Germany

The Best Language Schools to learn German in Munich

by Roisin McAuley  |  Published November 5, 2020

The capital of Bavaria, Munich, is a laid back city at the foot of the Alps where modern technology and art live in harmony with tradition and Bavarian customs. Known for the Oktoberfest and successful football club Bayern Munich, the city is loved for its relaxed atmosphere which appeals to students coming from all over the world to learn German.

Modernity compliments tradition in laid-back Munich (Photo: Steffen Flor via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0)

Learning German in Munich gives students new perspectives and unique experiences of Bavarian culture. Munich is home to several established language schools that offer German courses at all levels, over different periods and that fit with students’ schedules. We’ve researched what’s on offer, and selected three of the best language schools in Munich taking into account past student reviews and breadth of programmes available.

SDI München
www.sdi-muenchen.de/
For over 60 years, SDI München has offered German language courses to students making it a top institute for languages and communication. The SDI teaches language courses for levels of proficiency from beginner (A1) to Advanced (C1) level, given by experienced staff who support all students using modern, effective teaching methods. Courses run for either a 4-week or 8-week period. The institute also has programmes for nursery school teachers and medical practitioners, as well as summer and online courses. Exam preparation courses are also available to prepare students to take the TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language). The SDI can also offer accommodation at its on-campus studio apartments.

Small classes ensure fun, personalised learning at BWS  (Photo: BWS German Lingua)

BWS German Lingua
www.bws-germanlingua.de/
A short three-minute walk from Munich’s central Marienplatz, BWS German Lingua has taught German as a foreign language since 1984. Courses run from one to 48 weeks, taking place in the morning with additional classes in the afternoon during the high season. Standard language courses cover the four main pillars of language learning: speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Lessons are given in small groups, with a maximum of 12 participants, to ensure all students receive personalised attention and all participants actively practise their new skills. Classes are taught by highly qualified teachers, who create a welcoming atmosphere for students in classrooms with modern facilities. Students can select the schedule that suits them, with options of 20 or 25 lessons per week, as well as individual tuition.

Goethe-Institut
www.goethe.de/
A well-known name in the language world, the Goethe-Institut is a cultural establishment with an active worldwide network that promotes the study of the German language and international cultural exchange. Its Munich institute is located in the city’s lively Haidhausen district. The area has excellent transport connections in and around the city, and the institute is easy to reach from the city centre. Courses take place during the week, evening and weekend, as well as offering specialised programmes for architects and refresher courses. The Goethe-Institut offers accommodation during its programmes, with a variety of options available to suit students’ preference and budget: in guesthouses, associate-hotels or with host families.