Learning German
In Austria's culture and academic world German is the predominant language at Austrian universities and UASs.
Some universities look for B2 German proficiency while others might seek a C1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Beyond the realm of academia embracing the German language can lead to a more enriching Austrian experience.
Are you eager to begin your German journey? You could either start learning German in your home country or experience the language firsthand in Austria.
Courses in your own country
The Österreich Institute (Austrian Institutes) conduct German language courses outside Austria (Rome, Ljubljana, Warsaw, Krakow, Bratislava, Budapest and Brno).
The ÖSD Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (Austrian German Language Diploma) is a state-approved examination and assessment system for German as a Foreign Language / German as a Second Language. ÖSD exams can be taken all over the world (at more than 200 examination centres in over 40 countries worldwide).
Courses in Austria
Many institutions and organisations offer a variety of German language courses for foreigners. For more information consult Sprachportal.at
University Preparation Programmes
The University Preparation Programmes offer intensive German language courses for foreign university applicants in order to prepare them for supplementary examinations prescribed by the universities. Attention: Only students who have been admitted by an Austrian tertiary education institution can attend these courses. For an admission it is necessary to prove a German level of at least A2 (according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, CEFR).
More information about the University Preparation Programmes
Learning German on the ÖIF Language Portal
Austria’s largest German learning platform offers a wide range of free learning resources: With over 5,000 exercises, 500 learning videos and audios, and 100 online exercises, learners can prepare for using German in Austria.
The materials, ranging from literacy level to C1, cover everyday topics such as Austrian German, local customs and traditions, administrative procedures in Austria, and much more: Language Portal
Live Online Courses on the ÖIF Language Portal
In more than 70 free live online courses led by qualified instructors, learners can practice German weekly (Monday to Saturday) via the Language Portal: Online course offer
ÖIF Online Course “Learning German for Nursing”
This free online course is for anyone interested in nursing and caregiving in Austria who wants to improve their professional German skills. Aimed at learners with at least A2 level, the course includes over 1,000 self-study exercises. The topics can also be explored further in live online sessions, with a focus on both written and spoken communication. Highly recommended is the weekly live online course on nursing documentation: Learning German for Nursing
Financial Support for Professional Recognition/Nostrifizierung
The ÖIF Integration Service for Skilled Workers reimburses costs related to recognition and qualification assessment procedures (e.g., fees for official recognition notices or evaluation reports, translation costs for documents and certificates, administrative fees; up to €2,500 per person): Funding for Professional Recognition
It also covers tuition fees for individuals undergoing nostrification in health and care professions: Reimbursement of tuition tees for health professionals undergoing "Nostrifizierung"
Personalized Integration Counseling in Austria
Tailored one-on-one consultations on individual topics such as learning German, professional recognition, or social integration can be arranged by calling +43 5 0468 0 or emailing fachkraft@integrationsfonds.at.