Want to study in Germany? A 2020 study by the DAAD found that almost 75% of international undergraduate students had classes that were completely or partially in German. So if you’re an aspiring international student, it’s definitely in your best interest to learn the language.
Besides, most German universities require you to anyway!
You’ll be required to take the TestDaF, a test assessing your German reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills from levels B2 to C1 on the CEFR scale. You’ll then be given a score, ranging from TDN 3 to TDN 5, and most universities need at least a TDN 4.
As someone who’s taken the TestDaF, I’ll tell you all you need to know about it!
Overview of TestDaF
The TestDaF stands for "Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache" or "Test of German as a Foreign Language.” Passing this language proficiency test helps non-native German speakers to study or work in German-speaking countries, like Germany, Austria, or Switzerland.
As said above, taking the test will give you a score from TDN 3 to TDN 5, which roughly corresponds to CEFR levels B2 to C1. This is why German language schools mention things like “TestDaF B2” or “TestDaF C1” in their advertising.
Purpose and Recognition
Obtaining a TestDaF certificate is a requirement for applying to German universities, as it is proof of your German language skills. All public and state-recognized universities in the country automatically recognize a TestDaF certificate.
While there are exceptions, many German companies also require passing the TestDaF. Or, even if they don’t outright require it, it’s most definitely a big, big plus on your resume! This is especially true for client-facing roles or certified professions, such as being a physician in Germany.
Test Structure
The TestDaF is divided into the four main aspects of language: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
All sections are taken in one day and, on average, it should take around 3 hours and 10 minutes.
The questions aren’t just merely about theoretical grammar and vocabulary, however. More than that, they test your ability to use German in real-life academic and professional settings.
Reading Comprehension
For the reading section, you’ll be asked to read three texts. Each text is longer and more complex than the last.
The texts can vary in form (from journalistic pieces to academic papers) and topic (often about university life or current national affairs).
After, you’ll answer questions about the text. Don’t expect just simple multiple-choice questions! They also have questions in short-answer formats, which further test your ability to understand the texts’ nuances and complexities.
You are given 60 minutes to complete this section.
Listening Comprehension
Like the reading section, the listening section will present you with three different audios. Specifically, you’ll listen to a personal conversation, an interview, and a presentation.
Each audio will be played twice, so make sure to remember as much as you can. You’ll be asked 25 questions and they won’t just ask you about the audio’s main ideas, but also its specific details.
You will have 40 minutes to finish this part.
Written Expression
For the writing section, you’ll be asked to compose some sort of essay based on a given table or graph. In your composition, you’re expected to analyze the information, come up with an opinion, and argue for it coherently!
For example, they might show you a graph of the popularity of different study programs among international students in Germany. In your piece, you could compare and contrast the different programs and give your opinion on why some programs are taken more than others.
The text you produce must be well-structured and well-written. Make sure to have a proper introduction, cohesive body paragraphs, and a fitting conclusion.
You’ll get 60 minutes to study the table and write your piece.
Oral Expression
Perhaps the most nerve-wracking section, the oral expression section features seven speaking tasks that simulate realistic scenarios.
You’ll be asked to express yourself in different ways, such as:
- Expressing an opinion
- Describing an illustration or scene
- Coming up with a solution to a problem
According to former test-takers, you won’t be directly talking to anybody. At least you’ll only be speaking into a microphone. Quite a relief, no?
You’ll have 35 minutes for the speaking section and your voice will be evaluated later on.
TestDaF Scoring System
Done with the test? Here’s how to understand your TestDaF results in case you’re confused.
The TestDaF scoring system is called TestDaF-Niveaustufe(TDN).
In each of the four test sections, you’ll be given a score that ranges from TDN 3 to TDN 5, which roughly equates to a C1 CEFR level.
As mentioned, you’ll need a TDN 4 in all four sections to apply to most German universities.
TDN Levels
More specifically, each TDN score has a rough CEFR level equivalent and generally implies a certain level of academic language ability.
- TDN 3 — CEFR B2.1 — Basic academic language skills
- TDN 4 — CEFR B2.2 — Good academic language skills
- TDN 5 — CEFR C1 — Excellent academic language skills
Remember that you are scored separately for each test section, so it’s possible to be given different scores for different sections.
