UNIcert®: A training and certification program

A UNIcert® certificate confirms academically-oriented language skills and is helpful for job applications, study abroad programs, or university admission. In addition to general language skills, the courses also teach skills relevant to academic and professional life, such as giving presentations, participating in discussions, or writing academic papers in the chosen language.

UNIcert® is an established university certificate and is accepted by many universities and institutions in Germany and abroad as proof of language proficiency. Since the UNIcert® levels are linked to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the level achieved can also be easily classified internationally.

UNIcert® comprises several levels based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

• UNIcert® Basic – corresponds to CEFR Level A2

• UNIcert® I – corresponds to CEFR Level B1

• UNIcert® II – corresponds to CEFR Level B2

• UNIcert® III – corresponds to CEFR Level C1

Accordingly, the requirements for language proficiency and academic communication skills increase with each UNIcert® level.
 

The SZHB currently offers several UNIcert® programs for various languages and proficiency levels:

· UNIcert® Basic (A2) for Italian, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Swedish

· UNIcert® I (B1) for English, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Swedish

· UNIcert® II (B2) for (academic or subject-specific) English

· UNIcert® III (C1) for (academic or subject-specific) English

The courses are specifically designed for an academic context and cover topics such as academic writing, presentations, and subject-specific communication.
 

UNIcert® courses at the SZHB are primarily intended for students at public universities in the Land of Bremen. Staff members, prospective students, and guest students may also participate in the courses.

With the exception of the lowest level (UNIcert® Basic), specific language proficiency is required for all levels. The exact requirements depend on the respective level. Before selecting a course, the SZHB recommends a placement test so that participants can choose the appropriate course. Those who can already demonstrate relevant language proficiency (including from other contexts) can often enter higher-level courses directly.

Yes. If you already have the appropriate language skills, you can usually enter a more advanced section of a UNIcert® program directly by providing proof of these skills. Further information on the courses required for each UNIcert® level, as well as the options and requirements for joining the program at a higher level, can be found on the respective UNIcert® subpages of the SZHB website under “My Path to the UNIcert® Certificate.”

· UNIcert® Basis (A2)

· UNIcert® I (B1)

· UNIcert® II (B2)

· UNIcert® III (C1)

If you still have questions about the appropriate entry level, the instructors or the responsible coordinators at the SZHB will be happy to advise you.

The time required varies, as it depends on your starting level and the level you wish to achieve. A certificate level consists of several courses that build on each other. At the SZHB, you can study either alongside your regular semester courses or in intensive courses during the break between semesters. If you have questions about planning your course progression, please contact the instructors or coordinators.

Yes. All UNIcert® courses require a minimum attendance rate of 80%. This is a key requirement of the nationwide UNIcert Commission to ensure that the diverse learning objectives and required language competencies are actually achieved.

First, you must register for the relevant language courses at the SZHB. After successfully completing the required courses, you can apply for the UNIcert® certificate or register for the certification exam. Registration is usually done online via the Language Center’s course directory. If you’re unsure which courses are relevant to your goals, the instructors or program coordinators can advise you.

Once you’ve met all requirements, you can apply to the SZHB to have the certificate issued.

For UNIcert® Basic, I, and II, the process is exactly the same as booking a language course. Simply go to the UNIcert® homepage on the SZHB website, search for the certificate registration for your level and desired language, register, and pay the certificate fee. As soon as we have all the information and your certificate has been issued, you will receive a notification regarding where to pick it up.

For UNIcert® III, a special exam is required. When you register for the exam, you automatically apply for the certificate as well. As soon as the exam results are available, your certificate will be issued and you will receive a message with information about where to pick it up.
 

The total cost includes course fees, certificate fees, and, if applicable, exam fees. For students at Universities in the Land of Bremen, language courses cost, for example, €80 (2 SWS) or €160 (4 SWS), depending on the course length. A fee of €5 is charged to issue a UNIcert® certificate; for separate certificate exams (e.g., UNIcert® III), an additional exam fee of €30 is charged.

Overview of fees at the SZHB for all status groups

Independent study is a central component of the UNIcert® courses at the SZHB. The language courses combine classroom instruction, guided independent study, and self-directed learning. As a result, a significant portion of the learning takes place outside of class—for example, through preparation and follow-up work, exercises, or independent study. The goal is to develop language skills in a sustainable way and to gradually take on more personal responsibility for the learning process.

Instructors will provide details on the specific scope and structure of this in each course.