Language requirements

Requirements and key qualifications

When studying, foreign languages have a decisive role. There are two very different central functions of it:

  1. Formal proof of certain language skills based on the secondary school leaving certificate or other forms of proof
  2. Practical language skills and competence, e.g. for reading texts in foreign languages, mainly in English, in almost all disciplines. In addition, broadening and developing language skills during studies. In some cases, language courses can also be introduced into the study programme as part of the general key qualifications.
Proof of language skills

Certain language skills are required to study most courses offered at the University, in modern foreign languages and/or in ancient languages (Latin, Greek, Hebrew), depending on the course. You will find information on language qualifications in our Study Programme Database.

Many of these language requirements can be proven in the qualification to enter higher education.

Proof of modern foreign languages (1st and 2nd foreign language):

Recognition of language skills proven with the ‘Abitur’ certificate (German university entrance qualification) is possible if the following periods are indicated:

  • lessons in school years 5‒10 (without Abitur examination)
  • lessons in school years 7‒12 (without Abitur examination)
  • Lessons in school years 9‒12 (with Abitur examination).

If this proof cannot be provided, level B1 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages/CEFRL) must be demonstrated parallel to the course of study with a reading testExternal link (duration 60 minutes) in the Language Centre.

Proof of Latin skills or ‘Latinum’ (Latin proficiency examination) and proof of Greek skills or ‘Graecum’ (Greek proficiency examination)

Different language levels are indicated in the Study Regulations, which can be proven with the Abitur certificate:

  • basic knowledge of Latin or Greek (A course)
  • basic knowledge of Latin or Greek (A+F course); secondary school, year 10
  • Latinum/Graecum (A+F+L course).

If this proof cannot be provided, it is possible to acquire it parallel to the course of study. de

If you obtain your Latin qualifications obtained elsewhere, the competent examinations office must check whether they are equivalent.

Broadening and developing foreign language competence
Undergraduate study programmes without admission restrictions
Student Service Centre
Opening hours:
Monday 10 - 12
Tuesday 13 - 15
Wednesday 10 - 12
Thursday 13 - 15
Friday 10 - 12

Updates / adjustments may occur at any time. Thank you for your understanding!

We currently provide advice and handle your concern solely also via phone and service desk.

You can reach us by phone
Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 11:00
Postal address:
Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena
Studierenden-Service-Zentrum
07737 Jena