German

German SLI 2026 - In Person

The Department of Germanic Languages and Literatures at the University of Virginia is pleased to offer the German Summer Language Institute. In the summer of 2026, students can choose from the full 8-week program (12 credits - Intensive Elementary and Intermediate German 1016-2026), or opt for one of the two halves: the first half (6 credits - Intensive Introductory German 1016-1026) or the second half (6 credits - Intensive Intermediate German 2016-2026). Students can select the option that best fits their schedule, proficiency level, and learning goals. This program creates a supportive peer environment, enabling students to develop German language skills quickly.

Pedagogy and Philosophy

Besides learning German vocabulary and grammar and intensely practicing the four language skills, writing, reading, listening, and speaking, in daily morning and afternoon sessions, students will also be engaged in German cultural activities such as watching movies and preparing and cooking German dishes at the International Center.

The program aims to have students achieve the intermediate level on the  ACTFL Scale.

Unique Features of the Program

The German SLI features experienced instructors who combine traditional classroom techniques with cultural components to create a stimulating and engaging atmosphere. We focus on daily conversation and journal writing, enhancing individual self-expression in German.

What students say about German SLI:

"So don’t just pick a language cause it itself is easy. No language is “easy” to learn. It won’t be enough to get through it. Pick a language or culture you actually have a reason to study. The professors are all amazing, and care so much about you and your success in the program."

"The SLI program is amazing for getting your foreign language requirement done with, acing an opportunity to find a language you want to learn and focus exclusively on that, diving into the culture of said country, and giving you an opportunity to learn something you have an interest in."

Required Textbook:

Robert Di Donato; Monica Clyde. Deutsch: Na klar! An Introductory German Course (Student Edition) 8th Edition. McGraw-Hill Education

Daily schedule:

The program offers morning and afternoon sessions, Monday through Friday. Attendance is mandatory for all daily sessions.

Morning 9:30-11:45  

Afternoon 1:00-3:15

Check all the available options before applying. 

Students are strongly encouraged to register for the full 8-week program and complete the intermediate level. The option to apply for either the first or second half is also available. The table below provides information on the available options.

2026 Costs

All students in SLI programs (including the non-credit option) must pay:

• • Institute Fee - non-refundable: $60
  • Comprehensive Fee - non-refundable: $493 (In-State) - $553 (Out-of-State)
  • Tuition: Depends on the number of credits for which the student is enrolled. Check tuition costs below the SLI Program Fee, and contact us at vera.abbate@virginia.edu with any questions.

This is not a residential program. For information on housing and meal plans, please refer to the following resources:

• • For housing costs, see Summer Session Housing.
  • For meal plan options, see Dining.

Contact Information: 

Department of German Languages and Literatures