Learn German at a Volkshochschule

A Volkshochschule, usually shortened to VHS, is a local adult-education centre. Its German courses can be useful whether you are starting out or building on what you already know. Find your local programme, get help choosing a level and check the booking conditions before paying.

In short

• Find your local centre through the DVV directory or search its vhs-Kursfinder for German courses.
• Check the exact level, pace and timetable. Ask whether advice or a placement test is required before registration.
• Compare the full cost, including any books and exam fees. Ask about local reductions and the documents needed.
• A VHS can offer ordinary German courses alongside integration and vocational courses. Check which kind you are booking.

What you need to know

This guide is for adults looking for a German course for everyday life, further learning or exam preparation. The level, format and target group depend on the local programme.

For example, Berlin’s VHS programme includes open German courses from A1 to C2, conversation and pronunciation practice, writing and exam training. It lists classroom, online and blended learning options. This describes Berlin’s offer; check what your own VHS currently provides.

If you need an integration course, use the integration-course guide for its separate admission and funding rules. The provider’s name alone does not tell you which programme a class belongs to.

What to do

1. Find the local provider. Use the DVV directory to search by town or centre name. The vhs-Kursfinder searches VHS course offers nationwide. Search for Deutsch, then open the centre’s own course page.
2. Ask for level advice. Tell the VHS what you have already studied and whether you need everyday German, writing practice or an exam. Ask which placement route to use and whether to bring an existing certificate. Munich’s VHS, for example, offers personal and telephone advice on courses and certificates.
3. Check the whole schedule. Compare start and end dates, weekly sessions, lesson volume, location and travel time. For an online or blended course, ask about live attendance and technical requirements. Confirm the exact module and what it covers; do not assume one booking covers an entire language level.
4. Confirm costs and conditions. Check the points below before registering. Ask the local office about reductions and when it needs the supporting documents.
5. Follow that VHS’s registration instructions. Ask whether you can book online or need a consultation first. Keep the course number, confirmation and payment record. If the class is full, ask about another start date or a waiting list.

Before you pay

Ask the provider:

• Does the advertised fee cover the whole course or one module? Are books or materials extra?
• Is an exam included? If you need a certificate, which exam is it, how do you register and what does it cost?
• Are you eligible for a reduction, and which costs does it cover?
• When is payment due? How do you cancel or change the booking, and which deadlines and charges apply?
• Is the room accessible for your needs? Who should you contact about adjustments?

Use your own provider’s terms. Munich’s VHS, for example, says registration is binding and missing lessons does not cancel the fee obligation. Its terms distinguish cancellation through the office from simply telling the teacher or staying away. Local conditions need their own check. The contracts and subscriptions guide explains further points to check in a contract.

Practise while you wait

The DVV’s vhs-Lernportal offers free online German learning. You can use a phone, tablet or computer and learn at your own pace. Use it for practice alongside a course or while looking for a place; check course attendance and exam requirements separately.

Common mistakes

• Assuming every VHS course is free or part of a BAMF programme.
• Booking from the level label alone without checking placement advice, pace or module content.
• Treating exam preparation or course attendance as a confirmed exam booking or certificate.
• Stopping attendance without checking how to cancel the booking.