Costs and next available start dates for intensive courses at two highly-rated, comparatively more affordable language schools in Munich: DeutschAkademie and TANDEM München.
German Course Start Dates and Costs in Munich (2026)
1. DeutschAkademie (Popular Budget-Friendly Choice)
DeutschAkademie’s intensive courses run for 4 weeks and allow students to complete one sub-level (e.g., A1.1, A1.2, etc.). (horizontal view on mobile)
| Course Type & Duration | Price (per 4 weeks) | Frequency & Format | Next Available Start Date (A1.1 Beginner) |
| Intensive Course (4 weeks, 3 hours/day) | Starting from €399 | Monday – Thursday, all levels (A1-C2) offered. Multiple daily time slots (e.g., 8:30 AM, 11:45 AM). | January 12, 2026 (New courses start every month) |
| Semi-Intensive (8 weeks, 3 hours/day) | Varies (check website for specific price) | Twice a week (Mon/Wed or Tue/Thu). | New courses start every month |
| Visa Course (4 weeks, 18 hours/week) | Higher price point (meets visa requirements) | Monday – Saturday, 72 hours total. | New courses start every month |
| Included in Tuition | Key Notes & User Insight |
| Included: Free online tutoring, placement test, money-back guarantee. | This school is popular for its competitive pricing and having a full course schedule that allows for a fast progression. Their intensive course generally runs a little cheaper than university or Goethe-Institut offerings. |
2. TANDEM München e.V. (Known for Quality & TANDEM Partners)
TANDEM is highly regarded for the small class sizes (max. 10 students) and communicative learning, also with unique language exchange service. (horizontal view on mobile)
| Course Type & Duration | Price (per week) | Price (for 4 weeks) | Next Available Start Date (A1.1 Beginner) |
| Intensive Course (4 weeks, 16 TU/week) | €125.00 | €500.00 + €50 service fee | January 5, 2026 (New beginner courses start every month) |
| Visa Course (18 or 20 TU/week) | €145.00 or €165.00 | Higher, to meet visa hourly requirements. | New courses start every month |
Note on Fees: Prices listed are per week for tuition. There is also a one-time service fee of €50 (which usually includes the first course book). High season fee of €20 per week applies in July and August.
| Included in Tuition | Notes & User Insight |
| Included: One-time service fee includes the first book, weekly leisure program, and the TANDEM learning partner program (major benefit for practicing German). | TANDEM is often recommended for friendly atmosphere and high-quality teaching. The price is slightly higher than the lowest budget options, but users feel the small class size and TANDEM partner make it worthwhile. |
Tip for Enrollment:
For both schools: If you have prior knowledge of German, you can often start any Monday. Complete beginners ($A1.1$) must adhere to the fixed monthly start dates listed above to begin a full course level.
10 Lesser-Known Language Academies in Munich: Affordable Options for Intensive and Evening Courses
Munich’s language learning scene thrives with intimate academies specializing in German (DaF) and other languages, offering small-group dynamics and cultural immersion for expats and locals alike. These under-the-radar spots emphasize practical skills, native instructors, and flexible formats, away from big names like Goethe. Ordered by starting price for the cheapest core offering (intensive or evening, per 4-8 weeks). Prices approximate as of November 2025 (verify on sites; free trials common). All cover A1-C2, issue certificates, and support visas for intensives. Evening courses suit professionals (2-3x/week, 18:00-21:00); intensives boost progress (20+ hours/week). Now including addresses, contacts, and separate tags for Group Lessons and Individual Lessons (private/one-to-one).
Edeltraud Sprachschule
Address: Landwehrstr. 21, 80336 München (Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, near Hauptbahnhof)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 59988868; Mobile: +49 176 56979668; Email: info@edeltraud-muc.de
Overview: Non-profit gem near the center, highlighting conversation via free meetups (brunches, hikes). Small groups, fun outings, telc/DSH prep.
Intensive Course: €317 (online, 64 hours/4 weeks, Mon-Thu mornings); €349 (in-person).
Evening Course: €349 (online, 64 hours/8 weeks, 2x/week); €365 (in-person).
Group Lessons: Yes – Small international groups (8-12), focus on interactive speaking and excursions.
Individual Lessons: Not offered (emphasis on communal learning).
Other Details: Levels A1-C2; free clubs; visa-eligible; monthly starts. Website: edeltraud-muc.de.
