B1 German for Ausbildung or B2 - Which One Should I Learn?

If you want to undertake your career via an Ausbildung in Germany, one of the questions you probably ask yourselves is whether it makes sense to learn B1 German or go for a higher level (B2)? This topic may determine your visa procedure, employment chances and ease of adaptation to Germany. Our agency helps to figure it out.

Understand the Difference Between the Level B1 and B2

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) determines the German language levels ranging from A1 (for beginners) to C2 (advanced). In the case of the Ausbildung program, the levels of importance would be B1 and B2. Level B1 stands for intermediate level of proficiency. On B1, a student can cope with the understanding of the main ideas of clear texts and oral communication on familiar topics; he/she can describe events, experience and explain something concerning him/herself. At B2 level, a learner already masters complex texts, manages spontaneous and fluid communication, and expresses opinions freely.

What Level Does Ausbildung Actually Require?

Now, here is the most common question students ask: how high should your German be? In short, it depends on your chosen field and employer. For most Ausbildung programs in areas such as nursing, hospitality, IT, and various technical trades, B1 German is enough to obtain your visa and join the program.

However, B2 German may be recommended, and sometimes even required, for some types of Ausbildung. Specifically, B2 level is usually necessary in the fields of medicine and nursing, since they require constant interaction with patients, whose medical history and conditions may include specific terms.

Comparison Between B1 & B2

While B1 German will allow you to communicate in everyday situations, basic conversation with colleagues, and comprehension of elementary instructions, the higher B2 level will grant you additional advantages.

You will be able to actively participate in class, understand technical language faster, build good relations with your German-speaking colleagues, and better integrate into your new environment. And the funny thing is that most students start with B1 German but reach B2 soon enough thanks to the ongoing education.

Pros and Cons of Starting with B1

Starting with B1 gives you the advantage of starting your Ausbildung program earlier than if you had B2. It would take less time to get to B1 than it would B2 – which is great news if you want to start working and earning earlier.

The potential con of starting with B1 is that you’ll struggle a little bit initially. Comprehending lectures, instruction, and communication in the workplace may take some more time as you adapt.

Pros and Cons of Starting with B2

If you dedicate extra time to achieve B2 before your departure, you’ll find it much easier to adapt in the first months of your training. Your understanding will be higher, participation will be greater, and you’ll face fewer problems during those difficult beginning days.

On the flip side, it means dedicating extra time to studying German. Reaching B2 takes more time (a couple of months), which implies postponing your visa application and Ausbildung process.

Which Option Should You Choose?

If your chosen field of Ausbildung strictly requires a B2 level (like in nursing), get B2 from the very beginning. There is nothing you can do about it, as trying to obtain Ausbildung admission with B1 will inevitably result in rejections. However, if for certain fields B1 is enough for visa application, you have the following choices.

If you are among those people who are able to quickly adapt to the environment and pick up a new language relatively fast, B1 will be more than enough for your visa application. Hundreds of students do so each year.

If you prefer being well-prepared and sure of yourself before getting into a completely new country, taking some additional time and acquiring B2 level might be the best solution for your case.

BCES Admissions Abroad Assistance With Making The Right Choice

In choosing between B1 and B2, one should not simply rely on language test results. It requires knowing all the program requirements, your timeframe, and how fast you can learn. At BCES Admissions Abroad, we will give you the correct advice according to the actual requirements of your Ausbildung program in order to avoid rejection or postponement of your application. We provide guidance with each step in the process from choosing the right language course in German to preparing your application documents and visa application.

There is no universal answer to whether to use B1 or B2 for Ausbildung. The most important thing is to be in line with your program requirements and be able to cope with studying in a foreign country. It is crucial to start preparations in advance and to have regular practice in German and to keep to the set plan. Are you ready to become an Ausbildung in Germany? Contact BCES Admissions Abroad at +91 9319996330 for help with making the right decision and preparing for admission.