German C1 Course

A German C1 course is an advanced German language course, intended for learners who have progressed beyond everyday conversation. At German C1 level, you'll learn to become truly proficient with the language. By the time you earn your certificate, you'll understand complex texts and comfortably engage in in-depth discussions.

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With a German C1 Course you’ll understand demanding texts easily and be able to present complicated information in a clear, concise way. We’ll introduce you to the lesson structure and let you know a bit more about the process of learning German with Lingoda. Take our CEFR Test to ensure this course is the right one for you and get started with interactive, online courses available 24/7, with native-level speakers to encourage and guide you along the way. Whatever your level of fluency, we’ve got a course to suit you.

Have a look at Lingoda’s German Online Courses: Intensive German Courses, Immersive German Courses, German Private 1:1 Courses, German Conversation Courses, German Evening Classes for busy people, German Grammar Courses, German Reading Courses.

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C1 Level German Overview

When you’ve completed the C1 level German course you will be able to confidently:

Understand a wide range of long, challenging texts and find implicit meanings within

Spontaneously express yourself without having to search for vocabulary

Effectively use the German language with friends, colleagues, or teachers during training and studies

Make clear, structured and detailed statements on complex topics

Apply various means of text association

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From B2 to C1 German Course: the main differences

The transition from B2 to C1 in German language learning is crucial. At the B2 level, you are able to grasp the essential points of complex texts and understand both concrete and abstract topics; you can also understand technical conversations relating to your field of specialization. With B2 you can express your opinion on a wide range of topics, explain your point of view on current issues, and indicate the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

At C1 level, you will be able to understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and understand implicit meaning. In the Advanced German C1 course, you will also be able to use the language effectively and flexibly in social and professional situations, in training courses and university courses. In addition, you will also become familiar with more "formal" language, such as that used in public administration offices.

Our teachers do more than teach the basics of grammar and vocabulary, particularly at this advanced level. The focus is on useful conversational topics that appeal to your interests, careers and day-to-day lives so you can start using what you've learned straight away. Of course, we have a learning plan, but our teachers interact with you at every stage, to create an immersive learning environment.

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Deepen your German knowledge at an Advanced level with Lingoda Sprint

The C1 German course can be challenging, staying on track is key! Therefore, spending your time profitably and having a concrete goal changes the game's rules.

If you need to learn German quickly we have incentivized cash back programs. You commit to a certain level of learning: in the Sprint class you can take up to fifteen classes a month, while in the Super Sprint you can take 30 classes a month. If you stick to your commitment you can receive cash-back. Remember there are classes morning, noon and night to help you reach your goal.

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Group and individual learning opportunities

When you sign up for a Lingoda C1 German course, you can decide whether you want individual 1:1 teaching, or team up with up to five other students from around the world. We like to keep groups small so that your teacher can engage with you on a personal level.

You'll practice speaking and receive personalized corrections on pronunciation or mistakes (which we're all bound to make when we're learning). Learning in small groups gives you more time to practice reading aloud, conversing with other learners, or even just listening to the group interact.

If you've got a more specific need, like you want help with a professional letter or document, you can purchase extra credits and spend them on private classes that are tailored directly to your need.

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Learn about analogies and discuss different old and new musical instruments. You will practise talking about traditional and classical music.

In this chapter of our German C1 course, you will read about techno culture in Berlin and how it played an important role in unifying the city. You will also read about the neurological effects of learning how to play music, and music aesthetics.

You will review how to reproduce someone else’s speech and the ‘Konjunktiv I’. You will also have the chance to get some advanced practice.

Practise speaking about stream of consciousness writing and about the classic text Sisyphos. You will learn about the story behind the most famous fairy tale writers in history: the Grimm brothers and you will talk about a famous German philosopher and linguist: Wilhelm von Humboldt.

In this chapter, you will read a text about a very important historical period of German literature: the so-called “”Sturm und Drang””.
You will also read an excerpt of Kant’s famous text “”Beantwortung der Frage: Was ist Aufklärung?””

In addition, you will learn how to talk about future in the past, that is: how to talk from a past perspective about something that will happen later. Learn about apologising and admitting fault.

Practise speaking about sleep and the creation of memories. You will also talk about the Big Bang theory, which is nowadays the predominant theory of the universe.

In this chapter, you will read about the perception of time and the controversial status of psychoanalysis as a science and an excerpt from the beginning of ‘Die Verwandlung’ by Franz Kafka.

In addition, you will review how to build counterfactual sentences with ‘hätte’, as well as the particularities of combining it with modal verbs and using it in subordinate clauses. You will also practise expressing regrets, wishes and criticism.

Practise how to talk about art and art history by talking about Romantic art and, in particular, Caspar David Friedrich. You will also talk about art and art history by reading a text about Vincent Van Gogh.

