top of page
Search

What is an (online) integration course and what alternatives are there?

  • Writer: V-IZ
    V-IZ
  • Sep 19
  • 3 min read

1. Introduction

For many people, an integration course is the first big step into a new life in Germany. But what exactly is involved, who can participate, and what alternatives are there for those who can't or don't want to attend a BAMF-funded course? In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about integration courses – and what modern options there are for learning German online today.


2. What is an integration course?

The integration course is a state-funded educational program in Germany. It is aimed at immigrants, refugees, and certain other groups living permanently in Germany.


Structure of an integration course:

  • Language course (600 hours): Teaches the basics of the German language (A1–B1).

  • Orientation course (100 hours): Covers German history, culture, legal system, values, and the political system.


Goals:

  • Reaching language level B1 (CEFR).

  • Passing the German test for immigrants (DTZ) .

  • Participation in the orientation test “Living in Germany” .


Legal basis:

  • Integration courses are enshrined in Section 43 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) .

  • Implemented by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) .


👉 More information directly from BAMF .


3. Who can participate in the integration course?

  • Mandatory participants: Persons who are required by the immigration authorities or job centers.

  • Eligible persons: New immigrants with residence permits, recognized refugees, ethnic German repatriates.

  • Volunteers: EU citizens or specific groups of people who apply.

Cost:

  • Regular: €458 per module (as of 2025).

  • Own contribution for 700 hours: approx. 1,600 € .

  • Exemption from costs is possible for recipients of citizen’s allowance or social assistance.


👉 Overview of costs & conditions of participation: BAMF – Participation in the integration course .


4. Problems of traditional integration courses

As valuable as the integration courses are, many participants encounter difficulties:

  • Long waiting times : In many cities, courses are fully booked for months.

  • Fixed times : face-to-face classes in the morning or evening – inflexible for working people.

  • Accessibility : There is a lack of course offerings, particularly in rural areas.

  • Overcrowded classes : often 20–25 people, individual support difficult.

  • Not accessible to all : people abroad or without authorization cannot participate.


5. What alternatives are there to the integration course?

For those who do not want to wait or do not fit into the BAMF system, there are now modern alternatives.


a) Online integration courses (private providers)

Digital offerings such as V-IZ – Video Integration Center make it possible to learn German flexibly online .

Advantages:

  • Courses A1–B1 available entirely via video.

  • Including course book (Hueber Schritte Plus Neu).

  • Flexible learning times, can be paused at any time.

  • No waiting, instant access.

  • Price from €34.99 per month (cheaper than many private language schools).

👉 More information: Learn German online with V-IZ .


b) Adult education centres and language schools (not funded)

Many adult education centers offer parallel courses for self-payers.

Disadvantage: often more expensive (€250–350 per module), fixed course times.


c) Apps & digital tools

  • Duolingo German (free, fun).

  • Babbel (paid, but only basic knowledge).

Good as a supplement, but not a full-fledged course for integration or exam.


d) Self-learning materials

Disadvantage: No structure, no support, slow progress.


6. Comparison: BAMF integration course vs. alternatives

feature

BAMF integration course

V-IZ online course

Adult education center / private school

Apps

Cost

1,600 € (often subsidized)

from 34.99 €/month

250–350 €/module

10–15 €/month

flexibility

Fixed times

Anytime

Fixed times

Anytime

Access

Only with authorization

Open to everyone worldwide

Open to self-payers

Open to all

Diploma

DTZ + LiD exam

Preparation up to B1

Partial certificates

No official

Learning material

Course book, teacher

Video + Coursebook

Teacher + Book

App-based

Waiting times

Weeks–Months

Start now

often waiting lists

immediately

7. Which option is worthwhile for whom?

  • Eligible for funding → classic BAMF integration course.

  • Working people, parents, Germans living abroad → online course (e.g. V-IZ ).

  • Fast exam preparation → Combination: online course + exam at telc/Goethe.

  • Leisure learning → Apps or YouTube as a supplement.


8. Conclusion

Integration courses are a valuable component of the German immigration system. However, they are not always accessible or suitable for every life situation.


The good news: Today there are powerful alternatives that can be just as effective – and are often much more flexible.


 
 
 

Recent Posts

See All

Comments

bottom of page