This allows you to understand your strengths and weaknesses and gauge how to improve moving forward—or how to better prepare for the test if you haven’t taken it yet!
Score Calculation
Trained raters will then use standardized criteria to convert your raw answers into the TDN scale for each section. Each section is graded completely independently, so there is no such thing as an average or overall TDN or TestDaF score.
Passing Criteria
The TestDaF doesn’t give you a pass or fail assessment, only the TDN scores. The TDN scores are then used by universities for admission.
As said, most universities require a TDN 4 in all four test sections. After all, according to the aforementioned DAAD survey, up to ¾ of international bachelor’s degree students have classes that are wholly or partially in German!
However, some universities may have a few programs that will accept a TDN 3 if you have a TDN 5 in others. For example, a writing-intensive degree program may admit someone with a TDN 5 in writing, even if they have a TDN 3 in another area.
On the other hand, highly competitive courses or quota courses may require up to a TDN 5 in some, if not all areas. Because of this, make sure to check the specific requirements of the program you want to apply to.
Score Validity
However, remember that your TestDaF scores are only valid for two years after your test date.
Most German universities require that your TestDaF scores are not older than two years by the time you apply, although some may accept slightly older ones.
So doing well on the TestDaF is no reason to slack off! Keep your German skills sharp, okay?
If it’s about to be two years since you took it, I advise retaking it.
Preparation Strategies for TestDaF
Now that you know what to expect, here are my tips for preparing for the test.
First of all, give yourself enough time. Learning German isn’t easy, so no matter how hard you study, you likely won’t pass if you don’t give yourself enough time with the language.
I suggest studying for at least 3-6 months before taking the TestDaF exam. But take more time if you need it!
It’s also important to have a balanced approach to learning German. Give equal attention to the four aspects: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
Remember that each section will be graded independently! If you find yourself struggling with a certain area, then focus more on that (while keeping the others sharp).
Lastly, take a TestDaF practice test. This will help you familiarize yourself with the test’s structure and question formats.
Time Management Techniques
Time management is key when taking a long exam like the TestDaF. As mentioned, try practicing with mock tests to get a feel of the exam’s length and pace.
When reading and listening, try to identify key pieces of information to focus on. Don’t clog your mind by overthinking minor details.
Then, once you’re answering, don’t spend too much time on a difficult question. A good practice is to set a specific time allocation for each question.
If your mind is still drawing blanks after that time slot, move on to the next. You might run out of time to answer the questions that you do know the answer to!
Practice Tests
Fortunately, full-length TestDaF practice tests are readily available online. The TestDaF website itself has one available and German language schools typically offer a mock test as well.
To practice time management, take these tests in exam-like conditions with the same exact time restrictions.
Then, review your answers and identify any weaknesses. If, for example, you scored low in the listening section, focus on that area. It might be best to expose yourself to different types of German speech—watch newscasts, listen to interviews, or watch politicians deliver speeches.
Then, keep taking these TestDaF sample tests over time to see how to further improve!
Language Immersion
However, don’t just limit yourself to these practice tests. Or to textbooks or classroom lessons. That’s one of the most common mistakes foreign language learners make.
Don’t just study German—live it! Immerse yourself in actual, real-life German usage by:
- Watching German shows with German subtitles.
- Listening to German podcasts, radio shows, and songs.
- Read journalistic and academic papers in German.
- Interact with native speakers if you live in Germany (or know one in your area).
- And… my secret tip: try thinking in German too.
Focused Study Materials
It is also advised to study specifically for the TestDaF if university admission is your goal, and not just trying to learn it in a general sense. After all, the TestDaF is mainly used for university admissions, so it will lean towards the academic use of German.
TestDaF-specific books, learning apps, and other online resources are readily available online. Try to look for past TestDaF exams as well to get a feel of the real thing.
Meanwhile, in your personal studying, try to give extra focus on academic vocabulary and formal modes of German.
TestDaF Registration and Administration
To take the test, head over to TestDaF’s official website and create an account. You’ll need to provide personal information and that’s also where you’ll be setting a TestDaF appointment.
