Frequently Asked Questions

I speak little or very little German. How and when can I begin to learn German?
Please have a look at our current course schedule or give us a call. We will tell you the next possible starting dates. In general, we open a new course with a minimum of four participants (group rate).
How do I pick the right course?
You are welcome to come by for a free consulting session (conversation and/or proficiency level test). We will recommend a suitable course and invite you to a trial class. After this, you can decide yourself on how to proceed.
Is there a registration fee?
For the first registration we charge €35,-.
Consulting interview and entry-level test are free of charge as well as a taster class in one of our ongoing groups.
Up to now, I have not had the time for regular German classes. I more or less understand German, however, I cannot build proper sentences.
We will provide advice and recommend a class to you. Most likely, in the beginning a combination package will be right for you: participation in a group course combined with one-on-one tuition, so your special needs can be addressed properly (see price list: combination rate)
How long does a course go on for?
Our courses are in accordance with the levels of the European Framework of Reference. One level (i.e. A2.1 or A2.2, etc.) usually includes ten to twelve weeks (two 90 min sessions each week). According to the chosen tariff you pay for the whole course (€16,- per 90 min) or in two installments (€18,- per 90 min).
What if I miss (a) class(es)?
You can make up for the missed class in another group. Should there be no parallel group the same level as yours you may join another one for repetition or a higher one for „preview“.
Twice a month (on Friday afternoons) we offer practice groups under the auspices of one of our teachers ready to assist you to catch up. This group includes 30 minutes of conversation so that you can start off into your weekend well prepared!
If you inform us two weeks before an intended absence we will provide you with a „voucher“ that can be handed in for a free attendance of the practice group mentioned above. You might as well use it for a reduction of fees in the following course. Or give it to a friend or colleague who is not yet learning German with us.
I would like to work with a personal tutor on my vocabulary and on communication skills, that are important for me (e.g. presentation, communication in the office, etc.)
For you, we recommend one-on-one tuition. Please make an appointment for a first consulting session, also on the phone if you like.
Can I take a language test with you?
We will prepare you for taking one of the German language proficiency tests (e.g. Goethe Institute). The test itself will be administered by the VHS (or another testing agency). We will happily give you advice.
I learn best when talking about interesting subjects and pick up vocabulary and grammar „on the go“.
Come to one of our conversation classes or one of the Friday lectures (see „extras“)!
Which books do I need and where can I buy them?
For the group classes, usually you will need „Themen aktuell“. You can buy it at local booksellers (e.g. Thalia) or via the Internet (e.g. amazon.de) or directly at the editorial (Hueber-Verlag). All additional exercise material is free of charge.
Can I get proof of my participation in one of your courses?
Certainly. We will confirm your participation in one of our courses and the achieved level of proficiency („Gemeinsamer Europäischer Referenzrahmen“)