Moreoever, you will talk about the transition from silent to talking film and about early animation and animated film.

In this chapter, you will read a text by Friedrich Nietzsche on the concept of the artist and the experience of creating, the “”Rausch”” or frenzy.

In addition, you will learn how to build and when to use the nominal style in German. You will also learn about negotiating and dealing with conflict.

Practise talking about the concept of self-image. You will also speak about inspiring figures like Mahatma Gandhi and you will talk about inspiring events, like being able to climb Mount Everest.

In this chapter, you will read about Albert Einstein, human genealogy and some poetry.

In addition, you will practise how to master the modal particles in German. You will also practise speculating and deducing.

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Try 4 lessons from our German C1 Course

Our C1 German language courses are designed for students who already master both vocabulary and grammar and need to deepen their studies with advanced knowledge of German language (both for university and for the working purposes). If you have a solid understanding of German language, sign up for our free trial period to join group classes and try out some of our C1 German lessons. This is a great way to see what an Intermediate German course looks like at Lingoda.

Techno culture in Berlin

(C1)

Take part in the discussion about the Berlin techno scene and the social role of creative, young people in the society

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Expressing regrets and criticisms

(C1)

This lesson is about how to use a wide range of idioms to express wishes and regrets.

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Making presentations and speeches

(C1)

Learn structures, locutions and vocabulary to make a proper presentation and speech at work.

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Company culture in Germany

(C1)

Let's talk about German company culture and use useful vocabs and expressions in a German office.

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Main German Language Exams
With the help of the A1 and A2 level German courses provided by Lingoda, you will be able to successfully prepare for a German language exam. Our courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), a system that is internationally recognized and in accordance with the levels needed for the German language exams. By following the courses provided by Lingoda, you will be able to receive an A1 German language certificate and further prepare for the higher-level exams.

DSH

TestDaF

Goethe Institut

Name

DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

Test DaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)

Goethe-Zertifikat

Levels

From B2 to C1

From B1 to C2

Validity

Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Price Range

100-150€

125-175€

120-295€

DSH

Name

DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

Levels

From B2 to C1

Validity

Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Price Range

100-150€

TestDaF

Name

Test DaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)

Levels

From B2 to C1

Validity

Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Price Range

125-175€

Goethe Institut

Name

Goethe-Zertifikat

Levels

From B1 to C2

Validity

Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Price Range

120-295€

German C1 language for Advanced students:

Tips and tricks for learning C1 German level:

It's time to start talking, writing and thinking like a native-speaker. Check out these articles dedicated to the advanced level of the German language

Applying for German citizenship

The application process for getting German citizenship, including language and residency requirements.

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Applying for permanent residency in Germany? Get all the language and document requirements

Here’s how to ace your job interview in Germany (in German)

Useful tips to have a successful job interview in a German Speaking Country.

Applying for German citizenship

The application process for getting German citizenship, including language and residency requirements.

How to get permanent residency in Germany

Applying for permanent residency in Germany? Get all the language and document requirements

Here’s how to ace your job interview in Germany (in German)

Useful tips to have a successful job interview in a German Speaking Country.

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If you’re considering a German C1 level course you are a very proficient speaker already. Perhaps you’ve already got your B2 certificate. Or you might not know your level of German, which is absolutely fine. When you enrol as a student with Lingoda, you can take our completely CEFR test that will let us understand your grasp of the language. Once we know that, we can help recommend the right level course for you. Generally speaking, C1 level is considered advanced.

Our mission at Lingoda is to make language learning accessible to everyone around the world. No matter how busy they are! This is also reflected in the range of courses we have on offer. We have courses to suit every level of learner, from A1 beginner through to C1, native-level speakers.

To receive a C1 German qualification you need to complete the 50 lessons. Once you’ve done so, you’ll receive a certificate acknowledging your achievement. Our syllabus is aligned with the CEFR which means this certificate will be recognized by employers, educational settings and further afield.

How quickly you make your way through the course depends on the work and time you’re willing to put in. The best way to see real results is to commit to making your lessons a habit. If you take five lessons per week, you’ll be complete in just ten weeks. Or you can tackle the classes at a slower pace of one lesson per week and spread your learning out over twelve months.

If time is of the essence in your language learning journey, a Sprint or Super Sprint option might be what you’re after. Here you’ll commit to a certain number of classes per month. If you’re successful in completing your Sprint, you can earn up to 100% cashback. If that doesn’t encourage your learning we don’t know what will! Just make sure you’re committed in your classes, ask questions and engage. Taking control of your learning will help you learn quickly.

