German as a foreign language

Welcome to all German self-learners!

Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your skills, these online platforms offer a variety of tools to help you learn German at your own pace. From interactive lessons and vocabulary exercises to business German and cultural insights, there’s something for every level, from A1 beginners to C2 advanced learners. Most sites provide content in different languages, so you can choose the one that suits you best. Explore the websites below to find the resources that will make your German learning experience both effective and enjoyable!

Learning platforms and apps
  1. DW Deutsch lernen

    DW offers a wide range of free learning materials including videos, audio, interactive courses, and news tailored for DaF learners. Covers levels A1 to C2. The site supports learners in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Spanish, and more.
     

  2. Goethe-Institut

    The Goethe-Institut offers high-quality exercises, videos, and grammar explanations from beginner to advanced levels (A1–C2). Most of the content is in German, with some sections offering English support. Great for structured learning and exam prep.
     

  3. Deutsch Training

    DeutschTraining.de provides grammar explanations, vocabulary lists, and exercises for A1 to B2 levels. The content is mainly in German, so it's best for learners comfortable with basic German instructions.
     

  4. buchstaben.com

    This site focuses on alphabet, spelling, and basic grammar. Perfect for A1 learners and literacy-level students. The content is in simple German, ideal for absolute beginners and visual learners.
     

  5. thoughtco.com (German section)

    ThoughtCo’s German section offers grammar rules, vocab lists, and cultural articles. Suitable for A2–B2 learners. The explanations are in English, which makes it easier for English-speaking learners to follow.
     

  6. Wirtschaftsdeutsch

    Wirtschaftsdeutsch is pecialized in Business German, this site includes texts, vocabulary, and exercises for B2 and higher. The materials are in German and suited for learners preparing for work-related communication.
     

  7. Learn German (learngerman.dw.com)

    Learn German is part of DW, it offers structured online courses with videos and quizzes for A1 to B1. Learners can choose instructions in several languages including English, Arabic, Spanish, and more.
     

  8. VHS Lernportal

    VHS offers complete self-study courses from A1 to B2, plus literacy and integration courses. The portal supports multiple languages (e.g., English, Arabic, Turkish), making it highly accessible for beginners.

Reading comprehension: online magazines, news and magazines
  • Deutsch Perfekt: the magazine from ZEIT Sprachen is available both online and in print format. It consists of not too complex articles in German on topics of everyday life, politics/society and others. Some articles are also available as audio files. Other language learning areas include grammar, listening comprehension, communication and vocabulary.
  • Deutsche Welle: a leading news portal for reading the latest news in German.

 

Book Tips

  • PONS 600 exercises (in) German as a foreign language: with the textbook you learn German grammar and vocabulary on the basis of 600 exercises and puzzles.  Vocabulary can also be downloaded as lists.
  • Langenscheidt Sprechtraining Deutsch für den Beruf (German for the Job): for all those who want to learn oral communication for the professional life. It consists of meaningful vocabulary and helpful formulations. The listening and speaking exercises are available as MP3 downloads.
  • ASSiMiL Deutsch ohne Mühe heute für Ausländer / Assimil German with ease: aimed at those who do not like cramming grammar. The Assimil method is based on intuitive learning. After completing the learning workshop, 2,000 German words will have been learned and you’ll be able to form sentences for everyday life. Assimil-Verlag (Publisher)
  • Phonetiktrainer: Kurs- und Selbstlernmaterial für A1-B1 von Kerstin Reinke mit 2 Audio-CD, vielen Videos und Tricks zur Aussprache. Klett Verlag
Listening / Audio practice
  1. Deutsch Gespräche Podcast
    This podcast features authentic everyday conversations in German – ideal for advanced learners.
  2. Stories in German
    This channel offers short and engaging stories in simple German – perfect for beginners.
  3. DW – Kurz und leicht
    Find short videos on current topics, clearly explained – especially useful for beginners.
  4. DW – Learn German with Music
    Learn German through music videos and interactive exercises – suitable for A2 to B2 learners.
    Links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91ow-fNIIEE&list=PLs7zUO7VPyJ5Eg0NOtF9g-RhqA25v385c 
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ku1xByCG9WA&list=PLs7zUO7VPyJ7AAK5J08RnRw2L16KU_DaS
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYoBsGxUB_s&list=PLs7zUO7VPyJ7y41Uul0aOJsvlcwr8iRla
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYEZrn2uDLg&list=PLs7zUO7VPyJ4DcIf9o_Rm5iJQ8iTvR_De

Entertainment and Fun Learning
  1. Nico’s Way (Nicos Weg)
    This series follows Nico, a Spaniard new to Germany – full of everyday situations for beginners.
  2. Jojo sucht das Glück
    Jojo, a student from Brazil, looks for happiness in Cologne – an entertaining series with learning support.
  3. Extra in German
    This funny series for German learners includes clear dialogues and typical everyday situations.
  4. Hello from Berlin
    This youth series shows life in Berlin through songs, everyday topics, and young characters.
  5. First Steps in Germany
    This series offers useful tips for life in Germany – from official procedures to leisure activities.
  6. Gute Arbeit Originals
    A satirical sketch series about everyday working life in Germany – ideal for advanced learners who enjoy humor and cultural commentary.
Integration Through Language and Culture
  1. Germany for Beginners
    A must watch very first video after coming to Germany! This series provides a simple introduction to life, systems, and culture in Germany – great for newcomers.
  2. The Germany Lab (Das Deutschland Labor)
    In this series, young hosts explore different aspects of life in Germany – from daily routines to social values.
  3. German Festivals and Traditions
    These videos present important German holidays, traditions, and cultural events in an easy-to-understand format.
  4. Church and Religion in Germany
    This series provides an overview of religious diversity and how faith is practiced in Germany.
  5. Education in Germany
    Here you can learn about the German education system – from school and vocational training to university.
  6. German Cities and Regions
    This playlist introduces various cities and regions in Germany, showcasing local culture, dialects, and lifestyle.
  7. Working in Germany
    This series explains how to apply for jobs, write a CV, and understand the work culture in Germany.
  8. Food and Drink in Germany
    Discover Germany’s food culture, regional specialties, and popular dishes in this enjoyable series.