Learn German for free: The best options

‍Thereare many reasons to learn a language: maybe you've just moved to the country, maybe you need the language to get ahead professionally, maybe you have a vacation home in the country, maybe you're simply fascinated by the language or have fallen in love with someone and want to connect on a deeper level. Whatever the reason you want to learn German for free , keep in mind that knowing German can also open up new professional opportunities, as German is the most widely spoken language in Europe (as a first language) and is an official language in Germany, Austria, part of Switzerland and part of Italy.

Fortunately, there are many free ways to improve your language skills online and offline. Here we show you how you can learn German effectively and for free - whether you're just starting out or want to improve your skills.

Why you should learn German

Apart from the fact that you may be doing it for personal reasons, learning German has many objective advantages - especially if you work or want to work in Germany. Here are some reasons to learn German:

• Better job opportunities in Germany: Many employers prefer employees who speak German - not out of discrimination, but because the job requires a good command of the language in order to be able to deal with customers or to communicate and integrate better with colleagues.
• Making everyday life easier: from shopping to dealing with the authorities, many things are easier if you can speak German. You certainly don't want to discuss anything with the doctor or the tax office without at least understanding the basics of the language.
• Come into contact with people: Understanding the German language and culture will help you integrate better into society and make contacts, which will ultimately improve your working life. You can communicate better in everyday life and take part in activities and courses, e.g. if you've always wanted to make new hiking friends or take part in a sommelier course. Understanding the language will help you!

Germans know that their language is difficult and many speak English very well. In addition, some jobs in Germany do not require knowledge of German. If you want to work straight away, take a look at our article on jobs without German language skills! We have listed the jobs where you have the best chances of getting a job without speaking a word of German. 

If it does take longer to find a job, you can get support from the German state. You can apply for unemployment benefit, which will not only give you money each month, but also allow you to attend various language courses or further training free of charge. 

Free ways to learn German: an overview

Fortunately, there are many options for learning German at no cost. Depending on how much time you want to invest, you'll find methods for different learning styles and occasions:

• Apps such as Duolingo and Babbel: These apps offer interactive exercises and are ideal for learning vocabulary on the go. You can use them at any time, e.g. on the subway or while waiting.
• YouTube channels and Instagram profiles: Many teachers share German lessons online. Popular channels include "German with Jenny" on YouTube and @germanwithniklas on Instagram. Here you can find free material and useful exercises.
• Podcasts and music: German podcasts such as SZ Auf den Punkt (news) and Coffee Break German (learning podcast) are ideal for listening to and understanding German on the side.
• Adult education centers and libraries: If you are unemployed or meet certain conditions, you can often take part in free German courses at adult education centers. Find out locally what options are available.
• Language tandem apps: With apps such as Tandem or HelloTalk, you can talk to German-speaking partners who want to learn your native language. This way, you can help each other and practise the language in conversation.

• Media consumption: News and films in German help you to learn the language passively. Much of this content is available free of charge and will help you get used to the sound of the language.

Did you know that as an EU citizen you have special residence rights to work in Germany? You can find out more about this in our article on working in Germany as an EU citizen.

Learning German: Tips to take away

Here you will find a brief overview of tips for learning German for free. This list is ideal for saving or taking screenshots:

• Apps: Duolingo, Babbel
• YouTube: German with Jenny, Easy German, Goethe-Institut, Deutsche Welle
• Instagram: germanwithniklas, deutschlernenmitmax, deutsch_mit_benjamin
• Podcasts: SZ Auf den Punkt, Coffee Break German
• Adult education courses (often free of charge under certain conditions)
• Tandem apps: Tandem, HelloTalk
• Community courses and libraries (in many cities)

Whether with an app, through podcasts or in a tandem - there are many ways to learn German for free. If you are looking for a job in Germany, visit WorkerHero. WorkerHero is the ideal platform to quickly find a job in Germany, even if your German language skills are still in need of improvement. There are many opportunities for skilled workers in the blue and gray areas.