Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Language Centre

FAQ – Pre-Semester Intensive Course (DaF)


Who can sign up, and how can I register for the course?

Only Incoming exchange students at HU can register online on our website, using the password you received in the welcome e-mail from the International Office (Abteilung Internationales). Just choose the course period you are interested in and click on „Online registration“. Successful online registration does not grant you student status nor eligibility to enrol at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin!


How is the Pre-Semester Intensive Course (DaF) structured?

The German courses consist of 5 contact hours (45 min) every morning from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., resulting in 95-100 contact hours in total. A minimum participation of 80% and participation in all class tests is required to obtain the full 7 ECTS points certificate.


What levels do you teach, and how do you determine students' level of German?

We offer classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced (A1.1-C1/C2). A placement test on the first day of the course helps us assess your level of German. Participants will be placed based on the results of this test. 


Can I transfer the credits of the German course to my home university?

The transferability of ECTS credits acquired during the German course is determined by your home university standards. Consult your home university regarding credit transferability before you register.


Is a subsequent change of class possible?

On the basis of your test result on the first day you will be placed in a German course. However, if the class level does not match your abilities, a change of class can be discussed with the teacher in the first couple of days.


How do I apply for a visa, and what are the fees?

If you need a visa, we can issue you a visa invitation for you. An invitation can be requested during the registration period. It can be sent to you by email free of charge. Please do not pay for the course until you get your visa: We can extend your payment deadline if you need to wait for a visa, please get in touch.


What is included in the course fee?

The course fee includes tuition, teaching materials/books, participation in cultural activities in the afternoon, and a final certificate.


How do I pay?

Course fees can only be paid by bank transfer and in EUR. Payment in installments is not possible. Also, please enquire with your bank if they charge fees for international transfers - if so, you need to pay those on top of the course fee so that the correct amount is still credited to our account. Further details can be found under "payment information" on the course page.


When do I have to pay, and what if I have to cancel?

The course fee must be credited to our bank account within three weeks after registration. Otherwise your registration will be canceled. If you have to wait for a visa, please get in touch - we can extend your payment deadline. If you have cancel the course, we will reimburse you the full cost of the course, subject to a processing fee of 50 EUR. For further information check fees and expenses on the course page.


How can I prepare for the German course?

Read up on German culture and language in advance. Refresh your language skills through self-study (online language training, German television, German podcasts)! However, comprehensive preparation for the German course is not mandatory.


Is Berlin a safe place?

Berlin is generally a safe city. Nevertheless, you should know the places with a high crime rate: Alexanderplatz, "Kleiner Tiergarten", the stations: Nollendorfplatz, Görlitzer Park, Warschauer Brücke, Kottbusser Tor and Hermannplatz. In general, you are advised not to visit parks and squares alone at night, use caution when using drugs and alcohol, don't accept drugs or alcohol  offered to you by strangers, watch your drinks in bars, and don't get into a car with strangers. Pay attention to your valuables in public! Please also note the information supplied by Berlin police.