Training for German as a Foreign Language (GFL) | Teachers and Graduates of German Studies Heidelberg University

This advanced training course ("Fortbildungskurs" [FBK]) aims to expand the participants' language abilities and develop their GFL teaching skills. Participants are given the opportunity to work with various instructors and can choose their own set of modules from a wide variety of topics.

This year's umbrella theme is "Change of Perspective: Germany and a World in Transition".

Arrival days: Wednesday, 28 July and Thursday, 29 July 2027

The "Fortbildungskurs" (FBK) is designed for non-native teachers of German as a foreign language (GFL teachers) and non-native postgraduate students of German studies.

Meals are available at Heidelberg University‘s “Mensa“ or cafeteria at a moderate price.

In addition to the afternoon seminars students can attend a variety of workshops such as singing, dancing or theatre where students can put their language skills into practice while also getting to know other participants.

Furthermore, a complementary programme featuring evening events, e.g. concerts, film nights and a riverboat shuffle is offered. A "Global Village" and a farewell party round off our programme.

Guided tours through Heidelberg‘s Old Town and weekend excursions provide an opportunity to get to know the country and its people.

Local German students assist with organising recreational activities, and physical fitness is also taken care of. The sports facilities on campus are available to participants free of charge.

Heidelberg is world-famous for its castle and picturesque Old Town, for its romantic setting and, of course, for its university. Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is Germany’s oldest university. In its more than six-hundred-year history, it has established itself as a centre of excellent research and teaching, where many famous scientists — among them eleven Nobel Prize winners — have worked and continue to work. Today, more than 30,000 students study at 13 faculties, and 6,300 foreign students from over 130 different countries as well as hundreds of visiting professors and researchers contribute to the international flair of the university.

Internationality has always been a characteristic feature of Heidelberg University. In 1926, the International Summer School of German Language and Culture was held for the first time and now regularly attracts almost 500 participants from around the world each year. The Summer School offers excellent language instruction at all levels: from beginner to advanced. In addition to this core curriculum, students can choose from a wide range of afternoon seminars and lectures on topics such as literature and society.