The integration course is the first big step for many people who are new to Germany. Here you will find out what it covers, who can participate, and how to register.
What Is an Integration Course?
The integration course is a state-funded program of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). Its goal: to help people who are new to Germany integrate linguistically and socially as quickly as possible.
The course is aimed at anyone who wants to live permanently in Germany and does not yet have sufficient German skills. At the end, you receive a recognized certificate that you need for many further steps – from naturalization to extending your residence permit.
What Does the Course Consist Of?
An integration course consists of two building blocks that together make up 700 teaching units (UE).
1. Language course – 600 teaching units. Here you learn German from the ground up, split into six modules of 100 UE each. The goal is language level B1 – enough to communicate in everyday life, at government offices, and at work.
2. Orientation course – 100 teaching units. The second part is no longer just about language, but about Germany itself: the legal system, history, culture and values. The course ends with the "Living in Germany" (LiD) test.
| Module | Scope | Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Language course | 600 UE | DTZ exam (level B1) |
| Orientation course | 100 UE | "Living in Germany" test |
Who Is Entitled to an Integration Course?
Not everyone has to – but many are allowed to or must participate:
| Group | Situation |
|---|---|
| New immigrants with a residence title | Entitled if staying permanently |
| Recognized asylum seekers & refugees | May be required to participate |
| EU citizens | Participation at discretion, subject to availability |
| Recipients of Grundsicherung (basic income support) | Usually required by the job center |
| Resettlers (Spätaussiedler) | Entitled to participate |
What Does the Integration Course Cost?
The good news first: for many people the course is completely free – for example if you receive Grundsicherung or other social benefits.
If you're not entitled to have the cost covered, you currently pay €2.29 per teaching unit – around €1,603 for the full 700-UE course. That sounds like a lot, but there are ways to ease the burden: exemption if you receive social benefits, a 50% refund if you complete the course within two years, and installment plans with most course providers.
How Do I Register?
-
1
Check entitlement or obligation
Find out from the BAMF, the immigration office, or the job center whether you are entitled to attend or required to.
-
2
Apply for admission
You submit an application for admission to the BAMF – online or on paper. After review, you receive an admission notice.
-
3
Find a course provider
Look for an approved provider near you – for example ZeBuS e.V. in Berlin-Neukölln.
-
4
Placement test & course start
A short test before the course begins shows which language level you'll be placed in. Then you're ready to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the course also available online?
How long does the course take?
What happens if I don't pass the DTZ exam?
Am I allowed to work during the course?
The First Step Counts
The integration course is more than a mandatory exercise – it's the foundation for your everyday life, your career, and your future in Germany. And you don't have to go this way alone.
Want to know if you're entitled to an integration course?
We offer free, no-obligation advice – in person in Berlin-Neukölln or online.
Schedule a consultation