If you don't know the language well, is studying abroad still a good idea?

It varies based on the program and what you're intending to get out of it. Some study abroad programs are language immersion programs and specifically target students with low levels of language knowledge. Other programs have you taking classes in the foreign language with native speakers or working in the foreign country, and so they expect more language proficiency.

Think about what you want to get out of it most. There's the cultural component, but what else do you want to do that you can't do at home? Some people really want to live with a host family and be immersed in the other language/culture; others prefer an environment more similar to the university model in the US. Some people want to travel while they are there; others want to work, volunteer, etc. Then do your research on programs, either through your school or others, that appear to be established (i.e., safe, well-coordinated) and a good match for your goals.

+1 on what everyone has already said - go for it! aside from soaking up culture and language it's a great experience to travel as a student, get out of your comfort zone and gain new perspectives. My time studying abroad in Paris was amazing - I got to visit many other countries in Europe, make a lot of friends from all over the world and experience things I never would've been exposed to had I just stayed home.

Another often overlooked aspect of studying abroad is that typically it can be positive for your grades and GPA as well - being immersed in an academic program gives you a lot of time to focus on your studies and the classes you're taking, and generally if you're taking courses in an international university as a study abroad student they're not too hard on you ;) That's not to say the grades are totally inflated, it depends on the program and of course the effort you put into it, but it's unusual for someone to bomb all of their classes while studying abroad under normal circumstances ;)

I confirm what Jenn said, very important to understand what you want to get out of this experience so you can plan accordingly. Germany is probably one of the safest place in Europe but looking for strong programs is important to guarantee the results and your safety.
This said... go! Traveling and getting to know different cultures will open your mind. While you are in Germany try to visit France, Spain, Italy etc. In Europe there is a program called Interrail (http://www.interrail.eu/interrail-passes/global-pass) very cheap train ticket you can travel across 30 countries in Europe.
Maybe you find out you like French or Italian or Dutch and decide to pursue that in college or simply you will get to know amazing (and less amazing) people that will help you grow.
The journey is the reward my friend.

HI there, I think if you have the opportunity and it makes sense within your career plans I would always recommend doing it as it adds so much value to your personal development, learning about other cultures, getting to know many different people, getting along on your own in a different country, culture and language environment, it is an experience you will always have with you so I would definitely encourage everyone to do it and there are a lot of different programs to support with that. I did study one semester abroad as part of my studies at university as I studied English French and economics and I spent one semester in Paris which was a great time, and you learn so much in that time! So yes I would recommend it for sure!

One answer to this, do it! Studying and working abroad will really broaden your horizons and open doors for you in your future career. International experience will always be attractive to employers and language skills on top of that is definitely a plus.

One tip if you do end up studying / working in Germany or any another country for that matter, don't just stick with the English-speaking groups, branch out and make friends who are from that country. This will not only help your language skills, but will give you a much better insight into the country's culture. Experiences like this will really stand to you in your future career and life path you choose.

Yes, it is definitely a good idea to study abroad. You will not even get a better grasp of the language but you will also understand the culture of the people that speak it which is an important part of knowing a language. Living abroad will broaden your horizon and give you a new perspective while you make new acquaintances and friends in this country. It is an experience I strongly recommend to everyone and it will definitely give you an advantage in your career.

I strongly recommend it, even if you don't know the language. If it is a possibility for you, definitely do your research it. You can learn the language and until the words come more freely, people are generally nice enough to help you out with those phrases that get "stuck". Being able to learn about different cultures around the globe is priceless and you may never have this opportunity again. The traditions you learn about could be things you may love enough to bring home to your family and perhaps even pass along to your children.

I studied abroad my Junior year of college through the 'Junior Year in Munich' program at Wayne State University. That experience helped me grow in so many ways but most importantly it brought me in touch with other cultures - many of which view life much differently.

I highly encourage that experience for all of the reasons already mentioned!

For me there is no question about it: Take any opportunity to study abroad, if you already know the language or not (though it helps if you can get around in that language). As others here have mentioned the value of being immersed in another culture, the new friends you will make and the new perspectives you will gain are priceless.
I spent one year in Paris after High School and one semester in Brazil during college (besides many exchange program trips to England and Portugal) and some of those experiences are among the most memorable one's of my life.
It might be helpful for you to know that many universities offer study-abroad-programs that are integrated into your own curriculum and some of them are even taught in English. But even if you have to add a year before, during or after, the "value" you will get out of it for yourself and also for your professional life (working abroad later on?) cannot be measured.