Germany
Why Study in Germany ?
To enroll in a German study program, you must provide proof of German language proficiency.
However, for international study programs where classes are typically conducted in English, this requirement may not apply. If you are studying in Germany for just one or two semesters, some universities may allow enrollment without a German language certificate. It’s always best to check with the university directly. Regardless, knowing German can be highly beneficial—it helps you make friends, adapt faster, and improves your job prospects.
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German tests for university admission
There are two tests you can take to prove your knowledge of German:
- TestDaF – test of German as a foreign language
- the "Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer Studienbewerber" (DSH)
Some German universities offer the TestDaF test, others the DSH test. Both are of equal rank and are recognised at all universities.
What Do You Have To Do In The DSH and TESTDAF Tests?
The DSH and TestDaF exams consist of four sections: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, spoken expression, and written expression. Candidates must respond to questions related to academic texts and journalistic articles. In the written section, students are typically required to analyze diagrams or statistical data and discuss topics relevant to university life. The TestDaF is conducted six times annually at designated test centers in over 90 countries, including Germany. Comprehensive details can be found through the TestDaF Institute. You can only take the DSH exam at universities in Germany. In most institutions, this is permitted only if you have already secured university admission. The format and content of the DSH exam vary between universities. For information on sample tests, exam schedules, registration procedures, and fees, visit the TestDaF website or contact the language center or International Office of your chosen university. Exam fees vary by country. In Germany, the TestDaF costs between 150 and 175 euros, while in Russia or Romania, it is priced at 130 euros. The DSH exam, which is only available in Germany, costs approximately 100 to 130 euros.
You Do Not Have To Take A Language Test Of You Have Passed One of The Following:
- The "Sprachdiplom" (Level II) of the "Kultusministerkonferenz" (KMK)
- The assessment test of a Studienkolleg preparatory course.
- The "Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom", or the Goethe Institute's former tests "Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom" (KDS), "Großes Deutsche Sprachdiplom" (GDS) or "Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung" (ZOP)
- Abitur" at a German school abroad,
How proficient do you have to be in German?
During your studies, you must comprehend complex texts and lectures and be able to write and communicate at an academic level. To achieve this, your German proficiency should be at B2/C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference. This typically equates to 700 to 1,000 hours of German instruction or an intermediate score on the TestDaF (TDN 4) and DSH (DSH-2) exams. To determine the exact language requirements for your chosen program or specific subjects, reach out to the International Office of your selected university. Additionally, you can check the language proficiency portal for details on university-specific requirements.
Test your German yourself!
You might be better at German than you think! You can check your language skills with a free online self-assessment test, which evaluates your proficiency on a scale from A1 to C2. Institutions like the Goethe Institute and Deutsche Welle offer such tests. Additionally, the free TestDaF practice test helps assess your likelihood of passing the official exam. If you need an internationally recognized certification, the OnDaF test (available for a fee) can be taken at test centers worldwide.
How to improve your German before studying in Germany
You can prepare for German language tests in your home country. Many test centers and Goethe Institutes offer training courses for the TestDaF exam. Additionally, you can explore German courses available at your university. DAAD lecturers at various universities in your country can also assist in finding a suitable language course. If no language course is available near you, consider online courses. For those preparing to study in Germany, Deutsch-Uni-Online is a great option and is free for DAAD scholarship holders. Another useful resource is the eTandem portal, which connects language learners worldwide.