Why Learn German at Wordculture?
Zurich is a German-speaking city, and anyone who lives, works, or studies here simply gets further with the German language. Whether dealing with authorities, networking, or entering the Swiss job market: German skills give you a major advantage in Zurich.
At Wordculture, you learn German with experienced teachers in small groups of no more than 6 participants. Our school is located within walking distance of Zurich Main Station.
We also offer exam preparation courses for all language certificates and have been an accredited testing center for telc certificates and fide tests since 2013.
We also offer German courses for children.
Where and how do I want to learn?
In-person
Hybrid
Online
Group Course
Private Course
Intensive Course
Standard German Course
Our standard course is the centerpiece of our offerings. In the regular format, you meet twice a week for two lessons each time. That's enough to make continuous progress without turning your daily routine upside down. If you have children, we also offer in-house childcare or family discounts.
Do you prefer a slower pace? One session per week, whether in a group or in private lessons, is also possible by arrangement. Contact us, and together we'll find the right German course that fits your life.
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German Courses
German Conversation Course B1–C2
In the conversation course, the motto is: speak, speak, speak, and speak even more! You probably already understand a lot, but when it comes down to it, do you lack the words? Then a German conversation course in Zurich is just right for you. Here you will find the space and opportunity to practice free speaking intensively. Whether it's small talk at a party, in the office, at the doctor's, at school, or in discussions among friends – in our conversation courses, you practice everyday situations that you will encounter in real life.
Minimum requirement: completed A2
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German Courses
German Intensive Course
Course period: Start date 05/05/2026
If you want to make rapid progress in a short time, an intensive course is your best option. We regularly offer intensive courses from A1 to C1, ideal if you enjoy a fast pace and are ready to fully immerse yourself in the German language. An intensive course will help you achieve quick success, whether for work, exams, or studies. We will get you to your goal efficiently, so nothing stands in the way of your life in Zurich. With several course days per week and a tight but varied program, you will practice grammar, vocabulary, writing, and free speaking, improving your listening comprehension and speaking skills in the shortest possible time.
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German Courses
German A2 Intensive
40 hours, price CHF 1,400, 11:30-13:30
Start date: May 15, 2026
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German Courses
Exam Preparation Courses for telc, Goethe, or fide-test
Do you need a German language certificate? We offer targeted preparation courses for telc or Goethe certificates as well as the fide-test.
In the exam training sessions, you refresh your knowledge for the respective level and learn proven strategies from experienced exam teachers.
telc certificate, fide-test, or Goethe certificate—the goal is the same, and a successful result comes through professional preparation. Afterwards, you can pass your exam at our center.
Naturalisation Courses for the City of Zurich
Anyone seeking ordinary naturalisation in the Canton of Zurich or the City of Zurich must demonstrate German language skills. Typically, this means at least level B1 in speaking and A2 in writing. More specific requirements are linked to your permit, so you must inform yourself thoroughly about which requirements apply to your personal case.
Recognised language certificates include telc, Goethe, or the fide-test. There is also the Cantonal German Test for Naturalisation (KDE). As an accredited examination center and partner of the City of Zurich, official language exams can be taken at our center.
In addition, the canton requires knowledge of Swiss geography, politics, history, and culture, as well as Zurich’s municipal system. To acquire this comprehensive knowledge, we offer naturalization courses specifically designed to prepare you for Zurich naturalization.
Why Wordculture?
Small groups for maximum results
Max. 6 people for plenty of speaking time and fast results
Professional Teachers
Qualified, experienced, and specialised in adult education
Partner of the City of Zurich
Approved and recommended by the City of Zurich
KulturLegi discounts
Family discounts
Discounts on all language courses – also for the whole family
Book a free consultation and we'll find the right course for you.
German by Level from A1 to C2
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) divides language proficiency into six levels. Here you can see what you should be able to do at each level and which course at Wordculture is right for you.
Not sure what level you are? No problem. We offer a free placement test so you can start exactly where it benefits you most. Contact us!
A1: Complete Beginners
You learn to communicate in simple everyday situations to introducing yourself, asking for directions, ordering in a restaurant, asking and answering simple questions. The basic vocabulary comprises around 500 words.
A2: German in Everyday Life
You understand frequently used expressions and can communicate in routine situations: shopping, traveling, simple conversations at work. You can read short texts and write simple emails. Your vocabulary grows to around 1,000 words.
B1: Communicate Independently
You can handle most everyday situations well: traveling to German-speaking countries, conversations about familiar topics such as work, leisure, and current events. You write coherent texts and can justify your opinion. This is often the minimum requirement for entering the job market at companies in Zurich.
B2: Speak Confidently and Fluently
You understand complex texts and can converse spontaneously and fluently with native speakers. You write clear, detailed reports and argue convincingly in writing. B2 is considered as the level at which you can work productively in German on a
Swiss team in Zurich.
C1: Communicate Professionally
You express yourself fluently, in a structured and nuanced way, even on complex and abstract topics. You understand demanding texts and can formulate nuanced arguments. C1 is the level that most Swiss universities and companies in Zurich expect for leadership positions.
C2: Native-Level Proficiency
You understand virtually everything you read or hear effortlessly. You summarize information from various sources and argue coherently at the highest level. C2 is aimed at people who publish, negotiate, or teach professionally or academically in German and aspire to near-native proficiency.
Student review
Thanks to the childcare, I was able to learn German at Wordculture from A1 to B2 in 2 years. Now I can talk to other parents and the teachers at school. Speaking German was very important to me for my integration in Zurich. I feel more at home here now.
Giulia from Zurich
The initial consultation and trial lesson are completely free and without obligation. Get in touch to book an appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Are there hybrid German courses?
Yes. At Wordculture, you can flexibly combine in-person and online sessions. This is ideal for working professionals in the Zurich area whose daily schedules aren’t always predictable. This way, you can stay on track with your studies even on days you work from home, go on business trips, or have unexpected appointments. Please let us know about your situation during your course consultation, and we’ll find a program that fits your lifestyle.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Do I learn Standard German or Swiss German at Wordculture?
At Wordculture, we teach Standard German because written communication in Switzerland is in Standard German and the language exams are also in Standard German. However, Swiss German peculiarities and everyday expressions flow organically into the lessons so you can find your way around everyday life in Zurich from the start.
I have a full schedule; is an intensive course still worthwhile?
Yes, because an intensive course brings you to a solid level in a short time. Wordculture offers flexible time models so the course fits your work routine, not the other way around. Ask us!
Can I bill the course costs through my employer?
Many employers in the Zurich area, especially international companies, often cover language course costs in full or in part after consultation. However, you must discuss this with your employer. Upon request, Wordculture will issue an official invoice and course confirmation that you can submit to your HR department.
What happens if I have to interrupt the course due to travel or illness?
Our course schedules are aligned with Zurich school holidays, and many courses pause during the holidays upon request. Talk to us when booking about your individual situation. We’ll find a pragmatic solution together so that no lessons are simply forfeited.
What language level do I need for naturalisation in Zurich?
Normally, you need German B1 orally (speaking and listening comprehension) and A2 in writing (reading and writing) in Zurich, but please check with your responsible authority.