German Language Proficiency Test 2026

Last Updated on February 25, 2026

Those students who want to study abroad Germany will find this guide useful. Language requirements assume a lot of importance when you are vying for a seat at a foreign university. Germany is one of the nations which has been seeing a steady influx of students from across the globe. Although English-taught courses are common at German universities, if you are going for special courses, the language helps. 

In this blog, we will highlight the features surrounding the German Language Proficiency Test. Know about the requirements, levels of study, certifications, prep and more for international students. 

Language Proficiency In German Higher Education

If you are a study abroad in Germany aspirant, then you may already know about the various English-taught and German-taught courses there. The choice of university is particularly important here. Certain courses are again offered in a particular language. In German universities, the factors determining language proficiency are:

• Language certification 
• Diploma, Degree or last eligible qualification, where the classes were all in English, German or other. 

Those students who have attended some courses in a foreign language will also be considered on the basis of proficiency in the same. 

What Are The German Language Requirements For The Different Levels Of Study In Germany?

You will be able to access a wide range of courses at various levels in Germany. Let us find out the German language proficiency, based on that. 

• Undergraduate Courses – One has to show at least a C1 level of German language proficiency or DSH II to pursue a bachelor’s course in German. Some universities in Germany do accept B2 if you join a language course before you start the main course. 
• Postgraduate Courses – Master’s level courses in the German language usually require a C1 level language proficiency. However, some may even consider the B2 level if one takes a preparatory course beforehand. 
• Doctoral Courses – Many PhD courses are in English, especially the ones in science and technical fields. Apart from that, the supervisor decides proficiency levels. 

What Are The Recognized German Language Certificates For University Admission?

Thus, if you are planning to head to Germany to pursue a course, know about the various options available. 

• C1 Level Proficiency – This is a broad level which covers academics and professional levels, as well. Those who pass this level are believed to have a high level of proficiency across all parameters of the language. 
• DSH I Level Proficiency – This is more focused on academic requirements. 
• Goethe-Zertifikat C2 – It is equal to the C2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It means that you have mastered German on an advanced level. 
• ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) – This is an Austria-based German language test. You can opt for various levels, like A1 to C2. It is recognised in Austria and Germany. 
• TestDaF – It is one of the most common German language proficiency tests. Almost all the universities in Germany accept it. The scores are basically divided into two levels, TDN 3 to TDN 5. Most German universities accept TDN 4. 

What Are The Recognized English Language Certificates For University Admission In Germany?

Amazingly, Germany’s universities offer a wide range of English-taught courses. The recognised tests to prove the same are:

• Completion of the B1 or B2 level from an English school
• IELTS scores of B1 Level or B2 Level
• TOEFL scores: Paper-based (B1 and B2 levels), computer-based test 130 – 70 (B1 and B2 levels); Internet-based test 60-80 (B1 and B2 levels)
• Cambridge English Certificates (starting from B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, to C2 Proficiency)
• TOEIC certificate
• UNIcert minimum level I (B1) or II (B2)
• University qualifications from an English-speaking country

What Are The General German Language Proficiency Test Levels According To CEFR? 

The accepted German Language Proficiency Test levels according to CEFR are:

• A1: Beginner
• A2: Elementary
• B1: Intermediate
• B2: Upper intermediate
• C1: Advanced
• C2: Proficient

For most university admissions, you need a German language certificate that is equivalent to the B2 level. At the graduate level, some of the institutions require C1. At the higher levels, like Doctorate, C2 is desirable. 

Meeting the German language exam requirement is just one part of the application. You need to meet other requirements as well. Check with a renowned study abroad consultant for the same. 

How To Prepare For A German Language Test?

Students who are looking for information on the German Language Proficiency Test, must note that there are different skill sets required for different tests. Moreover, you need to have skills across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Here are a few helpful tips to get you started. 

• Refer to study materials, like ‘Sicher’. This is for advanced learners. There are quite a few online resources like Babbel and Duolingo. 
• It is a good idea to sign up for a formal German language course. You can join the Goethe-Institut, which offers courses at all levels. 
• Students aspiring to study in Germany should take mock tests. TestDaF or telc Deutsch offer sample tests. 
• Focus on all the skills, i.e. reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 
• You should be able to manage time as well. Create a routine dividing the time between all four skills. 

If you want more clarity on the German Language Proficiency, connect with a study abroad counsellor. 

German Language Test Costs And Registration Process

Knowing the cost of the courses and registration makes things easier. So, let us delve right in. 

• TestDaF: €150 to €195, depending on the location.
• DSH: Ranges between €100 and €200.
• Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Starts at €200.
• Telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule: Costs approximately €150 to €180.
• ÖSD: Prices range between €150 and €200.

You must do the registration online for most of the above. 

• You must create an account on the official test site. 
• Select the preferred examination time and date. 
• Pay the required fees.
• Receive confirmation of the exam date and booking. 

Make sure to stay up-to-date with the dates and timelines. 

What Is The Validity of the German Language Proficiency Test?

• TestDaF: It does not have an expiry date. 
• DSH: It is valid for a lifetime.
• Goethe-Zertifikat: It is of indefinite validity. 
• Telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule: It does not have an expiry date.
• ÖSD: Stays valid indefinitely.

You should ensure that the German language proficiency test certificates in place. It may be required at various stages throughout your study abroad journey. 

What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Required Language Level?

There are various aspects surrounding the German Language Proficiency Test. And one is, the path you need to take, if you can’t take or pass an examination. 

• Pre-sessional German Language courses which are preparatory courses. 
• Language schools in Germany, where you can take courses outside the university. 
• Language learning apps are also there for your rescue. 
• Retake the test if required.

Conclusion

So, now you have a fair idea of the German Language Proficiency Test. Make sure to stay abreast of the norms governing various institutions. It is always a better option to ask for assistance from an advisor in the educational field, like Admissify. You can avail complete information on the universities, German language requirements and more. You will be able to connect with Admissify any time, through any mode of communication. 

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