The German with Marvin blog

A1 gets you in the door, but every level up earns points toward the Chancenkarte — here's exactly what German you need.

Joining your spouse in Germany? Here's the A1 German you actually need, how to prove it, and who's exempt.

The Goethe B1 exam has four modules you can pass one at a time — here's the format and a simple plan to clear it.

Know your target level, learn in order, and speak early — the smart way to prepare your German before moving to Germany.

B1 is the usual Ausbildung visa minimum, but some trades need A2 or B2 — here's the level you actually need.

B2 gets your nursing qualification recognised in Germany — here's how to start lower and which Pflege exam you actually need.

Most German degrees need B2–C1 — but the exact level depends on your programme. Here's what to aim for and which test to take.

There's no single "best" German exam — here's how to choose between Goethe and telc based on who's actually asking for it.

From zero to B1 is a few hundred hours — here's the real timeline by level, plus the two habits that get you there faster.

What A1 to C1 really mean — and the exact German level you need for citizenship, nursing, a job or university.