Summer Study Abroad in Freiburg, Germany
May / June / July / August 2026
The Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics (LCAL) has partnered with the Goethe Institute to offer a summer study abroad program in Freiburg, Germany.
About Freiburg, Germany
Freiburg, Germany is a picturesque university city nestled at the edge of the Black Forest. Known for its eco-friendly lifestyle, vibrant student life and rich history, Freiburg offers an ideal environment for studying abroad. Its mix of cutting-edge research institutions, medieval architecture and outdoor activities — like hiking and cycling — creates a perfect balance between academic rigor and leisure. With its sunny climate and proximity to France and Switzerland, Freiburg is a gateway to exploring Europe while experiencing a quintessentially German cultural and academic experience.
Program Overview
About the Program
Discover German language and culture in Freiburg, a lively city at the foot of the Black Forest. Home to both centuries-old traditions and forward-looking sustainability efforts, Freiburg offers students a unique study abroad experience that balances academic growth with outdoor adventure. At the Goethe Institute, participants join an international community of learners while building strong German language skills in a supportive, immersive environment. Weekdays may be spent in class or exploring the city’s historic streets, while weekends invite travel across Germany, France and Switzerland—just a short train ride away.
Start and End Dates
May 6–30, 2026
June 7–27, 2026
July 5–25, 2026
August 2–22, 2026
Duration
Three weeks
Academics
Prerequisites
This program is open to all — no prior knowledge of German is required.
Before arriving at the Goethe Institute, students will take a placement test to determine their language level. Students will be placed in the appropriate course based on their language skills.
Course Information
Students will receive transfer credit for German language courses. All classes are taught exclusively in German by native speakers.
Please note that no classes are held on the day of arrival.
Extracurricular Activities
As part of the program fee, students will engage in cultural program offerings through the Goethe Institute, which include a daytrip to Switzerland or France and a guided tour of Freiburg.
Travel & Accommodation
Travel & Transportation
Students are responsible for securing their own travel to/from Freiburg, Germany.
All transporation for required excursions and cultural actitives are included in the program fee.
Accommodations
Students will live in a Goethe Institute-owned guesthouse with other students near campus and the city center. Upon arrival to campus, students will receive their housing and room assignments.
Costs & Funding
Program Costs
- $2,764* (May or June)
- $2,853* (July or August)
Tuition, housing, course materials, insurance and excursion and cultural programs are included in the program cost. Not included are airfare to/from host city, meals and incidental personal expenses.
*Prices are subject to change based on currency exchange rates
Scholarships & Funding
Our department, the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Office of International Education offer study abroad scholarships for semester, full-year or summer programs. All LCAL declared majors and Arabic Studies minors in good academic standing with CMU are guaranteed a scholarship from LCAL. Scholarships can be applied to tuition, room and board, airfare and/or book expenses for any accredited study abroad program. Learn more about funding your study abroad experience.
Program-specific Funding
Max Kade Scholarships for Study Abroad at the Goethe Institute
Through a generous grant from the Max Kade Foundation, Carnegie Mellon German Studies students can apply for a summer scholarship to study at the Goethe Institute. Interested students can learn more and apply here.