing extra time, parents, youth | DTZ (B1) + Orientierungskurs certificate |
| Standalone VHS Sprachkurs | EUR 2.20 – 4.00 per unit | Varies (typically 100-200 hours) | Anyone, including EU citizens and freelancers | VHS certificate (no DTZ) |
| Private Intensive Course | EUR 5.00 – 15.00 per unit | Varies | Those who need a spot immediately | Varies (often telc or Goethe) |
Step-by-step: How to secure your spot
- Check your eligibility: Visit the Make it in Germany portal to see if you qualify for a funded spot.
- Apply for the Berechtigungsschein: Submit the Antrag auf Teilnahme am Integrationskurs to your local BAMF office. Include your passport, residence permit, and Anmeldebestätigung (address registration).
- Find a provider: Use the BAMF Kursdatenbank to find a VHS or private school near you that offers the Integrationskurs.
- Take the placement test: The provider will assess your current level to place you in the correct module.
- Attend and complete: You must attend at least 80% of the course to receive your Teilnahmeschein (certificate of participation).
- Sit the DTZ: Register for the exam at the end of the course.
What happens if you get it wrong?
If you are legally required to attend (e.g., you have an integration obligation under your residence permit) and you skip the course without a valid reason, the Ausländerbehörde can deny the extension of your permit. You can also face a fine. If you simply stop attending, the BAMF will revoke your authorisation, and you will not get a second chance at a free spot easily. If you fail the DTZ, you can retake it, but you must pay for the repeat exam yourself (roughly EUR 100-150). If you miss the deadline to apply for your Berechtigungsschein after arriving in Germany, you might lose your entitlement entirely. Residence Permits
Frequently asked questions
What is an Integrationskurs?
An Integrationskurs is a state-funded course combining 600 hours of German language tuition with 100 hours of orientation on German law and culture. It is managed by the BAMF and ends with the DTZ exam at level B1.
Who pays for free German language courses?
The BAMF pays for the course if you hold a Berechtigungsschein. You qualify for this if you are a non-EU citizen, a Spätaussiedler, or if you receive social benefits. EU citizens usually pay a partial fee of EUR 2.20 per hour.
What is the DTZ exam?
The DTZ (Deutschtest für Zuwanderer) is the final exam of the Integrationskurs. It tests your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills at level B1. Passing this exam gives you a certificate often required for permanent residency and citizenship.
Are online courses available?
Fully online Integrationskurs options are rare because the BAMF generally requires in-person attendance for funding. However, some providers offer hybrid formats, and standalone VHS language courses frequently have online options.
What level can I reach?
The standard Integrationskurs takes you to level B1. If you need more time or have specific learning needs, the Erweiterter Integrationskurs offers extra modules, but the target level remains B1.
Rules and fees change; confirm with the responsible office before you act.
