Find the Right German Course for You
German courses at Georgia Tech follow this sequence:
- GRMN 1001: Elementary German I
- GRMN 1002: Elementary German II (A1 level)
- GRMN 2001: Intermediate German I (A2 level)
- GRMN 2002: Intermediate German II (B1 level)
- GRMN 3000/4000: Advanced German
Which Course Should You Take?
- If you have AP/IB/DSD credit, enroll in the next course in the sequence.
- If you’ve never studied German, start with GRMN 1001.
- If you have prior experience, review the descriptions below and take the corresponding placement test. Instructors will verify scores in the first week of class.
- If you place beyond GRMN 2002, you may enroll in any 3000- or 4000-level course, as they are considered equivalent.
Placement Tests
To determine your placement, first review the descriptions below and then take the appropriate Netzwerk placement test.
What to Expect
- Each test has 38 multiple-choice questions and takes 20-40 minutes.
- The test is not graded—it is simply a tool to find the right course for you.
- Scores indicate your recommended placement, but if you score low, consider enrolling one level below. If you score exceptionally high, consider a higher level.
- Placement tests do not provide course credit, but you may qualify for Advanced Standing Credit after completing coursework at Georgia Tech.
Proficiency Levels and Course Expectations
A1 – GRMN 1002 (Elementary German II)
You should take GRMN 1002 if you can:
✔ Give basic personal information (name, hobbies, daily routine).
✔ Use numbers, days, months, and times.
✔ Talk about weather, locations, and basic needs.
✔ Form simple sentences using the present tense.
A2 – GRMN 2001 (Intermediate German I)
You should take GRMN 2001 if you can:
✔ Talk and write about past events using present perfect.
✔ Express opinions, make comparisons, and describe people and objects.
✔ Discuss topics like food, travel, technology, and cultural differences.
✔ Write and understand short texts on familiar subjects.
B1 – GRMN 2002 (Intermediate German II)
You should take GRMN 2002 if you can:
✔ Discuss current events, work, environment, and technology.
✔ Express opinions, preferences, hopes, and future plans.
✔ Summarize books, movies, or historical events.
✔ Engage in everyday conversations with confidence.
Understanding Proficiency Levels
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) defines language proficiency from basic (A1) to proficient (C2). Georgia Tech’s German courses align with these levels:
| CEFR Level | Description | Georgia Tech Course |
|---|---|---|
| A1 (Novice) | Can understand simple phrases and introduce themselves. | GRMN 1002 |
| A2 (Intermediate Low-Mid-High) | Can communicate in everyday situations and write short texts. | GRMN 2001 |
| B1 (Advanced Low) | Can discuss familiar topics, make plans, and express opinions. | GRMN 2002 |
| B2 (Advanced Mid) | Can understand complex topics and interact fluently. | GRMN 3000/4000 |
| C1 (Advanced High) | Can express ideas spontaneously and write detailed texts. | GRMN 3000/4000 |
| C2 (Superior) | Can understand virtually everything and use language precisely. | GRMN 3000/4000 |
Additional Certification Options
Students interested in official German proficiency certifications may consider the Goethe-Institut exams, which correspond to CEFR levels:
| Goethe-Institut Exam | CEFR Level |
|---|---|
| Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (Start Deutsch 1) | A1 |
| Goethe-Zertifikat A2 (Start Deutsch 2) | A2 |
| Goethe-Zertifikat B1 (Zertifikat Deutsch) | B1 |
| Goethe-Zertifikat B2 | B2 |
| Goethe-Zertifikat C1 | C1 |
| Goethe-Zertifikat C2 – Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS) | C2 |
Need Help?
For placement guidance or more information about the German program, contact the German language program director.