What is a Volkshochschule (VHS)?
A Volkshochschule (VHS) is a public adult education center found in almost every city and town in Germany. It offers non-academic learning programs, including:
German language courses at all levels (A1–C2)
Preparation for exams such as telc and Goethe
Integration courses (Integrationskurs)
Vocational, digital, social, and cultural courses
Who among refugees/asylum-related groups can study there?
In general, the following groups can apply for VHS courses:
Asylum seekers
People holding residence permits for refugee, subsidiary, or humanitarian reasons (§ 25 para. 1, 2, 3, 5)
People with a Duldung (tolerated stay)
People from Ukraine under § 24 AufenthG
Recognized refugees who have not completed language courses
Is it always completely free?
Not always. However, in many cases courses can be fully free or require only a small contribution:
Free of charge:
With an integration entitlement voucher (Berechtigungsschein) from BAMF or the Jobcenter
If a fee exemption applies due to low income or social benefits
In certain special cases for some groups
Small fees:
Often around €1–€2 per teaching hour, roughly €100–€200 per full course
You can request a fee waiver directly at the VHS when registering, by showing benefit notices or residence documents
Types of German courses offered:
General German courses (A1–C1)
Integration courses (BAMF-funded: language + orientation/civic content)
Job-related German courses (Berufsbezogene Deutschkurse)
Special courses (for women, mothers, youth, seniors, or newly arrived refugees)
How do you register for a VHS course?
Find the nearest VHS in your city
Register online or in person
Submit required documents, such as:
Residence permit
BAMF voucher or Jobcenter proof
Address registration (Anmeldung)
Often, you must take a placement test (Einstufungstest) to determine the right level
Are the certificates recognized?
Yes. Many VHS courses lead to official exams such as:
telc A1–C1
DTZ – German Test for Immigrants
LID – Life in Germany
These are widely recognized for citizenship procedures, education, and the labor market.
Can you complete an integration course there?
Yes. The VHS is one of the largest providers of integration courses in Germany. You can usually study from A1 to B1, then take the DTZ and the orientation course.
Summary
A Volkshochschule is an excellent opportunity for refugees and protection seekers to learn German and start real integration—often for free or at very low cost. Learning the language is a key step toward stability, work, and a better future.
— The website’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this content as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed and binding information.
