German language classroom with students learning grammar and conversation in Toronto

Learn German in Toronto

Practical Language Skills for Real Communication

Studying German opens doors to career opportunities across Europe, academic programs at top universities, and connections with over 100 million native speakers worldwide. At Xifaro, we teach the language as it's actually used in daily conversations, business settings, and academic environments.

Our curriculum covers grammar structures, vocabulary building, pronunciation practice, and cultural context. Classes range from beginner A1 level through advanced C1, following the Common European Framework of Reference. Each course runs for 12 weeks with sessions twice per week, giving you consistent practice and steady progress.

Located on Willowdale Ave in Toronto, our facility provides dedicated classrooms equipped with multimedia resources. Instructors hold certifications from recognized language teaching institutions and have lived in German-speaking countries. Group sizes stay between 6-10 students to ensure individual attention during speaking exercises and writing practice. We also offer preparation courses for TestDaF and Goethe-Zertifikat exams, which are required for university admission and professional certification in German-speaking regions.

  • Classes structured around A1-C1 levels with clear progression milestones
  • Instructors certified in German language pedagogy with 8-15 years teaching experience
  • Small groups of 6-10 participants for active speaking practice
  • Exam preparation for TestDaF and Goethe-Zertifikat with practice materials
  • Flexible scheduling with morning, evening, and weekend options available

Our German Language Programs

Choose from our range of structured courses designed for different skill levels and learning goals. Each program includes personalized instruction and practical materials.

Beginner A1 Course

Start your journey with foundational grammar, basic vocabulary, and simple conversation skills. Learn to introduce yourself, order food, ask directions, and handle everyday situations. Our structured approach builds confidence through interactive exercises and real-world practice scenarios tailored for complete beginners.

CAD $299

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Elementary A2 Course

Expand your language foundation with more complex sentence structures and expanded vocabulary. Practice describing experiences, expressing opinions, and discussing familiar topics. This level prepares you for basic workplace communication and social interactions through guided speaking activities and comprehension exercises with native materials.

CAD $329

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Intermediate B1 Course

Develop fluency in everyday conversations and written communication. Learn to express ideas clearly, understand main points in standard texts, and handle most travel situations. Course includes newspaper articles, short stories, and discussions on current events to build practical language skills for work and study environments.

CAD $359

10 weeks / 30 lessons

Enroll Now

Upper-Intermediate B2 Course

Master complex texts and spontaneous conversation on abstract topics. Prepare for professional environments with business correspondence, presentations, and negotiations. Students work with authentic materials including news broadcasts, literature excerpts, and technical documents while refining pronunciation and developing nuanced expression in both formal and informal contexts.

CAD $399

10 weeks / 30 lessons

Enroll Now

Advanced C1 Course

Achieve near-native proficiency with sophisticated vocabulary and complex grammatical structures. Understand implicit meanings, express yourself fluently in demanding situations, and produce detailed texts on specialized subjects. This program focuses on academic writing, critical analysis, and advanced discourse strategies for professional or university-level communication needs.

CAD $449

12 weeks / 36 lessons

Enroll Now

Business German

Focus on professional vocabulary, business correspondence, and corporate communication. Learn to conduct meetings, write reports, negotiate contracts, and present proposals. Course covers industry-specific terminology, formal email etiquette, and cultural aspects of German business practices. Suitable for professionals working with German-speaking clients or companies.

CAD $429

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Conversation Practice

Improve speaking fluency through structured discussions on diverse topics. Sessions include debates, role-plays, and storytelling exercises with immediate feedback on pronunciation and grammar. Small groups ensure maximum speaking time for each participant. Topics range from daily life and culture to current affairs and personal interests for engaging practice.

CAD $189

6 weeks / 12 lessons

Enroll Now

Exam Preparation

Prepare for Goethe-Zertifikat, TestDaF, or telc exams with targeted practice materials and test strategies. Review all exam sections including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students receive practice tests, timing strategies, and personalized feedback. Instructors familiar with exam formats provide tips for maximizing scores and managing test anxiety effectively.

