Levels

From A1 to C1, step by step

Our courses run continuously at levels A1, A2, B1, B1+, B2 and C1. Here you can see what you can do at each level.

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Common European Framework of Reference

Six levels in three bands

We keep strictly to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It describes what you can understand and say at each level. B1+ is an extra step of our intensive course, between B1 and B2.

On the intensive course, you have 20 lessons of 45 minutes a week, and a whole level takes 8 weeks. B1+ takes just as long. On the evening course, half a level takes about one trimester.

Basic user

A1 – A2

Independent user

B1 – B2

Proficient user

A1 – A2: Basic user
B1 – B2: Independent user
C1: Proficient user

A1Basic user

You understand familiar, everyday expressions and very simple sentences, and you can use them yourself to say what you need in daily life. You can introduce yourself and others and ask people questions about themselves, for example where they live, who they know or what they have. You can also answer questions like these yourself. You can communicate in a simple way if the person you are talking to speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help you.

Textbook: Netzwerk neu
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See courses for A1

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A2Basic user

You understand sentences and frequently used expressions on topics that concern you directly, for example you and your family, shopping, work or your local area. You can make yourself understood in simple, everyday situations, as long as the exchange is straightforward and about familiar things. In simple words, you can describe your background and education, your surroundings and the things you need at the moment.

Textbook: Netzwerk neu
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See courses for A2

B1Independent user

You understand the main points when clear standard German is used and the subject is familiar, such as work, school or free time. You can deal with most situations you are likely to come across when travelling in German-speaking countries. You can talk about familiar topics and your interests in simple, connected sentences. You can tell people about experiences and events, describe your dreams, hopes and goals, and briefly explain your plans and views or give reasons for them.

Textbook: Netzwerk neu
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See courses for B1

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B1+Independent user

An in-between step of the intensive course, between B1 and B2

You understand the most important information when clear standard German is spoken and the subject is familiar, such as work, school, free time or travel. You can talk in connected sentences about familiar topics and your interests, describe experiences, dreams, hopes and goals, and give explanations and reasons. But you’d still like to work on grammar and sentence structure, practise useful phrases, build your vocabulary and feel more confident. If so, B1+ is the right level for you. Here you build on the vocabulary, grammar and phrases from B1 and practise speaking and writing freely. This gives you a solid foundation for B2. From B1+ onwards, the course uses the Kontext textbook.

Textbook: Kontext
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See the intensive course

A young woman crouched at the start on a road

B2Independent user

You understand the main content of complex texts on concrete and abstract subjects, and in your own field you can follow specialist discussions too. You can communicate so spontaneously and fluently that an ordinary conversation with native speakers takes no great effort on either side. You can express yourself clearly and in detail on many different subjects, explain your point of view on a current issue and set out the pros and cons of different options.

Textbook: Kontext
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See courses for B2

Runners cheering as they break the finishing tape

C1Proficient user

You understand many demanding, longer texts and can also read between the lines. You express yourself spontaneously and fluently, and you rarely have to stop and search for words. You use the language effectively and flexibly in social and working life, in vocational training and at university. You express yourself on complex subjects clearly, in detail and in a well-structured way, linking your ideas with suitable language.

Textbook: Kontext
On the intensive course: 8 weeks

See courses for C1

Placement test

Not sure of your level yet?

We are happy to advise you. Our free online placement tests are a good first step. If you don’t speak any German yet, you don’t need a test and simply start with A1.

Go to the placement test Get advice