Aachener Sprachsommer - German Language Summer Courses

Serving as the language centre of the FH Aachen, we offer  German language summer courses of about 4 weeks duration on an annual basis in July, August and September. The international participants of this programme will visit intensive German courses and, at the same time, have the opportunity of getting to know Aachen and its surroundings. In what follows, you will find information with respect to course details, leisure activities as well as accommodation and lodging.

Intensive German Courses

General German Courses

We offer courses on 8 different proficiency levels – ranging from A1.2 to C1 (according to the CEFR). All participants should have a minimum of previous knowledge as there is no course for absolute beginners. By means of a little entry-level test during the first course day we determine the adequate course for each individual participant.
According to the level, topics from the fields of applied geography, German culture and literature are also tackeld in the classes.

Professional Language Courses

For participants with profound previous knowledge (minimum level B2), we offer three alternative specialised courses: „German for Engineers", „Business German“ and "Didactics for German as a Foreign Language". Within the framework of these courses the participants will be taught specific topics, the corresponding vocabulary as well as the relevant linguistic usage. Furthermore, the groups will go on excursions to local companies.

Courses take place every weekday morning at a scopüe of 5 lessons per day.

Examinations and Certificates

Participants who attend their classes regularly and pass the final exam will obtain a certificate as well as 5 ECTS-Credits, if acknowledged by the university or institution of their home countries.

In addition to the final exam which is part of the summer course, participants with appropriate previous knowledge of German can also apply for one of the standardised, acknowledged German exams such as DSH (except for July), TestDaF (except for August) or Zertifikat Deutsch. The participation in one of these exams is subject to an examination fee. We advise all summer course participants who are interested in taking one of the official exams to contact us at least 8 weeks in advance by email, so we can send all relevant information and explain how to apply. For each of the exams, there is an application deadline which must not be exceeded.

Leisure Activities

All participants of our language summer courses may expect a multitude of leisure activities. Some events are subject to additional charges, a large number of events, however, are free of charge. 
We offer excursions at the weekends which cost a certain fee, e.g. an excursion to Bonn, to Brussels, to Amsterdam, to Maastricht, to Leige or to Paris (depending on the month). Those weekend trips will be thoroughly prepared beforehand within the framework of lectures.
Our leisure activities furthermore include a welcome party, guided city tours, visits to museums, excursions in and about Aachen, movie nights, get-togethers as well as a farewell night. Our gallery provides insight into last year’s activities and excursions.

Lodging & Transport

For a relevant fee we offer the participants of our language summer courses lodging in a student’s single or twin bedroom for the duration of the course. Showers and kitchens are usually shared and will be used by several inhabitants. The accommodations are located close to the city centre. Upon their arrival in our office, all participants who have booked lodging will be accompanied to their accommodations by members of our staff.
Prior to their arrival at Aachen, participants can make reservations for a monthly ticket for public transportation at a reduced price which enables them to use busses within Aachen during the entire time of the course. The tickets can be paid upon arrival.