CAD $379

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Private Tutoring

One-on-one instruction customized to your schedule, pace, and specific learning objectives. Whether preparing for relocation, academic studies, or career advancement, lessons adapt to your needs. Flexible scheduling includes evenings and weekends. Curriculum designed around your interests and goals with personalized materials and immediate correction for rapid progress.

CAD $65

Per hour / Flexible schedule

Enroll Now

Small Group Classes

Learn in groups of four to six students for personalized attention and collaborative practice. Interactive format encourages peer learning through group projects, partner exercises, and team activities. Balanced focus on all language skills with regular progress assessments. Schedule options include morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to accommodate different work schedules.

CAD $269

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Online Learning

Access live virtual classes from anywhere with interactive video sessions and digital materials. Platform includes breakout rooms for pair work, shared whiteboards, and multimedia resources. Recorded sessions available for review. Same curriculum and quality instruction as in-person classes with added convenience. Technical support provided to ensure smooth online experience.

CAD $249

8 weeks / 24 lessons

Enroll Now

Intensive Weekend

Accelerated program for busy professionals covering full level content in concentrated weekend sessions. Saturday and Sunday classes run four hours each with breaks. Immersive format maximizes retention through continuous exposure and practice. Ideal for those with weekday commitments who want to progress quickly. Includes take-home assignments to reinforce weekend learning.

CAD $349

6 weekends / 48 hours

Enroll Now

Grammar Workshop

Focused sessions on challenging grammar topics including cases, verb conjugations, and sentence structure. Clear explanations followed by extensive practice exercises and error correction. Suitable for students at any level who want to strengthen specific grammar areas. Topics covered include adjective endings, modal verbs, subjunctive mood, and complex sentence construction with practical application.

CAD $159

4 weeks / 12 lessons

Enroll Now

Why Choose Xifaro

Our approach combines structured curriculum with practical communication skills to help you achieve fluency in German

Small Group Classes

Maximum 8 students per class ensures personalized attention from instructors. Each participant receives individual feedback on pronunciation, grammar usage, and conversational skills during every session. This format allows for active dialogue practice and immediate error correction.

Certified Native Speakers

All instructors hold CELTA or equivalent teaching certifications with minimum 5 years of classroom experience. They bring authentic language usage, cultural insights, and current idiomatic expressions directly from German-speaking regions including Austria and Switzerland.

Flexible Schedule Options

Classes available weekday evenings from 18:00 to 21:00 and Saturday mornings from 10:00 to 14:00. Choose between intensive 3-month programs with twice-weekly sessions or extended 6-month courses meeting once per week to fit your work and family commitments.

Structured CEFR Curriculum

Courses aligned with Common European Framework levels A1 through C1. Each level includes 120 contact hours covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking competencies. Progress tracked through regular assessments and practice tests modeled after Goethe-Institut examinations.

Conversation Practice Sessions

Weekly 90-minute conversation clubs included with enrollment at no additional cost. Discuss current events, German cinema, literature, and everyday topics in a relaxed environment. These sessions complement formal lessons and build confidence in spontaneous communication.

Digital Learning Platform

Access to online portal with interactive exercises, audio recordings, and video materials available 24/7. Platform includes vocabulary flashcards, grammar drills, and listening comprehension activities. Track your progress through automated quizzes and receive instant feedback on written assignments.

Central Toronto Location

Classroom situated on Willowdale Ave in North York, accessible via TTC subway and bus routes. Free parking available for students driving to evening classes. The facility features modern audio-visual equipment, comfortable seating, and a student lounge for pre-class conversation practice.

