You can learn German to B1 without paying for a course. Combine a free structured course such as DW’s Nicos Weg (A1–B1) with free reading and listening material, and check your progress with the free model tests published by the Goethe-Institut and telc.
What free resources rarely give you is feedback and a plan. Set a fixed daily time and a level goal, and test yourself every two months.
A complete free stack
- Course: DW Learn German – Nicos Weg (A1, A2, B1), with videos, exercises and grammar.
- Grammar reference: DW’s grammar sections and free online grammar tables.
- Listening: Slow German, DW “Langsam gesprochene Nachrichten”, Easy German (YouTube).
- Reading: free tiers of reading apps, children’s books and graded readers from your library.
- Tests: Goethe-Institut and telc model tests (PDF) for A1–B2.
- Speaking: language exchange meetups or tandem partners.
A free weekly plan
- 1Monday–Friday: one Nicos Weg lesson (20 min) + one graded story (15 min).
- 2Daily: 10 minutes flashcard review.
- 3Saturday: one podcast episode with transcript.
- 4Sunday: write a short text about your week; once a month, do one part of a model test.
Add free graded reading
- 1
Download Lesen Lab
Free to start on iPhone and iPad.
- 2
Read one story a day
At your current level.
- 3
Review saved words
Flashcards with spaced repetition.
Free to download on iPhone & iPad
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free way to learn German?
DW’s free Nicos Weg course combined with graded reading, a slow podcast and official model tests.
Is Nicos Weg really free?
Yes. DW (Deutsche Welle) offers Nicos Weg for free online, covering A1 to B1.
Where can I take a free German level test?
Use the free model tests from the Goethe-Institut and telc, or online placement tests from language schools.
Can I get a German certificate for free?
Official certificates (Goethe, telc) cost a fee. In Germany, the DTZ at the end of an integration course can be free or subsidised.
Is there a free app for German reading practice?
Lesen Lab: Learn German A1–B2 is free to download with graded stories you can start reading right away: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6752349330