Moving to a new country often comes with its own hurdles and challenges, but it’s always an exciting and fundamentally transformative experience, and regardless if you’re moving for work, education, or family reasons, being able to communicate in the local language will drastically improve your integration, which will in turn improve your quality of life.
It’s no different for Americans moving to Switzerland. Although this picturesque mountainous country has four official languages, namely: German, Italian, French, and Romansh, German is by far the most widely spoken, with seventeen of the twenty six cantons using German as their sole official language, and the language being widely used along another language in other cantons.
Simply put, learning German is essential for anyone moving to Switzerland, and completing an accredited A2 German course is one of the crucial steps that can lay the foundation for a seamless integration into Swiss society.
In this article we will explain the importance of A2 German courses for Americans looking to move to Switzerland and we’ll give you some practical tips on choosing the right course, so read on if you have any plans of moving or even just visiting this amazing country.
A2 Level- A Gateway to Basic Communication
In the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages(CEFR), the A2 level indicates elementary proficiency. A learner of this level is expected to be familiarized with basic everyday expressions and be able to routinely handle everyday communication, from introducing yourself, to shopping or asking for directions
Learners who have achieved A2 level of proficiency will be, or at least should be, able to understand simple written text on familiar topics, as well as write in the target language.
Why A2 German Proficiency Matters in Switzerland
As already explained, German is the most widely spoken among the official languages in Switzerland, and is the primary language in government, public schools, and most social settings in the majority of the country, including some of the important regions like Zurich, Bern, and Basel.
Let’s have a look at why A2 level German proficiency is pivotal for newcomers:
Legal and Administrative Requirements
Many of the Swiss cantons have language requirements for residency permits and citizenship applications, and A2 level of German(or higher) is commonly needed, especially written and oral proficiency. A2 level is a great step towards achieving your telc and Goethe certification, and these are in fact mandatory for acquiring a residency permit. Achieving A2 level proficiency in German will definitely help in showing your commitment to integration with the local society, which can only help streamline and administrative or legal processes.
Everyday Interactions
Although Switzerland has four official languages, and even though English is fairly widely spoken, especially in urban centers, navigating everyday life without speaking German might prove to be challenging. Sure, you could probably handle the basics, find a bus station and a restaurant, in English, but it will get tiring, for both you and the locals. Achieving A2 level German fluency will add a new layer of depth to your everyday communication and help you understand the culture that surrounds you.
Employment Opportunities
While there are many multinational companies in Switzerland that use English in their business communication, most companies expect at least a basic level of German. When it comes to interacting with colleagues, business partners, and clients, being able to speak their language can work wonders in setting you apart from other candidates, so completing an A2 German course should be one of the priorities for everyone seeking employment in Switzerland.
Social Integration
It’s very hard to integrate socially without speaking the local language. The ability to participate in local community events, school meetings, and similar interactions is one of the things that can help speed up our integration with our new community by building rapport and trust. Speaking German at an A2 level will also open doors to new friendships and help us understand the society that we choose to live in.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best A2 German Course
Choosing the right German course can be the difference between frustration and fluency. There are many options to choose from between different educational institutions that offer A2 German courses, so let’s take a look at some of the important factors;
Accreditation and Certification
The key thing is to choose a course that is recognized by the Goethe-Institut and telc, as these courses will provide you with a certificate that will be essential for your residency, citizenship, and employment. If possible, make sure that all the teachers are also licensed and accredited.
Teaching Methodology
Different courses will use different methods, some will focus on speaking, others on grammar, or similar, and some, like German Academy Zurich, will have one dedicated teacher for each student, and the teacher will tailor the course according to the student’s ability, progress, and preferred methods of teaching.
Flexibility and Schedule
Considering that most learners will have personal, family, or business responsibilities, flexibility with scheduling lessons and tests is very important. Try to find a course that will allow you the flexibility to set your own schedule, so that you can learn at your own pace, and when you have time.
Conclusion
Achieving A2 German proficiency is something you should seriously consider if you intend on moving to Switzerland. It is going to be an essential step in your integration, as well as in your residency or employment applications, so the sooner you start the better. There are plenty of online A2 German courses that you can take from anywhere in the world, so there are no excuses. Pick an accredited course that fits your needs, and get started!
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