Sprachschule Aktiv München
Address: Heßstraße 90, 80797 München (Schwabing, central office for consultations)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 20062435 / +49 89 20062436; WhatsApp: +49 151 23982453; Email: kontakt@sprachschule-aktiv.de
Overview: Cozy Maxvorstadt spot for practical integration; telc-certified with native teachers, free trials.
Intensive Course: €279 (4 weeks, 80 hours, Mon-Fri mornings).
Evening Course: €199 (4 weeks, 32 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – 8-10 per class, including semi-intensive and online hybrids.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Flexible private tutoring for custom schedules (€40-50/hour, tailored to needs).
Other Details: Accommodation aid; rolling starts. Website: sprachschule-aktiv-muenchen.de.
DeutschAkademie München
Address: Schwanthalerstraße 10, 80336 München (near Karlsplatz/Stachus)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 59989960; Email: info@deutschakademie.de
Overview: High-rated for interactive methods and culture; suits motivated adults, 6,000+ alumni yearly.
Intensive Course: €319 (4 weeks, 75 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €159 (8 weeks, 48 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – 7-12 participants, weekend/semi-intensive options.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Custom private/company courses, arranged flexibly (€45+/hour).
Other Details: No reg fee; guarantee; hybrid; weekly starts. Website: deutschakademie.de/muenchen.
Speakeasy Language School
Address: Lindwurmstraße 109, 80337 München (near Karlsplatz, central)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 41616800; Email: info@speakeasy-munich.de
Overview: Expat hub with events (bar nights, tours); relaxed speaking focus.
Intensive Course: €399 (1 month, 100 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €199 (1 month, 24 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – 6-10 in cozy rooms, super-intensive variants.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Private sessions for non-group learners (€50-60/hour, in-person/online).
Other Details: Packages (3 months €1,059); visa support. Website: speakeasy-munich.de.
Axioma Sprachschule
Address: Türkenstraße 30, 80799 München (Maxvorstadt, near LMU/TU)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 21833100; Email: info@sprachschule-axioma.de
Overview: Uni-adjacent boutique for grammar/convo; telc center.
Intensive Course: €350 (4 weeks, 80 hours, Mon-Fri mornings, visa-eligible).
Evening Course: €220 (8 weeks, 48 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – 6-8 max, afternoon add-ons.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Private German lessons (€45/hour, TestDaF/DSH prep).
Other Details: Native teachers; monthly intakes. Website: sprachschule-axioma.de.
TANDEM München
Address: Kurfürstenplatz 5, 80796 München (Neuhausen, heart of Schwabing area)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 1891970; Email: info@tandem-muenchen.de
Overview: 30+ years in diverse courses (German + others); TestDaF center.
Intensive Course: €380 (4 weeks, 80 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €240 (12 weeks, 72 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – Max 9, weekend/grammar specials.
Individual Lessons: Yes – One-to-one or combo with group (€40-55/hour).
Other Details: Cultural events; year-round. Website: tandem-muenchen.de.
Sprachcaffe München
Address: Bauerstraße 2, 80796 München (Schwabing, near Olympic Park)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 36020890; Email: info@sprachcaffe-muenchen.com
Overview: Communicative groups (6-12); uni prep pathways, telc focus.
Intensive Course: €420 (4 weeks, 75 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €250 (8 weeks, 48 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – Standard/intensive, online/classroom.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Private/group hybrids (€50/hour, custom topics).
Other Details: Free trial; bi-weekly starts. Website: sprachcaffe-muenchen.com.
iQ Lingua Institut
Address: Orleansstraße 7, 81669 München (Haidhausen, vibrant district)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 217682586; Email: info@iq-lingua.de
Overview: Multi-language versatility; evening/weekend immersion.
Intensive Course: €450 (4 weeks, 80 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €280 (8 weeks, 64 hours, 3x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – Small motivated groups (8-10), fun interactions.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Duo/individual focused (€45-60/hour, topic-based).
Other Details: Free trial; exam prep add-ons. Website: iq-lingua.de.
Klartext Zentrum
Address: Augustenstraße 77, 80333 München (Maxvorstadt, near Theresienstraße U-Bahn)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 5232940 / +49 89 540469820; Email: info@klartext-zentrum.de
Overview: Integration-oriented for evenings; B1+ focus, community vibes.
Intensive Course: €480 (4 weeks, 100 hours, Mon-Fri, integration variant).
Evening Course: €300 (8 weeks, 60 hours, 3x/week, A1-B1).
Group Lessons: Yes – Supportive classes (8-12), work-related.
