Learning German in Germany
German as a Foreign Language (GaFL) defines the status of the German language for all speakers or learners, who speak a mother tongue other than German.
GaFL is also a program of study and a technical term denoting German lessons for foreigners.
More than 20 universities exist in Germany, at which German as a foreign language or a second language can be studied as a major or minor subjects. The first chair for GaFL was established at the University of Leipzig in the 60s.
Courses in German as a Foreign Language are offered by many public and private educational providers within Germany and abroad, especially by the Adult Education Program (VHS) and the Goethe Institutes.
German as a Second Language is offered mostly in the context of public schools (e.g. Remedial Classes). (Source: wikipedia.de)
For German as a Foreign Language, there is a number of language exams available, e.g., the A1, A2, B1, etc.
The examinations and language levels are regulated by the Common European Frame of Reference for Learning Languages.
The Common European Frame of Reference is to assist the standardization and transparency in the learning of foreign languages throughout the European member countries. By the standardization of language certificates, the acceptance of these certificates, the cooperation of the educational establishments of different countries as well as the mobility of the people is facilitated.
The Common European Frame of Reference defines:
A1: Elementary Language Usage (Breakthrough)
European Language Certificate: German A1
Fit in German 1 (Youth) Start 1
A2: Elementary Language Usage (Waystage)
European Language Certificate: German A2
Fit in German 2 (Youth) Start 2
B1: Independent Language Usage (Threshold)
German Certificate (ZD)
B2: Independent Language Usage (Vantage)
Business German Certificate (ZDfB)
Test of German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF) - TDN 3
C1: Competent Language Usage (Effective Operational Proficiency)
Intermediate Examination (ZMP)
Examination in Business German International (PWD)
Test German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF) - TDN 4+5
German Language Text for University Admission (DSH)
Advanced Level Examination (ZOP)
C2: Competent Language Usage (Mastery)
Small German Diploma (KDS)