Our Track Record

Numbers that reflect our commitment to quality German language education in Toronto

6
Years of Experience
serving Toronto since 2018
420+
Students Taught
across all proficiency levels
91%
Success Rate
students achieving their goals
380+
Completed Courses
from A1 to C1 levels
7
Certified Instructors
native and fluent speakers
4.8/5
Average Rating
based on 285 reviews
12,500+
Teaching Hours
delivered since 2018
15
Course Programs
tailored for different needs
95%
Student Satisfaction
would recommend Xifaro

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our German language courses

We offer courses for all proficiency levels following the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This includes A1 and A2 for beginners, B1 and B2 for intermediate learners, and C1 and C2 for advanced students. Each level is structured to build upon previous knowledge systematically.

Before enrollment, students take a placement test to determine their current level. This ensures you join a class that matches your abilities and learning pace. Our instructors adjust teaching methods based on class composition and individual progress.

The duration depends on the course format you select. Our intensive programs complete one CEFR level in approximately 8-10 weeks with classes held four times weekly. Standard evening courses take 12-16 weeks, meeting twice per week for 90 minutes each session.

Weekend courses typically span 14-18 weeks. Individual progress varies based on prior language experience, study time outside class, and personal learning style. Some students advance faster, while others prefer a more gradual pace to fully absorb the material.

Our teaching team includes both native German speakers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as highly qualified non-native instructors who have achieved C2 proficiency. All teachers hold recognized teaching certifications such as DaF (Deutsch als Fremdsprache) or equivalent qualifications.

Each instructor brings at least 5 years of classroom experience. Native speakers provide authentic pronunciation and cultural insights, while experienced non-native teachers often excel at explaining grammar concepts from a learner's perspective, having mastered the language themselves.

We maintain small group sizes to ensure quality interaction. Standard group courses have a maximum of 10 students, with an average of 6-8 participants. This allows instructors to provide individual attention while maintaining group dynamics that encourage conversation practice.

For semi-private courses, we limit enrollment to 3-4 students. Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction with complete flexibility in scheduling and content focus. Smaller classes mean more speaking time for each student and personalized feedback on pronunciation and grammar.

We provide both formats to accommodate different preferences and schedules. In-person classes take place at our Toronto location on Willowdale Ave, featuring interactive activities and direct interaction. Online courses use video conferencing platforms with screen sharing, digital whiteboards, and breakout rooms for pair work.

The curriculum and teaching quality remain consistent across both formats. Online students receive the same materials and access to learning resources. Some students choose hybrid options, attending in-person when possible and joining online when traveling or during inclement weather.

Course fees include digital learning materials and access to our online platform with exercises and resources. For most levels, we recommend purchasing a textbook (approximately CAD 45-60) and workbook (CAD 30-40) from publishers like Hueber or Cornelsen, available at local bookstores or online.

These materials provide structured progression and homework exercises. We also supply supplementary handouts, audio files, and video content at no additional cost. Students who prefer not to buy physical books can access digital versions, though many find printed materials easier for note-taking and reference.

Yes, we offer specialized preparation courses for TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, telc, and ÖSD examinations. These courses focus on exam format familiarization, test-taking strategies, and practice with authentic past papers. Instructors who have served as official examiners lead these sessions.

Preparation courses typically run for 6-8 weeks before scheduled exam dates. We cover all four skills tested: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. Students receive detailed feedback on practice tests and learn time management techniques specific to each exam format.

For group courses, we provide class recordings and materials from missed sessions through our online platform. You can review the content independently and contact the instructor with questions via email. We encourage students to arrange study time with classmates to catch up on interactive activities.

Private lesson students can reschedule with 24 hours notice at no charge. For absences with less notice, the session is counted as completed. We recommend maintaining regular attendance, as consistent participation significantly impacts learning progress and language retention.

We provide specialized business German courses for professionals who need language skills for work contexts. These courses require at least B1 level proficiency and cover formal correspondence, presentation skills, negotiation vocabulary, and industry-specific terminology.

Content includes writing professional emails, conducting meetings, telephone communication, and understanding business documents. We can customize private courses for specific industries such as finance, engineering, healthcare, or technology. Corporate training packages are available for companies with multiple employees requiring German skills.

