What Level of German is Required to Study in Germany?

Germany remains one of the top choices for international students who are keen on pursuing studies there. Zero-tuition fee at public universities and affordable living costs increase the attractiveness quotient further. You must have already noticed a steady influx of international students in Germany. So, leaving aside English-taught courses, the query ‘what level of German is required to study in Germany’ is very common today. 

So, in this blog, we will help you know about German language level requirements, German language tests, various levels, test costs, and how to prepare. 

Yes, knowing German makes your life easy as a student in Germany. Knowing German is essential for students who plan to pursue healthcare, teaching, or law. Level B1 or B2 is considered essential. Then again, the requirements at university and at the workplace also differ. Those students choosing English-taught courses can give this a miss; however, your prospects in Germany increase when you have intermediate knowledge. 

What Level Of German Is Required To Study In Germany – What Decides That?

Let us check the German language requirements at colleges and universities. 

Educational Level	Bachelor’s Courses	Master’s Courses
Language Level	B2/ C1 level	B2 or Higher Level
Utility	Practical use in classrooms, exams, projects B2 Level	Internships, part-time work, networking B1 Level
Miscellaneous	Local Life B1	Local Life B1

Here is a snapshot of the German language requirements at the workplace. 

Part-time work during student life – A2/ B1

Work at retail, malls, and restaurants – Basic Spoken German

• IT – B1
• Engineering – B2
• Healthcare – B2 – C1
• Management – B2

You must be able to communicate clearly at the workplace, rather than just holding a certificate. 

German Language Course Levels – According To CEFR Standards

Level	Meaning	Practical Application
A1	Beginner	Basic phrases, Introductions
A2	Elementary	Daily life, simple conversations
B1	Intermediate	Independent communication
B2	Upper Intermediate	Academic and Professional
C1	Advanced	Native Equivalent/ Work Level

Top Universities In Germany Requiring German Language Proficiency 

• University Of Stuttgart
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• RWTH Aachen University
• Technical University of Munich
• University of Bonn
• Goethe University Frankfurt
• University of Hamburg
• University of Cologne

The above universities also have English-taught programs. 

Which German Language Certificates Are Recognised In Germany?

Indian students aiming to study in Germany must produce language proficiency certificates. Let us understand which tests are considered by the German universities. 

TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)

TestDaF happens to be one of the most recognised German language tests in Germany. 

• Consists of four sections – Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking
• Scores are also divided into levels – TDN 3-5
• You can take the test in over 100 countries
• It is specifically for university admission

DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

• Another widely accepted German language proficiency test for university admissions
• You can take it physically in Germany, only
• It consists of two parts – Written and oral
• The test has three grade levels – DSH 1-3
• Certain universities organise and host this examination

Goethe-Zertifikat C2

• The Goethe-Institut conducts this test
• Equivalent to C2 level
• Consists of reading, listening, writing, and speaking
• It is recognised at universities and workplaces
• Valid indefinitely

Telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule

• Specifically designed for German universities
• Focuses on academic language skills
• Covers sections – reading, writing, listening, speaking 
• Uses a direct pass/ fail system
• Offers flexibility to students in many countries’ test centres online

ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch)

• Austria-based German language test
• Offer proficiency levels A1 – C2
• C1 and C2 are valid for university admissions
• Structure covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking
• Recognised in Germany as well as in Austria
• Offers flexibility in scheduling

The above certificates serve as valid proof of German language proficiency for education and work. Whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, both suffice. 

Cost of German Language Proficiency Tests

After you have ascertained what level of German is required to study in Germany, costs come next. 

German Language Proficiency Test	Cost
TestDaF	€150 to €195
DSH	€100 and €200
Goethe-Zertifikat C2	Starts at €200
telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule	€150 to €180
ÖSD	€150 and €200

You must register online for most of the above tests. The steps involve:

• Creating an account
• Selecting exam date and time
• Paying the fee
• Receiving a confirmation 

Cost of Learning the German Language in India 

Goethe Institut/ Max Mueller Bhavan Offline – INR 23,000 per level

Goethe Institut/ Max Mueller Bhavan Online – INR 10,620 (General) / 28,500 (Intense)

YES Germany – INR 12,000 to 25,000 per level

Find out which one suits you, and seek admission with time in hand. 

Tip To Learn German Quickly

If you want to enrol at a prestigious German university, you must build German language skills. Although many universities have both English-taught and German-taught courses, many do not. It also varies according to the level of education you are applying for. 

Here we have listed a few tips to crack the language easily. 

• Start with the basic alphabet, just like in English. Check online and Duolingo
• Take proper courses from places like the Goethe Institut
• Watch German podcasts and shows
• Practice speaking and writing
• Book your examination date early, as seats fill up fast

Pro Tip: Many universities offer Studienkolleg, which is a foundation course in German. 

Is German Language Compulsory to Study in Germany?

No, German is not compulsory for all programs in Germany. Many universities offer English-taught courses, especially at the master’s level. However, learning German helps with daily life, part-time jobs, and future career opportunities.

Which Is Harder, A1 or A2 German?

A2 is harder than A1 because it includes more vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills. A1 covers basic phrases, while A2 allows you to handle more everyday conversations confidently.

Can I Get a Job in Germany with A2 German?

Yes, you can find some entry-level or part-time jobs with A2 German, but many employers prefer B1 or B2 proficiency. Higher German language skills usually lead to better job opportunities and career growth.

Thus, now you have a fair idea of what level of German is required to study in Germany. It is more about communicating effectively while studying in Germany. Certification is a proof, conclusion, 

or formality which you have to fulfil to enrol at a German university. You must consult with a study abroad expert in Germany to get the right information. Fulfilling all the eligibility requirements and managing deadlines is crucial to your German language skills enhancement. For German-taught courses, it is the only way to get admission to prestigious universities. Connect with Admissify to know more about the same. 

FAQs