Individual Lessons: Yes – Tailored privates for job/exam prep (€40+/hour).
Other Details: Subsidized; telc integration; monthly. Website: klartext-zentrum.de.
Primus Fremdsprachen Institut
Address: Amalienstraße 62, 80799 München (Maxvorstadt, near University U-Bahn)
Contact: Phone: +49 89 281888; Email: info@primus-muenchen.de
Overview: Adult-focused immersion; business German, Abitur prep.
Intensive Course: €500 (4 weeks, 80 hours, Mon-Fri).
Evening Course: €320 (8 weeks, 48 hours, 2x/week).
Group Lessons: Yes – Max 8, compact/evening formats.
Individual Lessons: Yes – One-to-one for business/specialized needs (€50/hour).
Other Details: Customized company; year-round. Website: primus-muenchen.de.
(horizontal view on mobile)
| Academy | Cheapest Starting Price | Intensive Price (4 weeks) | Evening Price (8 weeks) | Group Size | Key Perks | Group Lessons | Individual Lessons |
| Edeltraud | €317 | €317-€349 | €349-€365 | 8-12 | Free events, non-profit | Yes | No |
| Sprachschule Aktiv | €199 | €279 | €199 | 8-10 | Free trial, central | Yes | Yes |
| DeutschAkademie | €159 | €319 | €159 | 10-12 | Guarantee, hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| Speakeasy | €199 | €399 | €199 | 6-10 | Social outings | Yes | Yes |
| Axioma | €220 | €350 | €220 | 6-8 | Near unis, visa | Yes | Yes |
| TANDEM | €240 | €380 | €240 | Max 9 | Multi-language | Yes | Yes |
| Sprachcaffe | €250 | €420 | €250 | 6-12 | Uni pathways | Yes | Yes |
| iQ Lingua | €280 | €450 | €280 | 8-10 | Flexible timings | Yes | Yes |
| Klartext | €300 | €480 | €300 | 8-12 | Integration focus | Yes | Yes |
| Primus | €320 | €500 | €320 | Max 8 | Business options | Yes | Yes |
These spots deliver quality affordably (4.5+ ratings typical). Add €50-100 for books. Placement tests recommended -enroll for winter starts!
How Users describe their Experiences
“It was an amazing experience! If you’re thinking about learning German, especially in the immersive way, you have to check out Munich.
From day one, it felt less like “studying” and more like just… living in German. My course was immersive, which meant we were speaking German from the minute we walked in. It wasn’t just grammar (though we did that too, don’t worry!), but a lot of talking, role-playing, and actually using the language in real scenarios. The teachers were fantastic, really patient and fun, and they always encouraged us to just go for it, even if we messed up.
And being in Munich? Total game-changer. The city is just so cool, with its mix of traditional Bavarian stuff and a modern vibe. After classes, you’re literally surrounded by German speakers everywhere – in the bakeries, at the markets, in the parks. It’s like your brain is always in “German mode,” and you pick up so much without even trying. I was grabbing coffee and ordering Brezeln in German, asking for directions, and just listening to conversations around me. It really sped up my learning way more than I ever expected.
Plus, the social side was awesome. I met so many cool people from all over the world who were also there to learn German. My school organized some fun activities too, like museum visits or beer garden outings (obviously, had to do that in Munich!), which were perfect for practicing German in a relaxed setting and making new friends.
If you want to really kickstart your German and have an unforgettable experience, an immersive course in Munich is it. I came back feeling so much more confident and excited about speaking German. Highly, highly recommend!”
Accommodation Experience
“Now, let’s talk about where to stay, because that’s important, right? My school actually hooked me up with a few options, which was a lifesaver. I ended up staying with a host family and if you want full immersion, this is it! It was a single room, super comfy, and I got breakfast and dinner with them. It was awesome to practice German over meals and just see how a German family lives. For that, you’re looking at about €360-€460 a week for a single room with breakfast or half board – totally worth it for the extra practice!
Some of my classmates went for shared student apartments, which were also pretty cool if you want more independence. They usually have single rooms, a shared kitchen and bathroom, and you’re self-catering. Prices for those seem to hover around €360 a week for a single room – a bit more freedom, you know? A few even went for private studio apartments for ultimate privacy, which were a bit pricier, like €470 a week, but you get your own little spot with a kitchen and bathroom.”
