Austria is situated in the center of Europe. It is a popular country that is much favored among the international community as a study-abroad destination due to its high-quality education. Additionally, it offers a vibrant cultural scene, a rich history, and stunning landscapes, making it an exciting location to study and live in.
Austria’s official and most widely spoken language is German, which gives international students an excellent opportunity to equip themselves with a new language. However, plenty of Austrian universities also offer English-taught courses, especially in graduate-level programs. For international students interested in pursuing higher studies in this country, this article will give you valuable information on the German and English language tests for international students that are accepted by Austrian universities.
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in Austria
Language requirements for international students in Austria usually include proficiency in Austria’s official language, German, and a certain level of proficiency in English in some cases.
German Language Tests for International Students
Here are two popular German proficiency tests for international students in Austria.
1. TestDaF – Test of German as a Foreign Language
The TestDaf is a language proficiency test that caters to non-native German speakers. This test assesses an individual’s ability to comprehend and utilize the German language in both everyday and academic contexts. The TestDaf, like any other proficiency test, evaluates the four language skills in German. The score for each section ranges from 3 to 5, with 3 being the lowest.
Typically, the minimum accepted TestDaf score by most Austrian universities for admission is TDN 4 in all sections. For instance, the University of Vienna requires TDN 4 across all sections for admission. However, other universities like the University of Innsbruck require only a TDN 3 across all sections for admission.
2. ÖSD – Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch
Another proficiency test that assesses German as a foreign language is the ÖSD. It evaluates a non-native German speaker’s capacity to understand and utilize the language in a variety of contexts. Skills tested include German reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
The minimum accepted ÖSD score is typically ÖSD B2 for undergraduate-level studies and ÖSD C1 for graduate-level studies. Many Austrian universities accept ÖSD scores to prove German proficiency. Popular universities that accept this test include the University of Innsbruck, which accepts an ÖSD B2 score for admission, and the University of Graz, which requires an ÖSD C1 score for admission.
English Language Tests for International Students
Here are three English proficiency tests for international students that are accepted in Austrian universities.
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
IELTS is a globally accepted language test for international students. This test determines an individual’s coherence, fluency, grammatical range, accuracy, pronunciation, and lexical resources in the English language. The IELTS is widely accepted by universities in Austria.
The minimum IELTS score accepted is typically decided by the university and can vary depending on the program. However, the most common IELTS benchmark is usually a band score of 6.0 or 6.5. Some popular universities that accept IELTS scores include the University of Vienna, which accepts a minimum IELTS score of 6, and the University of Graz, which requires a minimum IELTS score of 7.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
TOEFL is another widely accepted standardized language test for international students. It is used to provide proof of English proficiency, thereby assuring Austrian universities of the applicant’s ability to communicate with peers and educators. This test evaluates all language skills including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
The minimum required score for TOEFL varies depending on your university and program of choice. However, the minimum required score for TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) usually ranges from 80-100. Popular universities that accept TOEFL scores include Salzburg University, which requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 87, and Vienna University of Economics and Business, which requires a minimum score of 85 for Bachelor’s programs and a score of 100 for Master’s programs.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) measures an individual’s writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills. It is an online English proficiency test for international students that has become increasingly popular in recent times as it serves as a more convenient alternative to traditional proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
This test can be taken online and assesses an individual’s ability to engage in effective communication in English. The minimum required DET score varies, with universities typically requiring a DET score of 90-100. Austrian universities that accept DET scores include Webster Vienna Private University, which requires a DET score of 110, and Prague City University.
International students applying to an Austrian university will be required to provide proof of language proficiency in German and, sometimes, English. Specific language tests needed by a foreign learner in Austria will depend on their desired university and program. Being aware of your entry requirements is therefore essential before taking any test.
We hope this article has enlightened you on the language tests taken by international students in Austria. Don’t forget to check out this helpful guide to studying in Austria!
