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German language skills

Whilst the University of Passau is offering an increasing number of English-taught courses, certificate programmes and even whole degree programmes in English, the language of instruction for the majority of our study options remains German.

German language skills required for admission to university

Each degree programme has different German language requirements. If you are an applicant, please check which recognised German language certificate you will be asked to provide together with your application.

Learning German in Passau

The Language Centre offers enrolled international students German language courses during the semester.

In addition, German Courses Passau provides intensive language programmes to give you in-depth, first-hand knowledge of German language and culture before you start on your degree programme:

  • The Academic German Year is intended for students who come to Germany with little or no pre-existing knowledge of German
  • The Academic German Semester is for students with existing German language skills who wish to raise their level of language proficiency to meet the language requirements for admission to a degree course at a German university.
  • Both the above courses prepare you for sitting the Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDaF), an international, centralised and standardised language test for German as a foreign language. More information about the digital TestDaF certificate.

ERASMUS+ and exchange students

Students coming to the University of Passau through Erasmus+, any other study exchange or as freemovers should have at least some basic German language skills to get by.

An increasing number of classes at the University are taught in English. However, the main language of instruction is German, which makes German language skills essential to passing most modules. If you are aiming to enrol only on modules taught in English, please contact Stefanie Dallmeier beforehand.

During the orientation weeks for international students, all international students can take free German language classes.

AEGEE Passau's Intercambio project

Project "Intercambio" helps connect German and international students with each other so they can practice language skills together.

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