German Grammar A–Z
Look up German grammar topics A–Z, organized by category and level — with clear explanations and examples.
All grammar
Andere
German Proficiency Levels
A1
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, learning German is divided into levels
When doing something, we should usually set goals for ourselves in order to plan our studies effectively. Before learning German, you also need to set a goal for your German level. Do you want to conquer the hardest language in the world? Do you want to hold a German language certificate in your hands? Or do you need to master it for your work? Do you need German to study abroad, work as an Au pair or for family reunification? etc. To help students better understand the levels of the German language and the requirements once they have completed them, we at the Institute for Vocational Education Research (IVES) will give the most general information in the article below. According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, learning German is divided into the following levels: 1. Ability to use the language at the basic level A1 Can understand and use simple, everyday expressions and sentence patterns that serve the most essential communication needs. Can introduce themselves and ask others about personal matters, such as where they live, friends and belongings (learners can also answer such questions when needed). Can communicate at a simple level if the other person speaks slowly and is willing to help. With level A1, you can: – register as an Au pair in Germany div> – apply for a visa for family reunification A2 Can understand common sentences directly related to themselves or the interlocutor (for example: information about themselves, family, work, shopping…). Can understand simple, everyday contexts. Using simple sentence patterns, can describe their family circumstances and educational background. With level A2, you can: – prove that you have basic knowledge of German – prove that your learning results are equivalent to level A2 2. Ability to use the language independently B1 Can understand the main points if the other person speaks standard language and if the conversation concerns familiar contexts such as work, school, leisure… Can deal with most communication problems when traveling. Can express themselves simply and logically on everyday personal topics. Can already talk about experiences, events, dreams and hopes. Can give simple explanations of plans and intentions. With level B1, you can: – apply for a university preparatory course in Germany (depending on the school) – apply for permanent settlement or unlimited residence and apply for German citizenship – prove that your learning results are equivalent to level B1 B2 Can understand the main content of complex texts on a concrete or abstract topic; can also understand specialist discussions. Can converse comfortably and fluently; talking with native speakers is no longer difficult. Can express ideas on topics clearly and in detail; can present an issue and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the solutions offered. With level B2, you can: – apply for a university preparatory course in Germany – study at a university in the German-speaking countries (language level requirements may differ by school) – prove advanced German proficiency when applying for jobs – prepare for work in the healthcare sector in Germany – prove that your learning results are at level B2 3. Ability to use the language proficiently C1 Can understand long and demanding texts and summarize their main points. Can speak fluently without giving the impression of having to stop to search for words. Can use the language effectively and flexibly in social life, professional life and research. Can express complex relationships clearly and in detail. With level C1, you can: – study at university in Germany – prove that you have advanced-level German knowledge for work – work in the healthcare sector – prove that your learning results are equivalent to level C1 C2 Can easily understand everything heard and read. Can gather information from all sources (listening, reading) and report it concisely. Can express themselves comfortably, fluently and precisely; can make clear subtle and complex shades of meaning in different contexts. With level C2, you can: – study or do research at a university in Germany – teach at a school in Germany – prove that your learning results are equivalent to level C2