German Language & Culture
Hip, diverse, and student-friendly, Berlin is a beloved hub for international study.
There’s never a dull moment in this dynamic city. Break free on a gap year in Berlin and don’t miss a beat. Here you can be part of the cutting-edge cultural scene while practicing and perfecting your language skills in one of Europe’s most popular hot spots for creativity, innovation, and international study.
Whatever your level of German language proficiency—beginner, intermediate, or advanced—you’ll make impressive strides through interactive coursework four days a week at GLS, a local language institute with a beautiful campus, and through everyday conversations at your homestay. Out in the city, put your skills to the test in shops and cafés and with friendly locals—all while immersed in a rich, multicultural environment. Spend time learning about the city's fascinating history and architecture, art and culture, and its people. Take in the sights and sounds—and incredible international cuisine—all around you, for the global experience of a lifetime.
On weekends and in the evenings, you'll get into the rhythm of "Berliner" life while exploring all your neighborhood has to offer. Meet up with friends, take a day trip to a nearby town, or explore a nature reserve. Make the most of this amazing opportunity!
The Take-Aways
Language Proficiency
15-20 hours per week of German language learning designed to improve real world language skills
Global Perspective
Build a strong foundation in the core components of intercultural learning. Come home with an improved sense of self and awareness of what shapes others.
Certificate
Earn a Certificate of Learning in German
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Break free in Europe’s leading capital of creativity and innovation.
A lively café culture, an innovative art and music scene, an abundance of green city parks, and a laid-back vibe make for a near-perfect student environment.. Berlin’s efficient public transportation makes it easy to get around, and the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to practice your German while out on the town.
Berlin is a city of districts and neighborhoods. CIEE Berlin is located in the heart of Kreuzberg, known for its youthful energy, sidewalk cafés, street festivals, and vibrant cultural scene. Checkpoint Charlie, the Jewish Museum, and Berlin’s historic “Mitte” district are all within walking distance. A 10-minute bike ride takes you to the expansive oasis of Tempelhof, the former airport of Berlin Airlift fame and now a giant urban park. Central Berlin is a quick subway ride away – the station is right in front of the center!
Home to nearly 4 million people, the centuries-old capital of Germany is now a rich and vibrant city with many different cultures and subcultures living side by side. About one-third of Berlin is parkland or gardens, contrasting with its urban reputation. The Brandenburg Gate serves as a historical center of Berlin, famous for its association with the Berlin Wall, which fell in 1989. Recently refurbished, it is a national symbol of peace and unity.
Program Blogs
The GAP Program in Berlin: The experience of Henrik Rauch
We are always looking to hear how the experience of our students has been no matter which program they did. That’s why we take time to listen them and get... keep reading
Sample Activities
- Walk one of the last remaining stretches of the Berlin Wall still in place at the East Side Gallery – the longest open-air art gallery in the world
- Get an inside-look at Berlin's thriving start-up scene at a networking event or pitch night
- Spend a day at Zoologischer Garten, the most visited zoo in Europe
- Check out famous landmarks such as Checkpoint Charlie, the Jewish Museum Berlin, the Reichstag building, and the Mitte district
- Pay your respects at the Holocaust Memorial
- Relax in the expansive oasis of Tempelhof, the former airport of Berlin Airlift fame, and now a verdant urban park
- Sample Berlin’s famous street food – an amazing range of international and local foods are sold on almost every corner of the city
- CIEE Berlin offers at least one overnight trip per semester to cities such as Dresden, Leipzig, or Hamburg as well as 2 daytrips to nearby destinations, such as the city of Potsdam—with its famous Rococo castle Sanssouci, the waterways and forests of Lübbenau, or the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial.
Please note this list of activities is based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to both adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when revising itineraries is always to enhance your experience. Every activity is designed to provide you with a deep immersion in your topic, local culture and sights. Get ready for maximum fun!
Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more that 1 year post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 18 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience required.
- Please note Gap participants may volunteer at local organizations with prior authorization from CIEE. Gap participants however, are not authorized to take any job or seek employment during their stay.
For more information, refer to our detailed GAP eligibility criteria.
Dates & Fees
Fees
$50
Priority deadline discount: Apply to a fall semester or academic year by June 1 and get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from final balance.
Program fee includes iNext travel insurance.
Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Academic Year 2025 33 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2026 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2025 12 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $16,250 |
| Program Academic Year 2024 33 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $29,300 |
| Program Fall 2025 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2024 12 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $16,250 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.