Exams to Study in Germany

One of the first steps to boost your chances of getting into top universities in Germany is to take the required entrance exams. These may include international standardized language tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, TESTDaF, or DSH, and aptitude exams tailored to your undergraduate or postgraduate level. Usually, these exams vary based on your academic qualifications, your chosen course, and your university.

Germany stands as an ideal destination for Indian and international students, offering world-class universities, diverse full-time, part-time, and regular programs, abundant research opportunities, and affordable tuition fees with top faculties. To pursue studies in Germany, students must complete relevant exams based on university requirements.   Let’s explore the exams required to study in Germany in detail.

Exams needed to study in Germany

International students applying to German universities are required to take two types of exams.

• Language Proficiency Test
• Aptitude Exam

Language proficiency tests must be taken according to the chosen language of instruction, while aptitude exams vary depending on the level of degree being pursued.

Language Proficiency test

Most of the courses offered by German Universities are taught in English. These universities typically accept one or more of the following English language tests.

IELTS – International English Language Testing System

The IELTS conducted by IDP Education is a globally recognized standardized test that assesses English proficiency for non-native English speakers, especially those seeking to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. In addition to facilitating admission to German universities, IELTS unlocks opportunities in more than 140 countries, including the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

IELTS covers four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, each scored individually, with a combined average giving the overall band score. IELTS is offered as both a paper-based and computer-based test, providing flexibility in test-taking methods. Scores range from 0 to 9, with most universities requiring a minimum of 6.0 to 7.0 bands, depending on the program's requirements. The IELTS is a prerequisite for the German DAAD scholarship.

The test results are valid for two years from the test date; thereafter, candidates may need to retake it if required for admissions or visa applications. The results are accessible three to five days after a computer-based test and thirteen days after a paper-based test.

TOEFL – Test of English as Foreign Language

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test conducted by Educational Testing Services (ETS), USA. It is used to assess English language proficiency for non-native speakers and is widely accepted by universities as an alternative to the IELTS. The aim of the test is to check a person's ability to understand and communicate in standard North American English.

The exam includes reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections, and the TOEFLiBT (TOEFL Internet-based) test can be taken at the test center or home. TOEFL scores are valid for two years, with a minimum score requirement usually around 80-90 for most universities. The score is accessible within six days of the exam date. You can present your highest scores from tests taken within the last two years to universities in Germany where you’re applying. However, students should verify specific requirements, as some universities may prefer one test over the other.

PTE - Pearson Test of English

The PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test designed to assess non-native English speakers' speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. Conducted by Pearson PLC Group, the PTE is widely recognized by universities, colleges, and governments around the world as proof of English proficiency for study, work, and visa applications.

To enroll in a course where the medium of instruction is German, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency in German. The following exams can serve as proof of your German language skills.

TestDaF - Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache / Test of German as a second language

The TestDaF conducted by the TestDaF-Institut in Bochum, Germany is a standardized German language proficiency test designed for non-native speakers applying to German universities. The exam covers reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills, assessed on levels ranging from TDN 3 to TDN 5, with TDN 4 generally required for admission. TestDaF can be taken at designated test centers worldwide or online, and scores are valid indefinitely, making it a versatile choice for students planning to study in Germany.

The TestDaF assesses your readiness to attend courses primarily taught in German. Since its launch in 2001, it has gained a strong reputation as a reliable test for German language proficiency. The test is currently offered six times a year at approximately 450 test centers across 90 countries.

DSH - Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang

The DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) is another German language proficiency test similar to TestDaF. The test is administered by individual universities, with each institution tailoring the exam to meet its specific academic standards and requirements.

It assesses language skills needed to study German language courses, with listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections. You must pass the written section of the DSH before taking the oral portion. Both sections must be completed in order to obtain your DSH certificate. It is a university-specific exam that students take at the university before the start of the semester they plan to join.

Scores are categorized as DSH-1, DSH-2, or DSH-3, with DSH-2 generally required for admission to most programs. The certificate is valid for a lifetime, demonstrating a level of proficiency suited for higher education.

