The University Language Centre (ZFA)

The University Language Centre (ZFA) is the central access point for all students and members of the RUB who wish to learn a new language or improve their existing skills. We also offer professional guidance regarding the use of foreign languages in an academic or professional context.
Currently, RUB students and staff members can join skills-based group courses in 15 different languages. Alternatively, we offer tailor-made individual training sessions.

We offer:

• An integrated course structure which complies with the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFL).
• Specific Purpose language courses created in close cooperation with the faculties to meet their needs and the needs of their students.
• Practical, skills-based courses in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Swedish, Spanish and Turkish.
• An extensive guidance and coaching programme, specifically geared towards individual and self-directed learning.
• Special tailor-made courses for RUB staff members, in cooperation with the Administrative Department of Organizational and Professional Development.
• Regular exchange programmes in cooperation with overseas partners, especially in the field of tandem learning.
• A testing centre for standardised internationally recognised language examinations such as IELTS, DELE, CNaVT, DELF/DALF, SWEDEX and Tisus. We are also accredited for university specific certification systems such as UNIcert®.
• Professional guidance for faculties, facilities and project groups across the RUB on issues related to specific training for special target groups.
   

Summer Semester 2025

Examination dates
You will find an overview of the exam dates as well as important information on the exam modalities and formats in the section End-of-course Exams.

Please note that the individual parts of the listening comprehension, oral examination and written production (including reading comprehension) are spread over several dates in most languages.

Winter Semester 2025/26

Course duration
20.10.2025 - 31.01.2026
Christmas break (lecture-free period) from 22.12.2025 to 06.01.2026

You can find our list of courses for the winter semester 2024/25 here

How to register

Online consultation Link to chat here

Placement test
Dates and further information can be found here.

Personal consultation
Further information can be found in the right-hand-column..

Registration deadline
15.09.2025, 00:01 am to 16.10.2025, 12:00 am
RUB students can only register via eCampus. Students from other universities (including UA Ruhr students) must apply via the application form linked here. Please read the instructions on the page carefully.

Examination dates
You will find an overview of the exam dates as well as important information on the exam modalities and formats in the section End-of-course Exams.

Please note that the individual parts of the listening comprehension, oral examination and written production (including reading comprehension) are spread over several dates in most languages.