FAQs

Can I borrow materials if I live outside of Toronto?

Yes, please contact the library regarding the material you need and we will arrange for it to be shipped to any destination in Canada. You, the borrower, are responsible for shipping the material back to the Goethe-Institut Toronto.

Does the Goethe-Institut Toronto Library accept donations of books or other material?

No, due to our very limited space and our collection development policy we are unable to accept donations of any kind. If you have German books or other media you would like to donate, please contact your local public library or the Toronto German School (children's books).

Can I, as a Canadian, apply for project or travel funds for my project in Germany?

No. The Goethe-Institut Toronto plans and organizes cultural projects related to Germany in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In addition, we arrange selected programs and stipends for Canadian arts experts to travel to Germany.
Please contact the Canadian Embassy in Berlin regarding all questions about Canadian projects in Germany.

Can I, as a German, apply for project or travel funds for my project in Canada?

No. The Goethe-Institut Toronto organizes its own programs and events together with local Canadian organisations and partners. 
In contrast to various foundations and the Canadian councils, the Goethe-Institut is not a funding body and does not grant subsidies or provides sponsorship.
New ideas for German-Canadian projects or events are welcome. Please approach us well in advance (at least 12 months).

What is the focus of the Goethe-Institut’s cultural programs?

The mandate of the Goethe-Institut is to present important positions, ideas and arts practices of the contemporary German and European culture scenes to Canadians.

Our focus themes 2011-14

  • City & Climate
  • Culture & Economy
  • German film

We also organise several residencies for German artists and experts together with our local partners, offer international liaison work and consulting as well as promote European cultural understanding, e.g. through our cooperation with other European cultural institutes across Canada.

Please also read our Principles of Co-operation.

Who are the target audiences of our cultural programs?

Being an independent organization and the official cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany, we primarily address culturally interested Canadians, such as artists and curators, experts, opinion leaders and academics, students and other young adults, as well as the general public.
The Goethe-Institut does not represent expatriates or German citizens abroad. If you have consular inquiries, please contact your German consulate or embassy. In addition you will find several German networks and heritage organisations in Canada. 

Does the Goethe-Institut Toronto provides space for exhibitions, concerts or film screenings?

No. Our library and classrooms do only allow small events like lectures or workshops.
Most of the other events take place at partner organisations.

Do I need to come in person to register for a German language class?

No, you don’t. If you are a beginner or have taken classes with us before and you know what level of German knowledge you have, you can register online by filling out the registration form and sending it to us: Online Registration

Can I pay online when I register for a course?

No, you can mail us a cheque or call us and pay by credit card over the phone (Visa or Mastercard).

Can I buy the books for my class at the Goethe-Institut?

Yes, you can purchase the books during the first week of the classes, a representative from Goethe Books sells the books here. Otherwise contact Goethe Books directly: info@goethebooks.com or call +1 416 266 4638.

Are Goethe-Institut courses recognized as credit courses?

No, our courses are not recognized as high school or university credit courses, but we offer a number of examinations which are a proof of proficiency in German. The exams are of great importance to you if you are planning to study or work in Germany. For further information see: Examinations

Do you offer German classes for children?

No, we don’t. Our classes are designed for students 16 years old and up.

Can I write a placement test to have my knowledge of German assessed?

Yes. Please contact us to make an appointment for taking the placement test.

Contact

Goethe-Institut Toronto
100 University Ave., North Tower,
Suite 201, mailbox #136
Toronto, Ontario, M5J 1V6
Canada
phone: +1 416 5935257
fax: +1 416 5935145
info@toronto.goethe.org
www.goethe.de/toronto
Directions

Media Coverage Online

of the Goethe-Institut Toronto

Weblog: Goethe Satellite Vancouver

German and Canadian artists and curators in the Goethe Satellite Vancouver are keeping you posted about their artistic bridge projects on Canada’s west coast.