To determine the level German language and consultation (specify a convenient day and time):
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If you plan to study in Austria, even in an English-language program, you definitely need to know German. Practice shows that not all service personnel in markets, post offices speaks English. And there is no question of entering state universities without successfully passing a language exam.
From A to C – levels of knowledge of the German language
According to the pan-European standards CEFR, three levels are distinguished: A - initial, B - intermediate, C - high. Each of them is divided into two more stages - the first and second.
Grundstufe A1: elementary level
A person knows some words, understands general outline other people's phrases, intuitively guesses vocabulary. It is possible to survive in Austria with such a base; it is enough to maintain a simple conversation, clarify directions and other everyday issues. Someone else's speech is somewhat understandable, provided that it is slow and intelligible; complex structures are very far from being understood. Fruitful learning with such skills will not work.
Grundstufe A2: “school” level of language proficiency
The basis of this level is formed on the basis of the school German language course. It gives you the opportunity to talk with an Austrian or German on simple topics and ask the seller about the product. Short simple texts and commonly used constructions are understandable, but a long conversation even in everyday life is difficult. A person is able to compose a story about himself, his country and certain aspects of life.
Mittelstufe B1: sufficient threshold level
Not bad vocabulary enough to express your thoughts, emotions and feelings, discuss educational, work or everyday issues. The conversation of local residents is clear and productive communication is possible with them. Knowledge is already enough not only to describe something, but also to express one’s point of view, express one’s views.
Mittelstufe B2: advanced threshold level of language proficiency
This level indicates that in addition to the already existing skills of free communication and understanding of language, a person has the ability to read texts in his specialty and understand terminology. It is this kind of knowledge that is enough for admission to universities in Austria: the student freely takes notes on lectures, asks questions and discusses the subject.
Oberstufe C1: high level
Or carrier level. It gives you the opportunity to work in your specialty and “be like a German,” fully participate in public events, and communicate on an equal basis with your employer. Complex texts are easily perceived and understood; there is the ability to act as a speaker on complex topics without preparation.
Oberstufe C2: professional
The level is mastered after studying directly at the workplace. Highly qualified specialists study scientific journals, give presentations, and teach at universities. They speak quickly, understand and know how to use intonations and emotional nuances of the language.
The rules of division are the same. To understand how much knowledge you already have and whether it is worth spending time and money on additional courses, you need to undergo appropriate testing. This is done with the help of online services, individual tutors or by forming language learning groups.
If the level is low, the ideal option is to apply to study at a university and go to one-year preparatory courses. You can raise the bar of knowledge for free by participating in the Au-Pair, Social Year programs or taking advantage of various offers from volunteer organizations.
Company Education in Vienna cooperates directly with universities in Austria. Our specialists know everything about German language certificates and other documents required for admission. Contact us and start building a successful future right now.