TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language)

International applicants for study in Germany must prove adequate German language skills. There is a choice between two tests: TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language) and DSH (Test of German for University Admission).

TestDaF is standardized, i.e. it always appears in the same format. It contains four parts:

 

Reading comprehension

Listening comprehension

Written expression

Oral expression

 

The standard of the test is always identical. Before initiating a new test the Institute responsible for the development of the test (TestDaF Institute) is testing on a number of students which assignments are suitable. Proofreading of the test is also very meticulous.

 

We recommend you to prepare for the test, because the design of the test and its content are quite different from familiar tests in language schools. It is also advisable to participate in a TestDaF preparatory course.

 

You may repeat the test at will. Please consider thoroughly before registration if your German skills are adequate. You should have studied at least 700 to 800 hours of German. Make use of the placement test.

Reading comprehension

In the test part reading comprehension you have to work on three assignments. Each assignment consists of reading a text with items (questions or statements). The assignments vary in their difficulty. The first assignment is the easiest one, the third is the most difficult one. This test part takes 60 minutes.


Listening comprehension

In the test part listening comprehension you have to work on three assignments. Each assignment consists of listening to a text with items (questions and statements). The assignments vary in their difficulty. The first assignment is the easiest one, the third is the most difficult one. This test part takes 60 minutes.


Written expression

In the test part written expression you have to write a text on a given topic. On the basis of relevant questions and statistical data you should develop a coherent text. Such kinds of texts are typical for the study at a university.

Contrary to the other test parts there is only one assignment in written expression. You will have 60 minutes time.


Oral expression

In the test part oral expression you have to work on seven assignments. Varying situations in German university life will be presented to which you should react; e.g. you participate in a discussion between students or describe a diagram. All spoken assignments come from a tape or compact disc. You must speak your answers also on a tape or compact disc. This test part takes ca. 30 minutes.


Test Dates in 2011

February 10, 2011 (registration deadline: January 13, 2011)

April 12, 2011 (registration deadline: March 15, 2011)

June 8, 2011 (registration deadline: May 11, 2011)

July 19, 2011 (registration deadline: June 21, 2011)

September 10, 2011 (registration deadline: August 9, 2011)

November 22, 2011 (registration deadline: October 25, 2011)


How do I register?

Since the beginning of 2010 TestDaF online registration is required, i.e. each applicant must register independently via Internet and no longer at the test centre (www.testdaf.de).


How do I cancel my registration?

A cancellation of registration within the deadline must be done via Internet on the homepage of TestDaF Institute where you will find all necessary information. Cancellation by fax is not possible, not even through the test centre.


Amount of test fee and modes of payment

Since the beginning of 2010 the test fee amounts to 175,00 €.

You can choose between two modes of payment:

You may pay by credit card, or inside Germany by debit authorisation from a bank account,

or

You pay in cash at the test centre and will receive a TAN no. (transaction no.) for online registration.

Irrespective of the mode of payment the participant must register for the test via Internet.

 

If you have more questions regarding online payment, please address directly to the TestDaF Institute (anmeldung@testdaf.de).


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Information on recognized language certificates for admission to study

www.sprachnachweis.de is a new website that informs international students on language skills and tests required for admission to study in Germany. www.sprachnachweis.de easily delivers comprehensive information on recognized German language certificates required for admission to study for international students as well as on requirements for university courses taught in a foreign language. Target groups are international applicants from abroad and German applicants in international study courses.

 

This new information and service website is for

International applicants

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International Offices

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Student Advisors

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printed: 05/25/12  04:26