Goethe Certificate C2

The Goethe Certificate C2 conducted by The Goethe-Institut is an advanced German language proficiency exam designed for non-native speakers, indicating the highest level (C2) of fluency as per the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

The exam evaluates reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills and is typically conducted at Goethe-Institut centers or authorized testing sites worldwide.  A minimum score of 60 out of 100 is required in each of the four exam modules. Each skill section must be passed with a minimum score to earn the certificate, which remains valid indefinitely as proof of language proficiency. This certificate is widely recognized for academic, professional, and residency purposes in German-speaking regions.

OSD Certificate C2

The OSD Certificate C2 is another advanced German language proficiency exam similar to the Goethe Certificate C2. It focuses on both general German and region-specific language variants (Austrian, Swiss, and German).  The exam evaluates four skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. The ÖSD Certificate C2 can be taken at authorized test centers worldwide, with a minimum score of 60% in each section to pass.

The main difference between the ÖSD Certificate C2 and the Goethe Certificate C2 is that the ÖSD includes content reflecting regional and cultural variations, making it especially suitable for individuals seeking work in Austria or Switzerland. ÖSD certificates are accepted as proof of German language proficiency by all Austrian universities and German universities.

Aptitude Test to study in Germany

When applying to German universities, aptitude tests play a crucial role in admissions, with each university setting its unique criteria. The format and requirements of these tests vary depending on the institution and the specific degree program students aim to pursue. Here’s an overview of the common tests required for students planning to study in Germany.

GRE – Graduate Record Examination

The GRE conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) is an aptitude and entrance test widely accepted by top institutions, especially for students applying to engineering and postgraduate programs. It is a widely used test to evaluate applicants for business, law, and graduate programs globally. GRE scores are often mandatory, and passing this test is essential for admission to many higher education institutions. Additionally, certain universities might require you to take a GRE subject test.

The GRE is a computer-based exam taken at designated test centers and requires approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.

It includes three sections: analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. GRE scores are valid for five years and are widely accepted for admission to both business and management programs, in addition to general graduate studies.  Scores are available 8 to 10 days after the GRE test date and can be accessed through the test taker's ETS account.

GMAT – Graduate Management Admission test

The GMAT conducted by the Graduate Management Aptitude Council is an aptitude test designed to assess the skills of individuals, particularly those aiming to pursue an MBA in Germany. Thousands of students take this exam every year in order to be eligible for different management programs. The GMAT costs USD 275 and is preferred by many German business and management schools. The average GMAT score requirement at German business schools is typically around 640.

The GMAT is divided into four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. Scores are available 7 to 20 days after completing the test, and results are valid for five years. However, it’s important to verify specific test requirements with each institution before starting your preparation, as some may prefer the GMAT while others favor the GRE.

JEE – Joint Entrance Examination

The JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) is required for undergraduate students seeking admission to top engineering colleges. Recognized as the primary entrance exam for engineering programs, JEE consists of two stages: JEE Main and JEE Advanced, covering subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. JEE Main is conducted twice a year, in January and April, while JEE Advanced is held once a year in June. The test results are valid for the current admission cycle only.

FAQ

1. Which exams are required to study in Germany?

The entrance exams required for Indian students to study in Germany include IELTS or TOEFL for English language proficiency and TestDaF or DSH for German proficiency. For aptitude tests, JEE Advanced or FSP scores are needed for bachelor’s programs, while GMAT or GRE scores are required for master’s courses.

2. Is GRE or IELTS required for Germany?

Yes. IELTS is a well-known English language proficiency exam necessary for obtaining a German student visa. However, you can opt for either the TestDaF (German proficiency test) or IELTS, depending on the language of instruction for your course. The required IELTS band score for a German student visa typically ranges from 4.5 to 6.5. A GRE is also required for students pursuing postgraduate programs.

3. Can I study in Germany without JEE?

No, if you are applying for a bachelor's degree program after completing class 12 from an Indian, Bhutanese, or Nepalese school, you cannot study in Germany without JEE Advanced.

4. How can I go to Germany to study after 12th?

Germany's undergraduate programs have specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. This includes obtaining a minimum of 90% in the 12th-grade examination, passing a university entrance examination, and demonstrating language proficiency through a test.

5. Is IELTS mandatory for study in Germany?

Yes, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is necessary for applying for a German student visa, unless you are enrolling in a course that is taught in German.