Learning German can be a challenge. The language is quite different from English, and it can be difficult to master all aspects of it. Moreover, if you decide to take courses or learn with a tutor, it can also be quite a costly process, and not everyone has a budget for that.
Fortunately, there are ways to start learning German without spending even a cent. Today, in the times of the internet and social media, there are many options available to you. Online platforms, YouTube videos, and free libraries are just a start.
Whether you are considering learning German for personal or professional reasons, there is a free method that will work for you.
In the article below, we want to show you seven of the best and most simple methods to learn German for free. Regardless of whether you prefer online or traditional learning methods, you can find something suitable here. Read on!
Learn German with Langster
Learn German with Langster
Language Apps
There are a number of different language apps that you can use to learn German for free. They can help you improve your reading skills, boost your vocabulary, master complex grammar points, or even work on your speaking skills.
Many good apps have fun and interactive lessons to help you learn, as well as exercises for learners on different levels, which allows you to grow. Some provide bite-sized German lessons, while others have whole courses for every German level.
When using such apps, there are several tips to follow in order to get the most out of them.
- Set aside time each day to complete the exercises. Study regularly in pretty equal chunks to help reinforce what you've learned and build on your current knowledge.
- If you find yourself struggling with a particular exercise, take a break and come back to it later. Don't overwork – this will help you avoid exhaustion and burnout and stay interested in the process.
- Review previously learned material on a regular basis so that you don't forget it and refresh your knowledge.
Language learning apps can be perfect for all kinds of learners. They are great for people who want to learn German on their own, without having to attend classes or meet with a tutor. However, they are also perfect for people who want to supplement their existing learning methods with some extra practice.
Note that some German-learning apps are completely free to use, while others might have limited free content and require a subscription, so look for something that fits your needs and budget.
Online Platforms
You can also learn German online on learning platforms – this can be another great way to improve your language skills without spending money or leaving your home. This will be a great option for everyone who prefers learning on their PC instead of smartphones.
The great thing about such platforms is that you can find lessons and exercises on all levels, from beginner to advanced. Many of them offer quizzes, tests, and games to help you learn in a fun and interactive way.
One such online platform is Duolingo. This is a great site to start with, as it offers lessons for learners on all levels. The lessons are interactive, engaging, and fun – perfect for people who want to learn German in a stress-free manner.
Deutsche Welle – Learn German is another great place for learning German. It offers a wealth of free content for all levels, from beginner to advanced. The lessons are well-structured and engaging, and the exercises are varied and interesting.
What's more, Deutsche Welle offers a range of different materials for learners, such as grammar explanations, videos, texts, and audio recordings. This makes it a great one-stop-shop for all your language needs. And, if that's not enough, the platform also offers a number of different tools to help you improve your language skills.
These are only two of the many good choices, though. If you want to give German-learning web platforms a try, make sure to visit a few of them to see which one suits you best.
Social Media Channels
Social media is an unorthodox way to learn German, but it can be very successful if you use it correctly.
You can always start with Facebook – here, you can find a number of different pages and groups that are dedicated to learning German or language exchange programs. These are usually run by native speakers who speak German as their mother tongue, so they can help you improve your pronunciation and fluency in no time.
Instagram is another good option – here, you will find plenty of channels full of informational content and fun exercises that can help you quickly improve your skills in any area where you might be struggling with German.
Finally, TikTok is starting to grow its popularity as not just a recreational, but also an educational app. Many German teachers and native speakers run German-learning profiles there, where information is offered in brief, engaging videos. Here, you can learn new German vocabulary as well as figure out some important grammar rules completely for free.
With social media, all you need is to find a good profile that offers you help to learn German. Free lessons can differ a lot, though, so it’s important to pay attention to their quality. Make sure to watch a few videos on the channel and read comments as research, and don’t hesitate to drop the channel if it doesn’t fulfill your expectations.
YouTube
With YouTube, you gain access to a wealth of high-quality, informative videos. Most of these videos come from experienced educators or people who speak the language fluently, which ensures that you're getting lessons from only the best sources.
YouTube can be an excellent resource for people who want to learn German quickly and effectively – and completely free of charge. You can find a variety of different videos on all levels, from beginner to advanced, dedicated to different topics from German grammar and vocabulary to culture, slang, politics, and more.
Some look like regular lessons in class, and others take the form of presentations or animated videos. Everyone can find something for themselves, but if you don't know where to start, here's our list of the top YouTube German channels.
Libraries
If you prefer to learn German in a more traditional manner, there are tons of great resources available for free.
Lots of public libraries have sections dedicated just to languages and learning foreign ones in particular. These are often stocked with books and other materials that will help you improve your German skills from the comfort of your own home.
Public libraries often also have a wealth of online resources that you can access from the comfort of your own home. This can be anything from language-learning software to e-books and audiobooks in German.
Language Exchange Programs
There are many websites out there that allow you to meet with other people for language exchange purposes. This can be a great way to start speaking German, improve your fluency and pronunciation, as well as get a deeper understanding of the culture and the people – all through real-life conversations.
You can chat with other people online, write letters, or even meet with language exchange groups in your area. However, be sure to do your research before signing up. There are many scams out there, so it's important to find a reputable page that has been verified by other users.
Sometimes, you can also find a language exchange partner at your own school. Look for someone who will be willing to help you learn the language in return for you helping them with their English. It can be a great opportunity to make new friends and socialize!
If you're looking for a more formal way to learn German, universities and language schools sometimes offer free exchange programs. They allow you to go to Germany and study in a German school for free (and often with a scholarship). However, this approach will still require you to spend money while living in another country, so it won't suit everyone's budget.
Free On-Site Classes
Finally, there are still free on-site classes today. Free German courses are often offered by universities, colleges, or other educational institutions, and these are perfect if you prefer to study in a more formal atmosphere.
To find out if there are any free German classes near you, it's best to do a quick online search. You can easily find a list of schools that offer such classes in your area – read up on the lessons they offer, and see if they fit your needs.
Most of these institutions also have websites that allow you to sign up for their classes directly online. This makes the process very easy and convenient for you. However, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up, as some institutions may have age restrictions or other eligibility requirements.
If you're not sure whether on-site German classes are the right option for you, don't hesitate to ask around or speak with an education professional – for example, a German teacher. They'll be more than happy to help you figure out the best way to learn German for your needs and budget.
Bottom Line
Learning German can be a daunting task, but with the help of modern technology and free resources, it doesn't have to be expensive. Whether you prefer studying online or in person, there is definitely something out there for you.
So, don't hesitate to start learning today – the sooner you start, the sooner you'll be speaking German. Good luck!