Lots of German universities require proof of proficiency before they will accept you as a student – much like citizenship requires proof of B1 fluency, at least. To study for a Bachelor’s degree in Germany, you must have a minimum of C1. All universities in Germany will recognize and accept a Telc C1 qualification – though they will also accept some other forms. It is always worth communicating your level with the university, as they will be able to offer guidance.

Lingoda is very different from a language learning app – we’re a language learning school, but a virtual one! So when you start your German course online for C1 proficiency you’ll be taking teacher-led classes with native-level speakers from around the world. The interactive classes help strengthen essential speaking and listening skills, tackle real-life situations and incorporate more detailed and technical language, with all-important personalized feedback to guide you on your journey towards fluency.

No, you don’t. You make your own schedule! The beauty of Lingoda is that it fits around you and your life. You can choose which lesson to jump on, and the time of that lesson can change daily to fit around work, socializing and all your other commitments.

Read all FAQs

What is a German C1 course?

A German C1 course is designed for advanced learners who have significant experience using the language. Lingoda’s language courses are all structured in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and the German C1 level is the fifth level of this framework, following on from the B2 level.

By taking a German C1 course online, you’ll develop the necessary skills to have in-depth discussions about complicated topics and you’ll also be able to read and understand complex texts. It’s the point in language acquisition where you’ll become comfortable expressing yourself spontaneously, without reaching to find the right words.

At the C1 level, German learners can produce clear, detailed and well-structured text. You’ll also have the ability to use the language in professional and academic settings, like during job interviews or at university.

Is C1 German difficult?

Rather than being difficult, it’s more accurate to say reaching C1 level requires a strong commitment and dedication to learning. With the right attitude and the right time investment, most people can gradually improve their German language skills and eventually reach the skill level required to take a C1 German course online.

With that said, it’s an advanced level of learning and represents the point at which a person becomes truly proficient and fluent in the language. A C1 course is a great option if you’ve already spent significant time learning German, have a strong understanding of grammar and are able to form and use complex sentences.

To study a German C1 course online with Lingoda, you should already be at the B2 (upper-intermediate) level.

If you’re unsure of your current language level, our placement test can help.

Can I learn German C1 by myself?

The best way to learn German is with a qualified teacher, in a structured course, like those offered by Lingoda. A native-level teacher will be able to correct your mistakes and provide you with useful feedback. If you try to learn entirely on your own, you may embed bad habits, including incorrect pronunciation or grammar.

An online class provides a supportive environment where you can practice speaking out loud and having realistic conversations. The other learners on the course will all be at the same level of language learning you are, meaning you can all support each other and communicate with confidence.

Nevertheless, independent learning has a significant role to play too. You can certainly learn up to German C1 from Lingoda and supplement this learning with additional study in your spare time. In particular, it can help to try to immerse yourself in the language via travel, listening to German songs, or watching German TV shows and films.

What do you learn in a German C1 online course?

When you take the C1 German course online from Lingoda, you’ll learn to take your language skills to the level of true proficiency. By the time you earn your certificate, you’ll be able to speak German spontaneously, without having to search for the right words. You’ll also be able to write and read complex texts.

Some of the specific topics covered in the German C1 course from Lingoda include:

How to talk in-depth about music and literature.
How to discuss complex concepts, like self-image and the Big Bang theory.
How to read German poetry and German texts about science.

How much does a German C1 course cost?

The exact price you’ll pay for your C1 course will depend on the number of classes you commit to and whether you select group classes or private 1-to-1 classes. Classes are 60 minutes long and the only equipment you’ll need is the free Zoom app.

You can try Lingoda risk-free using our 7-day free trial. During this time, you can take up to three group classes, or a single 1-to-1 class. If you cancel your plan during the trial period, you won’t be charged.

All transactions are SSL encrypted for your peace of mind and if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can request a refund within 14 days and you’ll be reimbursed for any classes you did not complete.

Can I learn C1 German in a year?

It’s possible to reach C1 German level in a year with Lingoda, but it requires dedication and significant time investment.

When looking at how long it takes to learn German more generally, the C1 level requires around 750 hours of study. At a rate of 20 lessons per week with Lingoda, this is achievable within one year.

It should be noted that consistent learning with a structured course will give you the best possible chance of achieving this goal. It may also be a good idea to learn German using our Sprint course, which is designed for rapid progress.

Let’s go! Choose your German level:

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German C1 Course

C1 Level German Overview

From B2 to C1 German Course: the main differences

Deepen your German knowledge at an Advanced level with Lingoda Sprint

Group and individual learning opportunities

Sample chapters in our German C1 Course

Try 4 lessons from our German C1 Course

German C1 language for Advanced students:

What is a German C1 course?

Is C1 German difficult?

Can I learn German C1 by myself?

What do you learn in a German C1 online course?

How much does a German C1 course cost?

Can I learn C1 German in a year?

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