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Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg
PhD German + English

International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language

Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg Freiburg im Breisgau · Baden-Württemberg

About the Program

International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language
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International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language

Application Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a minimum rating of good (or equivalent), and a Master’s degree (or equivalent) with a minimum rating of good (or equivalent), from a university recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. He/she should prove that his/her study was regular for both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Additional requirements: Demonstrating interest in the German language and culture, and in teaching German language and culture. Other criteria upon the suggestion of the Department Council and a recommendation of Graduate Studies Council and a Deans Council decision, such as academic behaviour. A 10–20-page exposé detailing a clearly defined and manageable research question, a summary of the state-of-the-art status of research in the appropriate field, the proposed methodology, an outlook on the estimated results, a list of crucial references, and a timeline. A Master’s thesis rated very good or excellent, or comparable scientific work (articles, research papers, conference papers, etc.). German language skills to be verified through the official German language exams TestDaF 4x4 (or 16, cumulative). Successful completion of the oral readiness exam.

Language Requirements

Academic German Language Proficiency (TestDaf 4x4)

How do I apply to International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language at Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language at Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg

Is International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language at Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg taught in German or English? ▼

This PhD programme is taught in German + English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language at Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German + English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying International Graduate School GFL – German as a Foreign Language? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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