The German language is among the most widely used languages in Europe, with around 130 million people worldwide speaking it as a mother language or second language. You can study German in your home country, through online classes, or with mobile apps that offer free German language lessons.
However, these methods might not be enough if you’re looking to master the language at a professional level. Language learning requires familiarity and practice that only a place where the language is naturally used can provide. For that, here are some of the best countries to study German abroad.
Top Countries to Study German
1. Germany
If you’re looking to study the German language abroad, it makes sense to choose Germany as your host country. Besides the obvious reason, you’ll find many academic institutions and university language centers that offer German language courses. Some strong options are Heidelberg University, University of Augsburg, and University of Mannheim.
What makes Germany one of the best countries to study German is the combination of structured instruction and everyday practice. Learning the language is not limited to books and theories; you can use German in classes, shops, public offices, and daily conversations. Learning outcomes are often directed toward the use of German in academic, formal, and professional settings. If you’re looking to pursue other study fields in Germany, learning the language this way is an ideal first step.
The country also offers career opportunities for skilled professionals from other countries. Once you overcome the language barrier, it becomes easier to explore career options that can bring out the best in you. Besides earning well, you may also get a chance to work with leading employers in Europe’s largest economy.
2. Liechtenstein
- Best School/s: University of Liechtenstein
- Reasons: German-speaking environment, compact academic setting, and transparent tuition and living costs
It’s also worth learning the German language outside Germany, and one of the best countries you should consider is Liechtenstein. Also called the Principality of Liechtenstein, this country is among the smallest in Europe and uses German as its official language. It is located between Switzerland and Austria, providing international students with a convenient way to explore Europe, starting with this hidden gem.
Liechtenstein has two recognized higher education institutions, and the University of Liechtenstein is the country’s only public university. The university’s latest figures list 626 students in consecutive programs and 203 permanent employees, which makes it a compact academic setting. The university also offers language courses, including German as a foreign language, for its students. You’ll also be able to put your German language skills into constant practice as you converse with fellow students, professors, and people in everyday life.
After your studies in Liechtenstein, you can also consider starting your career here. The country’s financial center is an important part of the national economy, especially in areas such as banking, asset management, insurance, and fiduciary services. Current University of Liechtenstein tuition fees are CHF 950 per semester for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals and CHF 1,250 per semester for other international students. Expected monthly living expenses are about CHF 1,500, although actual costs vary by lifestyle.
3. Austria
With German as its official language, Austria is surely one of the best countries to study German. German is also the predominant language at Austrian universities and universities of applied sciences, although some programs are offered in English. You can find German courses through institutions such as the University of Vienna, the University of Klagenfurt, and Vienna University of Technology.
The country is also an excellent place to get closer to nature. Stunning scenery, including forests, mountains, and lakes, welcomes you all year round. Taking a step back from busy life to appreciate how beautiful Austria is does not need to take much of your time. You can put your shoes on and enjoy a quiet hike. Of course, learning how to ski in the winter is also an exciting way to enjoy the country and chase the winter blues away.
If studies and nature don’t occupy all your free time, you’ll still find many things to do in the cities. Austria has a rich culture apparent in its food, arts, music, and architecture. Even festivals reflect the enviable culture this country has. Some events and places worth checking during your stay in Austria are beer festivals, Christmas markets, classical music recitals, and Salzburg’s historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you explore these, you’ll also have an ideal opportunity to work on your German skills.
4. Belgium
Learning and mastering a new language requires you to go outside the four corners of the classroom. It demands that you overcome self-consciousness and use the language in everyday life. Such is the case for learning German. Belgium can be a good option for students who want a multilingual European environment, but it is important to know that German is mainly used in the German-speaking region in eastern Belgium. Belgium has four linguistic regions: Dutch-speaking, French-speaking, bilingual Brussels-Capital, and German-speaking.
If German immersion is your priority, the German-speaking Community in East Belgium is the most relevant area to consider. The Autonome Hochschule Ostbelgien is the only higher education institution in that community. Outside East Belgium, major universities such as KU Leuven, the Catholic University of Louvain (UCLouvain), and Ghent University offer German courses or German-related language study through their language centers or academic programs.
Outside the university, Belgium offers a vibrant social life, giving you opportunities to meet people from different linguistic backgrounds. The universities can guide you in the right direction and ensure you’re learning what you’re supposed to learn. But mastery is still up to you, so regular practice outside school remains important.
If nightlife isn’t your thing, which is highly understandable in many cases, Belgium offers numerous cultural attractions to make your stay more worthwhile. Some of the places you can visit are the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, the Belgian Comic Strip Center, and the Waterloo Battlefield.
5. Luxembourg
Luxembourg joins the list of the best countries to study German abroad. When you’re living far from home and family, it’s natural to feel cautious about your surroundings. Luxembourg is better described as a generally safe destination rather than a crime-free society. Violent crime is not common, but students should still follow normal safety precautions.
Another reason to study German in Luxembourg is its multilingual environment. Luxembourgish, French, and German are official languages in the country’s administrative and legal systems, and German remains useful in education, media, and daily life. Learning one of the country’s official administrative languages can also support your goal of building a career in Luxembourg.
Of course, the quality of education is often what international students consider when choosing the best countries to study German abroad. The University of Luxembourg offers language courses in French, English, German, and other languages through its Language Centre, though its German courses are generally for University of Luxembourg students and doctoral candidates. Another option is the Institut National des Langues Luxembourg, which offers adult language courses, including German.
Learning a foreign language like German, whether for professional or personal use, is very important for learning about other cultures and building global connections. The countries above are strong options if you want to learn German. Depending on your eligibility, you may also be able to reduce your costs by applying for fully funded scholarships on our website.
We hope that you found this article on the best countries to study German informative and helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs for International Students!
