✍️Exams

There are many different German language tests available, and which one is best for you will depend on your proficiency level, your long-term goals, and the institution you intend to attend. The DSH, TestDaF, and Goethe Institute exams, which cover all CEFR levels from A1 to C2, are the most well-known tests in Germany. Additional details on a number of certificates, along with arguments to choose one over the other, are provided below.

Goethe Institut Examinations (Goethe-Zertifikat A1,A2,B1,B2,C1, C2)

The exam has 4 modules (reading, writing, listening and speaking) which are graded from 0 to 100. to A minimum score of 60/100 is required to pass each of them. Validity:

• Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Scale score:

• 90-100: Very good

• 80-89: Good

• 70-79: Satisfactory

• 60-69: Adequate

• 0-59: Failed

Ideal to prepare for studying at a German-speaking university at graduate or postgraduate level and to demonstrate a very advanced knowledge of German for employment prospects.

Test DaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) From B2 to C1

Validity:

• Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

The results are assigned to one of three levels, being 5 the highest:

• TestDaF level 5 (TDN 5)

• TestDaF level 4 (TDN 4)

• TestDaF level 3 (TDN 3)

This exam is primarily for entry in German-speaking universities, and every university in Germany recognises it. It’s also useful as a qualification for academic professions.

DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) From B2 to C1

Validity:

• Lifelong. This certificate does not have an expiry date.

Scale score from 1 to 3,3 being the best grade. Apart from the overall grade, each part will also be given an individual grade.

Correspondence of DSH levels with the % of correct answers and CEFR levels:

• DSH 1 (≥57%): Level B2.2

• DSH 2 (≥67%): Level C1.1

• DSH 3 (≥82%): Level C1.2

Test for foreign students wishing to apply to a German-speaking university. It can also be useful for those who need a German certificate for a job qualification.

Which German Exam Should I Take?

Your level is one of the key considerations you need to make. Here is a table that compares the various exams in accordance with the CEFR's 6 levels of proficiency, along with a brief description of each level. You'll see that the TestDaF and the DSH tests are designed to assess upper-intermediate and advanced users (B2-C1 level), as we've previously explained. The Goethe-Institute, on the other hand, provides 6 exams, one for each CEFR level.

You must have at least a Goethe B1 level to be recognized if you intend to study, speak, and understand the language.

😔Gothe Exams

😩Testdaf

😔Gothe Exams