German is the most widely spoken, with over 65% of the population using it, followed by French, which is spoken by approximately 24%. In schools or language courses, everyone learns standard German. However, in everyday life, residents of German-speaking cantons speak various dialects that can be difficult for speakers of the standard version to understand. In such cases, it is advisable to ask the conversation partner to speak in standard German (Hochdeutsch). Learning dialects can be done only after mastering the standard version.
In Western Switzerland, also known as Romandy, residents speak French. Knowing the standard language is sufficient to communicate with locals in this region.
In the canton of Ticino and some regions of Graubünden, the primary language is Italian, spoken by approximately 7% of Swiss people.
Only a small portion of Swiss people speak Romansh, primarily in the canton of Graubünden. It represents slightly more than 1% of the population.
Many people in Switzerland are fluent in English. Knowing English lets you easily communicate with speakers from different cantons.
For immigrants with an S permit, there is the opportunity to attend official free courses. However, this may not always be sufficient. Therefore, considering that German and French are Switzerland's most widely spoken languages, we have compiled a selection of free courses that will help you master them.
Free German and French Courses
In this section, we present free offerings from multilingual platforms and apps that provide the opportunity to learn dozens of languages, including German and French independently. We will briefly describe each of them.
50 languages:
On this multilingual platform, you will find a wide range of courses, including beginner-level online courses for French and German. Each course is structured with 100 lessons divided into separate topics. Audio lessons can be downloaded in MP3 format. Follow the links to explore further:
Download the app from the App Store
Mondly:
A comprehensive language resource where you can learn dozens of languages, including German and French, starting from a beginner level. You can track your progress and view statistics if you create an account. You can learn on the website: https://app.mondly.com
There is no app available.
Duolingo:
Another popular platform for language learning, including German and French. You can use it both on the website and in the app. Duolingo has a well-designed system of motivation and reminders to encourage daily learning. However, German and French are only available for Russian speakers. You can learn English in Ukrainian, though.
Campster:
Campster offers courses in both German and English, making it suitable for beginners. They provide free certificates, have a supportive community, and offer homework checks.
LingoHut:
LingoHut provides 125 free lessons divided into topics for both German and French languages. They offer audio, text formats, and games. Overall, they offer 40 languages to learn, including Ukrainian.
Tandem Language Exchange Resource:
Tandem is a mutual language learning method where you can exchange knowledge of your native language with someone who wants to learn it. It can be English if you are proficient, Ukrainian, or any other language you are proficient in and can teach your partner. Sprachtandem.ch is a website for finding language exchange partners throughout Switzerland. Simply create a profile stating the language you want to learn, your native language, and your location, and choose who you want to work with.
Free French language courses:
French is most widely spoken in three cantons: Neuchâtel, Vaud, and Geneva. You can learn it through various free resources.
On Gayane's YouTube channel, you can find interesting French lessons with explanations in Ukrainian.
Ensemble en Français Course:
This is a free online French course offered by an online school. It was specially organized for Ukrainians who have been evacuated or plan to go to France and other French-speaking countries due to the war. You can learn on their website:
Basic French Language Skills:
A free online course for beginners. Here, you can acquire basic knowledge of the French language for everyday life and receive a certificate. Follow the link:
Empower Lingua:
Another online course for beginners in French. It is presented in the format of video lessons. You can also learn English and Polish there. Follow the link to try it out right now:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Course:
A course for level B1 and above. A great opportunity to learn French for those who have already completed the beginner level. The course is taught entirely in French.
TV5Monde Lessons:
This platform offers more than 500 lessons at various levels. The website interface is entirely in French. The automatic Google Translate feature can help with site translation if your knowledge level is insufficient.
Free German Language Learning
Most German-speaking regions in Switzerland make learning German one of the most relevant tasks for Ukrainians. So please take advantage of our selection to improve your language skills.
Free Basic German Course by Olga Libentrit
Olga is a Ukrainian living in Berlin for over nine years and fluent in German at level C1. She has studied not only in Germany but also in Switzerland. She has developed many courses, one of which is free.
Free Online Courses by Deutsche Welle
Courses, news, and music programs at levels A1-C1 from DW are suitable for those learning German at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. They also provide teaching materials and specialized news for German teachers.
Jicki
These are free courses for Ukrainians learning German and Germans wanting to learn Ukrainian. You can learn on the website.
Or download the apps:
Babbel
This extensive language resource has opened free courses for Ukrainians since the beginning of the full-scale war. To gain access, you must indicate Ukrainian as your native language and choose the interface language. In addition to German, Polish, and English are also available for learning. You can download the app here:
Deutsch-lernen
Great free online courses for beginners. Here you will find basic grammar lessons, simple and advanced exercises to reinforce your knowledge and videos. You can try it by following the Link to the website:
We hope you find the courses that suit you best and that the language-learning process will accelerate, improve, and bring you joy. Happy learning and integration!
