For doctors: How long does it take to learn the German language?

• What do you mean by “learn a language”?

There are many levels of language. People do not even speak their mother language perfectly. Some did a Ph.D. in your mother language, are you better than them in grammar and pronunciation? Probably not.

The European languages are divided into many levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2). If you are a mother speaker of a language, finished high school, and did a language exam based on the above classification, you will probably reach the C1 level (or C2 level).

One of the important steps in applying for the German permanent medical license (🇩🇪 Approbation) is getting at least a B2 certificate in the German language (the other required documents are here).

• How long does it take to reach the B2 level?

Assuming that you did not speak a German word in your life, then the answer depends on a few things:

(1) How many hours can you learn per day?

Many learn German during the internship year. Do you need to work every day? Can you learn during the work?

(2) Are you learning in a good institute?

With a teacher, it is probably quicker to learn a language. Plus you have discipline because there are always exams and homework to do.

(3) Do you enjoy learning languages? Are you a sociable person?

Having a passion for learning could dramatically quicken your learning process. If you find German friends and were able to take part in events with Germans, then you will learn more.

(4) Are you learning in or outside Germany?

Learning in Germany is probably better, but the living costs are here around 600-1000 Euro per month. We suggest finishing the language in your home country. I think that living with your parents will give you a lot of comfort and time to study.

(5) Can you speak good English?

German has many similarities to the English language. If you know a lot of English vocabulary, that will help you a lot. We explained this in the following article:

• So, how many months do I need to reach the B2 level?

Taking the above factors all into consideration, then you met most of them, then probably 6–7 months. If you learned like 2–4 hours a day and are good at English, maybe 8–10 months. If you are doing it slowly, then 10–12 months.

• How many months do I need to reach the C1 level?

For this level, you simply need more vocabulary, more fluency in speaking and to learn a bit more grammar. So, 2-4 months extra.

• Tips for doctors to learn German quicker

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