How much does a self-paying integration course cost? Prices 2025/2026
How much does a self-paying integration course cost?
For a general integration course there is currently a contribution of 2.29 euros per teaching unit of 45 minutes. For a total of 700 teaching units, that’s 1,603 euros.
Important: A full or partial cost exemption does not apply automatically. It must be applied for and approved by BAMF. However, if you book a private German course without BAMF approval, you should agree the price directly with the respective provider.
The costs in detail
A general integration course consists of 700 teaching units of 45 minutes each:
- 600 hours of language course (six modules from A1 to B1)
- 100 hour orientation course (law, history, culture, values)
This is how the regular cost contribution breaks down:
| part | Lessons | Regular cost contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Language course (6 modules) | 600 | 1,374 euros |
| Orientation course | 100 | 229 euros |
| Total | 700 | 1,603 euros |
Note: For a privately booked German course without BAMF approval, the price is agreed directly with the respective provider. The statutory cost contribution for the integration course does not automatically apply.
How much do the exams cost?
At the end of the integration course there are two final exams:
In practice, a DTZ certificate may show B1, A2 or an insufficient result. The level you reach depends on your performance.
- Test “Life in Germany”: Here you answer questions about law, society and history.
For people with valid BAMF eligibility to participate in an integration course, the BAMF normally pays the fees for both final examinations under its rules. Anyone taking the DTZ or the “Leben in Deutschland” test outside a funded integration course should ask the examination centre directly about possible fees.
Regular cost contribution or exemption?
Depending on your personal situation, the BAMF can grant an exemption from costs:
- Regular cost contribution: 2.29 euros per teaching unit, i.e. 1,603 euros for 700 units.
- Exemption from costs: only after application and approval by the BAMF.
- Possible reimbursement: Anyone who successfully passes the final test within the relevant BAMF deadline can apply for a refund of 50 percent of the contribution paid under the applicable conditions. The deadline is normally two years; three years apply to certain integration courses for special target groups.
- Privately booked German course without BAMF eligibility for an integration course: Price according to contract with the respective provider.
Before the course begins, clarify with the BAMF or your course provider whether you are eligible to take part in an integration course and can apply for a cost exemption.
A cheaper alternative: learn online
If a self-paying integration course is too expensive for you, you can also learn online and prepare specifically for the DTZ, telc or Goethe exams. This is significantly cheaper.
Conclusion
The general integration course costs 1,603 euros for 700 teaching units at the current rate. Before the course begins, check whether you have BAMF eligibility to participate, whether you can apply for a cost exemption and whether you meet the requirements for reimbursement later. An online course can flexibly supplement learning, but does not replace the official integration course or the official exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the contribution for a general integration course?
The contribution is currently €2.29 per 45-minute lesson. A general integration course with 700 lessons therefore costs €1,603 in total.
Can I be exempted from the contribution?
Yes, under certain conditions. The exemption is not automatic: you must apply for it, and the BAMF must approve your application.
How much do the DTZ and the “Leben in Deutschland” test cost?
For people with valid BAMF eligibility to participate in an integration course, the BAMF normally pays the fees for both final examinations under its rules. Anyone taking the exams outside a funded integration course should ask the examination centre directly about possible fees.
What language level will I reach in the integration course?
The goal is B1. In practice, a DTZ certificate may show B1, A2 or an insufficient result. B1 is normally the standard for naturalisation.
Can I get part of my contribution back?
Under the applicable conditions, you can recover 50 percent of the contribution paid if you successfully pass the final test within the relevant BAMF deadline and apply for reimbursement. The deadline is normally two years; three years apply to certain courses for special target groups.
Is there a flexible way to supplement the integration course?
Yes. An online German course can supplement your learning and preparation for the DTZ, telc or Goethe exams. It does not, however, replace an official integration course or an official examination.