According to Alumni portal Deutschland, the TestDaF price is around €210, depending on your country’s exchange rate. There are test centers in every region in Germany, so you can take it wherever you are in the country.
Registration Process
The TestDaF registration process is also simple:
- After creating your account, select a date and a test center from the available options
- Complete the registration form and ensure that you input accurate personal information.
- Pay with the available payment methods.
- Wait for a confirmation email that outlines your examination details.
Test Centers and Dates
The TestDaF is highly accessible internationally. TestDaF centers are also available in over 95 countries according to Erudera.com, with 170 centers all across Germany.
There are several TestDaF exam dates all throughout the year, although they are held more frequently in Germany. However, try to register as early as you can, as slots fill up quickly.
Check the TestDaF’s official website to search for available dates and test centers.
Digital TestDaF
The TestDaF can now also be taken digitally if you prefer it over the paper-based test. However, you still have to go to a physical test center to take it.
The structure and difficulty are similar, although taking it digitally may still prove to be a slightly different experience. So I suggest looking for tips for digital exams.
The upside of a digital exam is that it is processed more quickly so you’ll get your results sooner. The audio quality is also better for the listening section.
TestDaF for University Admission
Many people taking the TestDaF do so to get into a German university.
The TestDaF is acknowledged by all public and state-recognized German universities. In virtually all these universities, a TDN 4 score is a requirement for international students.
This is particularly true for degree programs taught in German, though many English-taught programs may also require it as evidence of at least some level of German fluency.
University Requirements
Most universities require at least a TDN 4 in all four TestDaF sections. For example, Engineering at TU Munich does.
As mentioned, exceptions do exist, however. Some programs will forego a TDN 3 in a section, especially if the applicant scored higher in the other test aspects.
On the flip side, more competitive degree programs may require a TDN 5 across the board, or at least in a few areas. A German literature course may need a TDN 5 in reading and writing, for example.
So check the specific university and program you’re interested in!
TestDaF for Visa Applications
However, the TestDaF is more than a ticket to German universities. They also give you a better chance of getting your German visa approved.
Student visas, for example, also require proof of German language proficiency, and a TestDaF score is the best way to prove this.
The good thing is that visa applications tend to have lower requirements than universities, so a TDN 3 might be good enough to get your visa approved.
Visa offices may also accept you if you have a conditional university admission based on a pending language improvement.
TestDaF for Professional Purposes
A TestDaF certificate is also a massive boost to your employment opportunities in Germany and other German-speaking countries.
It can be used to fulfill pretty much any language proficiency requirement from any employer. Some jobs, such as academic positions, will also require taking the TestDaF specifically.
Job Market Requirements
However, even if the job you’re applying to doesn’t require a TestDaF score, they will likely see it as a significant advantage.
Any application with a high TestDaF score will definitely stand out compared to the ones with lower scores or those who haven’t taken it at all!
After all, even international companies in Germany still use German as their primary business language—even more so for roles that face clients or customers.
Professional Certification
The TestDaF is also often a requirement for certification processes of regulated professions, such as that of doctors and engineers.
German teachers of other foreign languages also need at least a C1 in German to be qualified to teach those other languages.
A Key to Success in Germany
The TestDaF landscape is evolving (as shown by the introduction of a digital test), but it remains the key to succeeding in your life in Germany.
It will not just unlock your study, work, and visa goals…
But, by practicing for it and refining your German reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills in the process, you’ll attain a comfortable level of German fluency to successfully integrate into German society.
Daunting as it may be, anyone who is consistent about practicing and exposing themselves to German is almost guaranteed to do well in the TestDaF.
However, many people may do well answering textbooks or performing exercises but lack the confidence to actually go out there and speak German. Many people also consider the oral section of TestDaF to be particularly difficult.
At Deutsch Gym, we offer a platform where learners of the language can regularly talk to each other and native speakers. By doing this, they boost their confidence and take their German-speaking skills to the next level.
Try out a 5-day free trial with Deutsch Gym today and see why it proves to be an invaluable tool to attain German fluency and TestDaF success!
