The level of German required for your studies depends on various factors, such as whether you are an exchange student or a regular student, and whether your study program is conducted in German (as most programs are) or in English. For exchange students, a certain level of German language proficiency may be required, depending on the exchange agreement or the conditions of the external scholarship agency. Generally, German language proficiency of at least B1, preferably B2 (GERS/CEFR), is recommended for participation and successful completion of courses. Regular students in a German-language program should check the Freie Universität Berlin website for language requirements.

In any case, it will be very helpful for you to have at least a basic knowledge of German. The DAAD offers information about language courses in Germany and other ways to improve your German.

The Language Center of Freie Universität offers German courses for language levels A1 and higher. Places in beginner courses (A1) are primarily reserved for exchange students; it is often difficult for MA students from English-language programs to obtain a place here. In any case, registration before the start of the semester is required; you also have to take the OnDaF online placement test to determine which course level from A2 to C1 is right for you. For more information about the courses and the application process check here for further information.

The Language Center also has a Center for Independent Language Learning. Here, there are also numerous materials for German as a foreign language that can be used on site, e.g., textbooks, literature, German films, and online resources. 

If you are a beginner (A1), there are several options outside of Freie Universität Berlin:

1. The Language and Culture Exchange of the Technical University of Berlin offers a good selection of German courses at a good price-performance ratio. Read more here
2. Adult and continuing education institutions in Berlin also offer language courses. In addition to numerous private language schools, we recommend the Volkshochschule, which offers German courses for all levels and has branches in every district of Berlin. You can also register for the "integration courses" offered to newcomers at all branches, so you can choose the one closest to where you live. Applicants take a short test and are then assigned to the correct level.
3. Search the Internet for one of the many private schools in Berlin; the Language Center of Freie Universität (see above) can provide you with a list of possible options.