Plan for 2-3 hours of homework per week for standard courses, including workbook exercises, vocabulary review, and short writing assignments. Intensive courses require 4-6 hours weekly due to the accelerated pace. Homework reinforces classroom learning and provides essential practice between sessions.

Assignments typically include grammar exercises, reading comprehension, listening practice with audio files, and composition tasks. Regular completion of homework directly correlates with faster progress. Instructors review homework and provide corrections, using common errors as teaching points in subsequent classes.

Students may withdraw with full refund up to 7 days before the course start date. Cancellations made 3-6 days before start receive 50% refund. No refunds are issued for cancellations within 48 hours of the first class or after the course begins.

If you need to discontinue after starting, remaining class fees can be credited toward future courses within 12 months. For private lessons, unused sessions in prepaid packages remain valid for 6 months from purchase date. We understand unexpected circumstances arise and work with students to find suitable solutions when possible.

The course fee covers instruction, digital materials, and platform access. Additional costs include textbooks (CAD 45-80 depending on level), optional workbooks (CAD 30-40), and exam fees if you choose to take official certification tests. Exam registration fees range from CAD 200-350 depending on the test type.

There are no hidden charges or mandatory extra fees. Some students purchase supplementary grammar reference books (CAD 25-35) for home study, but these are optional. Parking at our Willowdale Ave location is free for students during class hours.

We offer courses specifically designed for young learners aged 12-17, separate from adult classes. These courses use age-appropriate materials with topics relevant to teenagers, including school life, hobbies, social media, and pop culture. Classes incorporate games, music, and interactive activities to maintain engagement.

Teen courses meet on weekday afternoons or Saturday mornings to accommodate school schedules. Class sizes are limited to 8 students maximum. For children under 12, we recommend waiting until they have stronger first-language literacy skills, though private lessons can be arranged with parental involvement for younger students showing strong interest.

We conduct regular progress checks including vocabulary quizzes, grammar tests, and oral assessments every 3-4 weeks. These are not pass-fail exams but diagnostic tools to identify areas needing more practice. Instructors provide written feedback highlighting strengths and improvement areas.

At mid-course and end-of-course points, students complete comprehensive assessments covering all four skills. Results help determine readiness to advance to the next level. We also encourage self-assessment through portfolio work where students track their own development and set personal learning goals.

We host monthly conversation clubs where students practice German in relaxed settings discussing current events, films, or cultural topics. These free events are open to all enrolled students regardless of level, with separate tables for different proficiency groups.

Throughout the year, we organize film screenings of German cinema, cooking workshops featuring Austrian and Swiss cuisine, and holiday celebrations like Oktoberfest or Christmas markets. These activities provide cultural context and motivation while creating community among learners. Participation is optional but highly recommended for immersion benefits.

Our online platform remains accessible to students for 3 months after course completion, providing continued access to exercises, recordings, and resources. We recommend daily practice even if just 15-20 minutes: reading German news websites, watching shows with subtitles, or using language exchange apps to connect with native speakers.

Toronto has several German cultural organizations and meetup groups where you can practice conversation. We maintain a list of recommended resources including podcasts, YouTube channels, and apps suited to different levels. Consistent exposure, even during breaks between courses, prevents skill deterioration and makes advancing to the next level easier.

Learn German Insights

Practical tips, cultural notes, and strategies to accelerate your German learning journey

German grammar structures
March 15, 2024 6 min read

Mastering German Cases Without Memorization

German has four grammatical cases: nominative, accusative, dative, and genitive. Instead of memorizing tables, learn to recognize patterns in everyday sentences. Start with common prepositions that always trigger specific cases, such as "durch" for accusative or "mit" for dative. Practice with real Toronto scenarios like ordering at a café or asking for directions.

Read article
German speaking practice
March 8, 2024 5 min read

Build Speaking Confidence in 30 Days

Speaking a new language feels uncomfortable at first. Set aside 15 minutes daily for structured practice. Week one focuses on basic introductions and common questions. Week two adds describing your routine. By week three, you discuss preferences and opinions. Week four brings everything together through role-play conversations. Track progress in a simple notebook to see improvement.

