In many study programs in Germany, it is usually a prerequisite that you learn the German language.
Thus, there are some German language proficiency tests that you may have to take, such as the TestDaF or DSH, to show you know enough German to pursue your studies there.
For some, however, it’s not a requirement, especially if it is an international program.
If you belong to the second group of students, but still want to learn German, here are some tips you can follow to improve your German while studying in Germany.
Why Study German?
Before learning the tips, here are some of the reasons why you should study German.
- Spoken by more than 130 million people in the world
- German is the official language of 7 countries in the European Union
- As of 2020, there are 15.4 million people learning the German language
- Germany has one of the largest economies by GDP in the world
Tips to Improve Your German While in Germany
Here are some tips you can follow to improve your German.
By Incorporating Your Study of the Language in your Everyday Life
The best way to easily learn a language is by incorporating them into your daily life.
Even if you are taking an English program, at a school where the medium of instruction is English and most of the students and faculty also speak in English, you can still include German in your daily life.
For example, when you go out and talk to people, while you are watching television, listening to the radio, or reading newspapers. If you are living in a dorm or shared place with other German students, always talk to them. Moreover, since you are living with other people, and you are sharing a house and maybe other resources, the conversation won’t sound forced.
This way, you get to memorize words and phrases much more quickly.
Look for Tandem Partners
Learn German by teaching other people your language through tandem learning.
Here, two individuals with different native languages learn together by taking turns speaking either of the languages.
Not only is tandem learning a good way to learn a new language, but it’s also a great way to meet new friends, and learn the language for free.
You can look for a tandem partner by asking for assistance from your schools, such as through the student service, international office, or language office.
Join Language Courses or Teach Yourself the Language
If you are studying in Germany, there’s a big chance that your chosen institution is also teaching German courses that you can join.
It’s up to you when you want to take them, as they may be taught during summer or normal school years. Aside from your school, other organizations or language schools teach German.
If you don’t want to join a class (which can sometimes be expensive), you can also study on your own. There are many resources you can use online to study German.
Moreover, since you are already in Germany, you can supplement your self-studying with real-life conversations with your classmates and people you get to interact with daily. This way, you get to improve your German much quicker.
Learn more information and tips about studying and living in Germany by checking our articles at MSM Unify.
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