Germany: Outbound language travel grew again in 2024
- Germany’s language travel association estimates that 70,000 German student went abroad for language study in 2024
- Overall growth in outbound language travel is estimated at 15% between 2023 and 2024, with most students choosing to study within Europe
The 2024 annual report from the German Association of Language Travel Organizers (FDSV) reports continuing growth for the year in outbound language travel. FDSV estimates that there were 53 language travel providers operating in Germany during the year, and that they collectively supported 70,000 students in their language studies abroad.
The following market analysis is based on an annual survey administered by FDSV in spring 2025. The survey attracted 15 responses from members, representing roughly 28% of the total German market.
The survey findings indicate year-over-year growth of 15% in 2024, with the average language learning trip lasting 10 days at an average cost of €1,376. Germany's outbound market is split evenly between adult and junior learners. "Overall, the need for language education remains unbroken," says FDSV. "After the limitations of recent years, many people long to learn not only one language, but to experience it directly on the spot in their natural environment. This development underlines the importance of language travel as a valuable educational and cultural experience."
Where do they go?
Most adult learners went abroad to study English (42%), with Spanish, which accounted for just over 27% of adult language travel, in second place. In comparison, virtually all junior outbound from Germany (92%) was focused on English study in 2024.
The UK remains the leading destination for German language learners, and was the destination of choice for 16.5% of adult learners and 73% of juniors. Other top destinations for German students include Ireland and Malta.
"A clearly recognisable trend shows that demand is increasingly focusing on European destinations," adds FDSV. "In addition to shorter travel routes, which are often perceived as more comfortable, the topic of sustainability is also increasingly playing a role. More and more participants are placing emphasis on environmentally conscious travel, making nearby destinations more attractive. This deliberate shift towards more sustainable travel decisions could have an impact on the entire industry in the long run."
FDSV's outlook for 2025 highlights that security and economic concerns will continue to have a big impact on German language travel in the year ahead, particularly the war in Ukraine, global economic uncertainty, and the political climate in the United States. "The issue of security plays a central role, especially among young language travellers. Parents carefully consider whether the current security situation allows [the safe] journey of their child," adds the association.
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