Germany, home to beautiful castles, picturesque landscapes, and a thriving academic scene, has long been a popular destination for international students. If you’re still deciding what and where to study, you can also browse Germany courses to get a better sense of the academic opportunities available before preparing for the application process.
Because German is the main language of instruction for many degree programs in Germany, international students often need to demonstrate proficiency in the language, especially if they plan to pursue a degree program taught in German. But don’t worry: as challenging as it may seem, several language tests can help you meet university language requirements.
So, if you’re an international student looking to study in Germany or simply want to improve your German language skills, stay tuned! By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the language requirements in Germany and the options available to help you achieve your language goals.
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in Germany
In Germany, many undergraduate degree programs are taught in German, although English-taught options are available. At the graduate level, students can often choose from programs taught in English, German, or a combination of both, depending on the university and field of study. Whichever route you choose, here is the list of tests you need to know:
German Language Tests for International Students
Aspiring international students may be required to prove that they have a solid command of German. There are several language tests that can demonstrate your German proficiency, but it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at three widely recognized German language tests: TestDaF, DSH, and telc Deutsch.
1. TestDaF – Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache
The TestDaF is a standardized German language proficiency exam for non-native speakers who want to study at German universities. This exam measures German language proficiency in reading, listening, writing, and speaking, with scores ranging from TDN 3 to TDN 5. The TestDaF levels correspond to CEFR levels B2 to C1, and many German-taught degree programs require TDN 4 in all four sections, although exact requirements vary by university and program.
TestDaF is offered on multiple dates throughout the year and can be taken in digital or paper-based format, depending on the test date and location. In Germany, the current fee is €210 for the digital TestDaF and €215 for the paper-based TestDaF. Applicants should schedule the exam early because paper-based results usually take about six weeks, while digital TestDaF results usually take about three weeks.
The TestDaF certificate is recognized by all universities in Germany and does not expire, making it a valuable certification for international students who wish to pursue higher education opportunities in the country, including at institutions such as the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and the Free University of Berlin.
2. DSH – German Language University Entrance Examination
DSH is another language proficiency exam for non-native German speakers aiming to study at German universities. Unlike TestDaF, DSH is administered by universities or preparatory colleges and measures the German language skills needed for university studies. The exam includes written and oral components and is graded at three levels: DSH-1, DSH-2, and DSH-3.
The minimum DSH score required for admission is typically DSH-2, though some universities or programs may accept DSH-1 or require DSH-3. Exam fees are set by the university or test provider, so the cost can vary. Some German universities list DSH exam fees of around €150 to €160, while preparation courses are usually priced separately.
While TestDaF can be taken at licensed test centers worldwide, DSH may be a better option if you already know the specific university you want to attend, such as the University of Konstanz, and the university accepts DSH as proof of German language proficiency.
3. telc Deutsch Exam
Last on our list is telc Deutsch. For university admission, the most relevant version is usually telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, which tests university-related German language skills at an advanced level. telc fees vary by level and test center, so applicants should check the price directly with the examination center before registering.
For German-taught degree programs, many universities require proof of German at C1 level or an equivalent qualification. For example, the University of Bremen accepts telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule for admission, and the University of Bayreuth lists telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule as one accepted certificate for C1 or DSH-2-level German language proof. Always check the exact requirements on the official page of your chosen program.
Achieving the required result on the telc Deutsch exam can strengthen your chances of being admitted to a German university, so it’s worth investing time and effort into preparing for the test if your target program accepts it.
English Language Tests for International Students
Now, let’s discuss the English proficiency tests that are commonly accepted by German universities for English-taught programs. These tests are widely used in Germany and in many other countries, but score requirements vary by university, degree level, and program.
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
IELTS is a globally recognized test that assesses your reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities and assigns a band score from 0 to 9. Many English-taught programs in Germany list IELTS as one accepted proof of English proficiency, but a band score of 6.5 is not a universal requirement. Some programs may accept lower scores, while others require 7.0 or higher.
The test is administered worldwide, and fees vary depending on the location. IELTS can be an excellent option for students who want to prove their English proficiency for international opportunities, including English-taught programs at German universities such as the Free University of Berlin and LMU Munich, provided the selected program accepts it.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
Next up is TOEFL, a widely recognized English language test accepted by many universities around the world. Like IELTS, TOEFL evaluates reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills. Since January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT score reports use a new 1 to 6 scale, and ETS provides comparable 0 to 120 scores during a two-year transition period after January 2026. Many German programs that still list the older TOEFL scale set minimum scores around 80 or higher, but requirements vary by program.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
Lastly, Duolingo is an online English language proficiency test accepted by many institutions worldwide. It assesses English proficiency across reading, listening, speaking, and writing, and scores range from 10 to 160. However, acceptance in Germany is program-specific. Some German programs accept the Duolingo English Test, while others do not, so applicants should confirm directly with the university before relying on it.
For example, Trier University’s central English-taught master’s language page currently lists IELTS, TOEFL, UNIcert, and Cambridge options, and one Trier University program FAQ states that the Duolingo Language Exam is not accepted. This means applicants should not assume that Duolingo is accepted at a German university unless the official program page clearly says so.
While it may seem like just another hurdle to jump, language proficiency is a key factor in a successful admission to a German university. By following this guide and choosing the right language test for your program, you can work toward your academic and personal milestones in Germany.
We hope this article was informative and helpful. Planning to study in Germany? Check out our Study in Germany Page for more valuable tips and insightful articles! You can also search our Available Programs in Germany for courses that are currently accepting international students!
