Enrolling with the German Academy Zurich isn’t just a great option if you need to know how to overcome FIDE test anxiety–it also gives you access to in-person, private tutoring from an experienced language professional and ensures you have all the skills you need to meet the required standards in written and spoken German.
The best approach to the FIDE test is to focus on the quality and scope of your study. Most expats opt for our A1 beginner course to start with and then progress through A2 and B1 programs until they have a fantastic knowledge of day-to-day phrases, vocabulary, and grammar.
We often speak with new clients who are worried about how to practice for Swiss FIDE test questions, but the main priority is to gain confidence, be comfortable speaking and writing independently, and know that you have a certified linguistic level that will help you pass the test.
How Do I Get Ready for the German FIDE Exam in Switzerland?
FIDE tests check whether expats who want to become long-term residents or citizens of German-speaking Switzerland have a sufficient grasp of the language to integrate into their local communities and manage all the interactions and conversations they’ll have every day. Studying for the FIDE exam, even if you’re not planning to apply for some time, is worthwhile.
Completing the visa application documents and liaising with real estate agents, legal representatives, and banking officials as part of your permanent move is significantly easier when you have a good level of German. Some of our clients even start studying their A1 course well before moving to Switzerland, which ensures that they can speak and converse in simple German when they arrive. This is a smart move that makes settling down in a new country far faster and easier.
Getting started with the relevant course, which may depend on your current level of German linguistic ability, as soon as you decide to accept a job offer, for instance, or apply for a residency permit renewal, gives you more time to study, more opportunities to practice speaking with your tutor, and more scope to work on your confidence before the exam.
Do I Need to Pass a German A1 Linguistic Course to Take the Swiss FIDE Exam?
There is often confusion about the varied pathways to gaining a formal certification in German. Still, you don’t necessarily need to complete an A1-certified program before you become eligible to take the FIDE exam.
However, it is very normal for expats to do so because there isn’t a specific FIDE exam course, and it’s up to you to find an experienced, high-quality tuition provider with the knowledge to prepare you for the FIDE test.
How German Language Programs From the German Academy Zurich Prepare You for the FIDE German Test
Assuming you’re starting at the beginner level, our A1 course is the best place to begin because:
- Programs designed by the German Academy Zurich are tailored towards professionals, students, and expats. They are available at all levels to ensure your tuition is at the right difficulty level for you.
- Swiss German differs from standard German, which means it is strongly advisable you study for the FIDE test with a local provider to avoid any potential issues.
- We combine online course materials you can access at your convenience, alongside practice exercises to familiarize you with the test format and structure, and personalized private lessons with your very own German tutor.
Once you have completed your course, you’ll have confirmation that you have met the standards to achieve A1 German, which is often a requirement for local employers. You can then continue building your knowledge and confidence up to B1 and beyond.