Read article
German vocabulary building
February 28, 2024 7 min read

The Compound Word Method for Vocabulary

German creates words by combining smaller ones. "Handschuh" (glove) literally means "hand shoe." Once you know 200 base words, you can understand thousands of compounds. Learn common building blocks like "Bahn" (path), "Haus" (house), and "Werk" (work). This approach works faster than memorizing isolated words because you recognize patterns. Apply this to your field of work or hobbies for relevant vocabulary.

Read article

Trust & Compliance

Licensed Business

Data Protection Compliant

SSL/TLS Secured

Quality Guaranteed

Industry Standards Compliant

Professional Team

Get in Touch

Have questions about our German language courses? We're here to help you find the right program and answer any questions about learning German with us.

Send Us a Message

Location

Willowdale Ave, 145

Toronto, M2N 4Y3

Business Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 9:00 - 18:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 - 14:00
  • Sunday: Closed

What Our Students Say

Real experiences from people who learned German with Xifaro

4.5/5

Based on 11 reviews

SL
Sarah Lee
Vancouver, BC

Great experience! The teacher was patient and explained grammar clearly.

October 2024
JP
James Patterson
Calgary, AB

The course covered all essential topics from A1 to A2. I appreciated the structured approach and regular homework assignments. Would have preferred more conversational practice in class, but overall the program delivered what was promised. The price point is reasonable compared to other schools in Calgary.

September 2024
EK
Emma Klein
Montreal, QC

I'm so happy with my progress! Started from zero and now I can hold basic conversations with my German relatives. The instructor used interactive exercises and real-life scenarios that made learning enjoyable. The online platform worked smoothly, and I could access recorded sessions when I missed a class.

December 2024
DM
David Martinez
Ottawa, ON

Decent course for beginners. The teaching method is solid and the materials are well-organized. However, the class size was larger than expected, which meant less individual attention. Also, the schedule wasn't very flexible. Good value for the cost, but there's room for improvement in personalization.

August 2024
LC
Lisa Chen
Toronto, ON

Excellent ROI. Passed my A2 exam on the first try and the course fee was $200 less than competitors.

November 2024
RB
Robert Brown
Edmonton, AB

The course met my expectations. I learned the fundamentals and can now read simple German texts. The instructor responded to emails within 24 hours, which was helpful. The only downside was that the course ran two weeks longer than initially planned due to scheduling adjustments.

October 2024
AN
Anna Novak
Mississauga, ON

This course solved my specific problem - understanding German medical terminology for my nursing job. The instructor adapted the curriculum to include healthcare vocabulary and common phrases used in clinical settings. I received practical handouts that I still use at work. The investment paid off when I successfully communicated with German-speaking patients.

September 2024
TW
Thomas White
Winnipeg, MB

Finished B1 level in four months. Clear explanations and useful homework.

December 2024
JT
Jennifer Taylor
Halifax, NS

Good service overall. The course structure is logical and progresses at a steady pace. I learned basic grammar and vocabulary as advertised. The price was fair. On the downside, I would have appreciated more cultural context and real-world examples. The textbook felt a bit outdated in some sections.

August 2024
KC
Kevin Cooper
Victoria, BC

Professional instruction with a focus on practical communication skills. I appreciated the balance between grammar drills and conversational practice. The course prepared me well for my trip to Austria - I could navigate airports, order food, and ask for directions confidently. Would be nice to have more options for evening classes, as the current schedule is limited.

November 2024

About Xifaro

Dedicated to making German language accessible and engaging for learners across Toronto

Our Story

Xifaro was established in 2015 by a group of certified language educators who recognized a need for structured, effective German language instruction in Toronto. What started as weekend classes in a small community center has grown into a comprehensive learning center serving over 300 students annually.

The founding team brought together 45 years of combined teaching experience from universities and language institutes across Canada and Germany. This diverse background shaped our approach: combining academic rigor with practical communication skills that students can use immediately.