Certified German Courses in Munich offered by University
Here is the information you need about German language courses at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), costs and certificates
German Language Course Fees and Certificates at LMU Munich
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) sells structured German language courses, mostly through programs affiliated with its academic centres, which maintain subsidized pricing (particularly for those with a direct link to the university). There is a distinction between the longer semester-based courses and intensive preparatory options. For example, a semester-long German language evening course, running twice a week for thirteen weeks (total of 52 teaching hours), costs approximately €195.00. This fee is common across various affiliated programs and is extremely competitive rate for the number of academic-level instruction hours provided. To get the formal LMU certificate with grade and up to 6 ECTS credit points, participants must meet strict academic requirements like regular active participation (with maximum allowed absence), consistent completion of homework, giving short presentation and successfully passing the final course exam.
For students requiring faster, more intensive preparation, LMU-affiliated providers sells shorter, high-intensity modules. The four-week intensive course with 80 lessons costs around €480.00. Again, for officially registered students like those on the Erasmus+ or LMU-exchange programs, the subsidy of approximately €50.00 is typically available, lowering the net cost. The Deutsch-Uni Online (DUO) platform, which was developed at LMU and is highly recommended by the university, sells extensive online modules with flexible pricing. Full, tutored courses on DUO range with many course modules priced from around €150.00 to €375.00 depending on the intensity and duration. DUO courses, often spanning three months, also offer the opportunity to earn ECTS credit points and receive university-affiliated certificate after successful completion of the curriculum and final assessment.
Free and Certified Options at LMU
Regarding the combined goal of free course with a certificate, the policy at LMU and its partner institutions is primarily focused on supporting enrolled students. Students officially registered at LMU, especially those in the exchange or degree program, are the most likely group to receive access to German language training that is completely free of charge and culminates in official, certified LMU diploma with ECTS credits. For instance, certain intensive online learning modules on the affiliated DUO platform were historically offered free of charge to eligible exchange students for three-month duration. External learners who are not officially matriculated students, however, generally must pay the subsidized course fees to access the structured tuition and earn a certificate.
Language Practice: Explore the Free Language Exchange Meet-ups in Munich
Munich’s diverse expat and international community makes it a hotspot for casual, no-cost language exchanges – think casual chats over coffee, beers, or walks, where you swap your native tongue for German (or vice versa). These are perfect for all levels (A1-C2), often multilingual (English, German, Spanish, French, etc.), and focus on fun over structure. Most are organized via Meetup.com, Facebook, or apps like Tandem, with small to large groups (10-100+ attendees). Venues rotate (bars, parks, cafes), and many include icebreakers or themes. As of November 2025, check apps/websites for latest schedules – events run weekly or bi-weekly, rain or shine. Pro tip: Bring a drink to share, and use apps for RSVPs to connect pre-meetup. Here’s a curated list of 10 active, truly free options (no fees, just buy-your-own drinks/food). prioritized for variety, recency, and popularity based on group sizes and reviews.
Munich Sprachcafé
Description: Weekly casual chats in German, English, Spanish, and more – mix-and-mingle format with native speakers. Great for beginners; themes like “travel stories” keep it lively.
Frequency: Every Friday, 7-10 PM.
Location: Rotating cafes in city center (e.g., near Marienplatz); check Meetup for weekly spot.
Group Size: 20-50.
How to Join: Meetup.com group (1,000+ members). Free entry.
Link: Munich Sprachcafé on Meetup
Language Exchange Munich
Description: Informal tandem-style meetups for practicing any language; split into pairs/groups by level/interest. Focus on conversation, with optional games.
Frequency: Bi-weekly, Saturdays 6-9 PM.
Location: English Garden or nearby beer gardens (outdoor-friendly).
Group Size: 15-40.
How to Join: RSVP via Meetup; no host fees.
Link: Language Exchange Munich on Meetup
Munich International Social Activities (Expats Group)
Description: Broad expat network with dedicated language nights – chat in English/German while exploring Munich’s culture (e.g., pub crawls with vocab twists).
Frequency: Weekly, Wednesdays 8 PM onward.
Location: Central bars like Augustiner-Keller.
Group Size: 50-100+.
How to Join: Join the massive Meetup group (13,000+ members) and filter for “language.”
Link: Munich Expats on Meetup
German Conversation Club Munich
Description: Native-led practice sessions for German learners; topics from daily life to debates. All levels welcome, with helpers for shy speakers.
Frequency: Every two weeks, Sundays 5 PM.
Location: Online via Zoom or in-person at Villa Kunterbunt (Oselstr. 34).
