Integrationskurs (Integration course)
An integration course is a special course designed for learning the German language and German culture. It is aimed at immigrants who wish to live permanently in Germany and who do not yet have sufficient command of the German language for everyday life. The general integration course consists of two parts: a language course with 600 teaching units and an orientation course with 100 teaching units (one teaching unit lasts 45 minutes).
There are also special integration courses. These courses last for 1,000 teaching units (900 from the language course + 100 from the orientation course). From this category, we only offer courses for individuals who are unable to read and write properly.
Language Course
In this course, you will learn vocabulary that you need for everyday communication and daily life in Germany. This course is structured and designed for you to learn German as a second language. This means that you can immediately integrate what you have learned into your daily life, for example, when shopping or conversing with neighbours, authorities, or at the workplace. You will also learn how to handle written matters, such as writing letters or filling out forms. This gives you the opportunity to learn and use the German language quickly.
Orientation Course
The orientation course is often colloquially referred to as the "politics course." In this course, you will learn about political topics, specifically the legal system of Germany. You will also gain insights into the culture and recent history of this country. Linguistically, you will learn new terms that can improve your language level, which is a significant advantage if you have not yet taken your B1 exam or if you wish to continue with a B2 course.
Qualifications
The language course concludes with the German Test for Immigrants (DTZ A2-B1). This is a scaled test, meaning that you can receive a certificate at either A2 or B1 level, depending on your score. The orientation course ends with the "Living in Germany" test, which consists of 33 questions, three of which pertain to our federal state, Baden-Württemberg. Those who successfully pass both tests will receive the "Integration Course Certificate" as an overarching certificate.
Participation and Costs
To participate in an integration course, you need a participation entitlement. This is granted as admission or obligation by the BAMF, the Jobcenter, or the immigration authority
(Ausländerbehörde) based on your personal residence status. Without this participation entitlement, participation is only possible as a self-payer. In this case, you must cover the course costs of €458 per course section (module) yourself. Those who receive a participation entitlement but no exemption from course fees pay 50% of the costs. Otherwise, participation is free for you.
Participation in the DTZ test and the "Living in Germany" test is also free for you if you are eligible. You can obtain more detailed information about your personal situation at our office.
Please check whether you are obligated or exempt under § 44a AufenthG to participate in an integration course or an orientation course.
Disclaimer: This is only an informative page. It was translated automatically from the Original in German. Therefore it may contain redactional mistakes that could lead to information missunderstandings. If that is the case, please feel free to contact us and let us know. Thank you!