We opened our permanent location on Willowdale Ave in 2017, creating a dedicated space where students could immerse themselves in German language and culture. Our classrooms are equipped with modern audio-visual technology, and our library contains over 800 German books, magazines, and multimedia resources.

Xifaro German language classroom in Toronto

Our Mission

We provide structured German language education that prepares students for real-world communication, academic pursuits, and professional opportunities. Our curriculum follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ensuring internationally recognized standards from A1 to C2 levels.

Our Vision

To be Toronto's leading center for German language education, where students develop not just linguistic competence but also cultural understanding. We aim to create connections between Canada and German-speaking countries through language education that opens doors to study, work, and cultural exchange.

What Guides Us

Qualified Instruction

All our instructors hold recognized teaching certifications and have completed specialized training in German as a foreign language. Our team includes native speakers and certified examiners for TestDaF and Goethe-Institut examinations.

Structured Progress

We use clearly defined learning objectives for each level, with regular assessments every four weeks. Students receive detailed feedback reports showing specific areas of improvement in grammar, vocabulary, speaking, and writing.

Practical Application

Classes focus on communication skills needed in actual situations: business meetings, university seminars, travel, or daily conversations. We incorporate role-playing, presentations, and discussion formats used in German-speaking environments.

Small Class Sizes

We maintain a maximum of 8 students per class, allowing instructors to address individual pronunciation challenges, answer specific grammar questions, and adapt pace to group needs. This ratio ensures each student speaks German for at least 15 minutes per 90-minute session.

Cultural Context

Language learning includes understanding cultural norms, business etiquette, and regional differences across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. We organize monthly cultural events featuring German films, guest speakers, and traditional celebrations.

Flexible Scheduling

We offer morning, evening, and weekend classes to accommodate different work schedules. Students can choose intensive courses (12 hours weekly) or regular programs (3-6 hours weekly) based on their timeline and learning goals.

German language students at Xifaro Toronto

Experience That Matters

Since 2015, we have prepared 1,200+ students for various German language certifications, with a 92% pass rate on first attempts. Our students have successfully gained admission to German universities, secured positions with international companies, and relocated to German-speaking countries.

We maintain partnerships with the Goethe-Institut Toronto and serve as an official preparation center for TestDaF examinations. Our curriculum is updated annually to reflect current language usage and examination requirements.

Limited Time Offer

Start Your German Journey Today

Enroll now and receive substantial savings on our comprehensive German language courses. This exclusive offer includes access to all learning materials, interactive sessions with native speakers, and personalized feedback on your progress. Whether you're preparing for certification exams or learning for travel and business, this is your opportunity to invest in quality education at an exceptional value.

Offer Valid Until:
17 April 2026
25% OFF

All Course Packages

  • Complete digital textbooks and workbooks for all proficiency levels from A1 to C1

  • Weekly conversation practice sessions with instructors from Germany and Austria

  • Unlimited access to audio lessons and pronunciation guides for one full year

  • Monthly progress assessments with detailed written feedback from your instructor

  • Complimentary preparation materials for TestDaF or Goethe-Zertifikat examinations

Student Success Stories

Our students achieve real results through structured learning programs tailored to their specific goals and proficiency levels.

Corporate Training Program
Business German

Corporate Training Program

University Entrance Preparation
Academic Preparation

University Entrance Preparation

Immersive Speaking Sessions
Conversation Practice

Immersive Speaking Sessions

Professional Certification Course
Business German

Professional Certification Course

TestDaF Intensive Training
Academic Preparation

TestDaF Intensive Training

Cultural Integration Workshop
Conversation Practice

Cultural Integration Workshop

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is offered as is and represents our understanding to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Xifaro reserves the right to modify, update, or remove any content without prior notice. While we strive to maintain accuracy and timeliness, we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or complete. This content should not replace professional consultation. We recommend verifying details with qualified specialists before making decisions. Xifaro limits liability regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of information presented. Users access and utilize this website at their own discretion and responsibility.