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Your Gateway to Germany? Is Learning German.

🗓️ 27 Feb 2026

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Germany is the world’s fourth-largest economy and home to 400+ internationally ranked universities — many offering tuition-free education at public institutions. It’s no surprise that students from the UAE, India, Pakistan, Egypt, and beyond dream of building their future there.

But here’s the truth: your German language skills can make or break your application. Whether for a student visa, university admission, or post-study work, learning German isn’t optional — it’s your smartest investment. This guide explains the required levels and how you can achieve them from Dubai.

Why Germany Has Become a Dream Destination for International Students

Germany offers world-class education without the high price tag. Most public universities charge little to no tuition fees — even for international students — while providing globally respected degrees and strong post-study work opportunities in one of Europe’s strongest job markets.

With over 400,000 international students enrolled in 2023, Germany remains a top study destination. Leading institutions such as Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and RWTH Aachen University reflect its academic excellence.

For students in the UAE, Germany offers high-quality education at a fraction of UK or US costs — plus a potential pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.

How Learning German Opens Doors to Jobs in Germany

Germany faces a growing skilled labour shortage, with over 600,000 vacancies in 2023 — projected to reach 7 million workers by 2035, according to the Federal Employment Agency.

For international professionals, this is a real opportunity — but German language skills are the key advantage.

Employers prefer bilingual candidates, most workplaces operate in German, and sectors like healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and finance often require B2 or C1 level. German is also essential for residence permits, integration courses under Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, visa renewals, and faster access to permanent residency and citizenship.

Do I Need to Know German to Study in Germany?

Germany’s higher education system offers programmes in both German and English. However, the majority of bachelor’s degree programmes — especially in STEM, law, medicine, and humanities — are taught entirely in German. Even for English-taught master’s programmes, your long-term success, daily life, and post-graduation employment prospects will be significantly stronger with German language skills.

The German student visa itself requires proof of admission to a German university. And for German-taught programmes, that admission is conditional on presenting a recognised German language certificate. In other words: no German certificate, no offer letter; no offer letter, no visa.

What Level of German Do You Actually Need?

German language proficiency is measured according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). Here’s how it maps to study in Germany:

CEFR Level Description Typical Use Case
A1 – A2 Beginner Preparatory language courses only
B1 – B2 Intermediate Some vocational / preparatory programmes
C1 Advanced Most German-taught bachelor's & master's degrees
C2 Near-native Medicine, law, highly competitive programmes

The most commonly required certification is the TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) or the DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang). Alternatively, the Goethe-Institut’s C1 certificate is widely accepted. Some universities also accept the telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule exam.

It’s worth noting that even if you’re applying to an English-taught programme, many universities in Germany require at least a basic level of German (A2 or B1) as part of admission criteria.

Recognised German Language Tests — Which One Is Right for You?

Not all German language certificates are equally recognised by universities or visa authorities. The most widely accepted exams include:

  • TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): Accepted by almost all German universities (TDN 3–5 scores).

  • DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): Conducted by German universities, usually after conditional admission.

  • Goethe-Institut Certificates: Globally recognised, especially the C1 level.

  • telc Deutsch (C1 Hochschule): Accepted by many universities as an alternative to TestDaF.

If you’re in the UAE, you can prepare and sit these exams locally through the Goethe-Institut, which regularly conducts courses and official exams in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

How Long Does It Take to Learn German from Scratch?

Practically speaking, if you study intensively (15–20 hours per week), you can expect to reach B2–C1 level within 12–18 months.

Here’s a rough planning timeline:

  • A1 level: 60–80 hours of dedicated study
  • B1 level: 200–300 total hours
  • B2 level: 350–500 total hours
  • C1 level: 600–800 total hours

Don’t be discouraged — many students in the UAE are already multilingual, and language learning skills transfer. The key is starting early, staying consistent, and using quality resources.

How Abroad Routes Can Help You Get to Germany

Planning your move to Germany — whether for study or work — requires the right strategy and guidance.

Abroad Routes, based in Dubai, provides end-to-end support for:

  • Study in Germany – University selection, APS assistance, language guidance, and full student visa processing

  • Skilled Worker Visa – Qualification recognition, employer-based work permits, and residence applications

  • Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) – Eligibility assessment and complete application support

From documentation to relocation planning, we ensure your German journey is structured, compliant, and future-ready.

FAQ's:

Q1: Is German required for Study, Skilled Worker, or Opportunity Card in Germany?
In most cases, yes. While Germany offers English-taught study programmes and some English-speaking job roles, German significantly strengthens your application for student visas, Skilled Worker visas, and the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte). It improves employability, integration, and long-term residency prospects.

Q2: What level of German is recommended?

  • Study (German-taught programmes): Usually B2–C1 (TestDaF, Goethe C1, telc C1, or DSH).

  • Skilled Worker Visa: Typically B1–B2, depending on the profession.

  • Opportunity Card: German skills increase your points score and job prospects.

Q3: Can I apply without German language skills?
Yes, in limited cases — such as English-taught master’s programmes or certain IT roles. However, learning German is the best long-term strategy for visa approval, employment stability, and permanent residency.

Q4: Why is learning German a smart migration strategy?
German boosts hiring preference, supports visa renewals, is required for many regulated professions, and accelerates permanent residency and citizenship eligibility.

Q5: Can Abroad Routes assist with all pathways?
Yes. Abroad Routes provides complete support for Study Visas, Skilled Worker Visas, and the Germany Opportunity Card, including language guidance, documentation, and application processing.

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