Group Size: 10-30.
How to Join: Meetup RSVP; hybrid format.
Link: German Conversation Club on Meetup
Language Tandem Group
Description: Pair-based exchanges for 1:1 practice, evolving into group hangs. Multilingual (German-English-others); app-integrated for follow-ups.
Frequency: Monthly in-person, plus ongoing online.
Location: Schwabing cafes or parks.
Group Size: 10-25.
How to Join: Meetup group (2,700+ members); message organizers for matches.
Link: Language Tandem Group on Meetup
Munich Language Club
Description: International socials with free language practice – rotate tables for quick swaps (English, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Arabic). Post-work vibe.
Frequency: Every Wednesday, 7-10 PM.
Location: Lindwurmstraße 139a (Käppchen Burgergrill) or WhatsApp-announced spots.
Group Size: 30-60.
How to Join: WhatsApp group for updates; walk-ins OK.
Link: Munich Language Club on Meetup
BlaBla Language Exchange Munich
Description: Fun, Couchsurfing-style events: Form groups by language, switch freely. Themes like “food vocab” with snacks.
Frequency: Monthly, plus pop-ups (e.g., Fridays).
Location: Central venues like public parks or hostels.
Group Size: 20-50.
How to Join: Facebook group or BlaBla app; organizers pair you.
Link: BlaBla Munich on Facebook
Language Bazaar München
Description: “Marketplace” of languages – shop around tables for chats in your target tongue. Acoustic-friendly spots; all welcome.
Frequency: Bi-monthly, evenings (e.g., first Friday).
Location: Quiet cafes in Haidhausen.
Group Size: 15-35.
How to Join: Meetup sign-up; bring a name tag.
Link: Language Bazaar on Meetup
Goethe-Institut Tandem Program
Description: Free online/offline pairings for German exchanges with global learners. Forums for matching; casual meets encouraged.
Frequency: Ongoing (self-scheduled); monthly virtual events.
Location: Goethe-Institut Munich (or online via “Deutsch für dich” platform).
Group Size: 1:1 pairs, up to small groups.
How to Join: Register on their portal; prior language knowledge needed.
Link: Goethe Tandem Program
Chatternacht Munich – Alternative German Learning Night
Description: Nighttime twist on exchanges: Themed chats (e.g., “Munich myths”) with a relaxed, after-dark feel. Multilingual, creative crowd.
Frequency: Monthly, late evenings (9 PM start).
Location: Alternative spots like indie bars in Glockenbachviertel.
Group Size: 20-40.
How to Join: Meetup group (1,500+ members).
Link: Chatternacht on Meetup
(horizontal view on mobile)
| Meetup Name | Frequency | Typical Time | Location Type | Group Size | Languages Focus |
| Munich Sprachcafé | Weekly (Fri) | 7-10 PM | Cafes | 20-50 | German, English, Spanish |
| Language Exchange Munich | Bi-weekly (Sat) | 6-9 PM | Parks | 15-40 | Any |
| Munich International Social Activities | Weekly (Wed) | 8 PM+ | Bars | 50-100+ | English, German |
| German Conversation Club | Bi-weekly (Sun) | 5 PM | Hybrid | 10-30 | German |
| Language Tandem Group | Monthly | Evenings | Cafes | 10-25 | Multilingual |
| Munich Language Club | Weekly (Wed) | 7-10 PM | Bars | 30-60 | English, German, Spanish+ |
| BlaBla Language Exchange | Monthly | Evenings | Parks/Hostels | 20-50 | Any |
| Language Bazaar | Bi-monthly | Evenings | Cafes | 15-35 | Any |
| Goethe Tandem Program | Ongoing | Flexible | Online/In-person | 1:1+ | German + others |
| Chatternacht Munich | Monthly | 9 PM+ | Bars | 20-40 | German, creative |
Quick Tips for Getting Started
Apps for More: Download Tandem (free app with 2,900+ Munich users for virtual/in-person matches) or MyLanguageExchange.com for 1:1 pairings.
Join Reddit’s r/Munich for pop-up alerts (e.g., Sunday clubs).
Etiquette: Be punctual, respectful of levels, and reciprocal—half time in each language.
Safety: Public spots, but meet in groups first; women-only subgroups exist on Meetup.
Winter Note: November events may shift indoors – follow WhatsApp/Facebook for updates.
These keep your skills sharp without spending a euro. Spot a new one? Search Meetup for “Munich language free” monthly!
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