TestDaF
TestDaF is the academic German exam for university admission in Germany, targeting B2–C1 with TDN (TestDaF-Niveaustufe) scoring.
Overview
- Levels: B2–C1
- Purpose: Study in Germany
- Recognition: German universities
- Official site: www.testdaf.de
Who is it for?
- International students applying to German universities
- Applicants who need B2–C1 academic German proof
- Learners who prefer a standardised nationwide university exam
TestDaF format and scoring
| Part | Details |
|---|---|
| Leseverstehen (Reading) | 60 minutes · 3 parts · multiple choice and matching |
| Hörverstehen (Listening) | 40 minutes · 3 parts · multiple choice and short answers |
| Schriftlicher Ausdruck (Writing) | 60 minutes · 1 task — graph description and argument essay |
| Mündlicher Ausdruck (Speaking) | 35 minutes · computer-based · 7 tasks |
| Total duration | Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes |
| Scoring system | TDN 3, TDN 4, or TDN 5 per section — no overall pass/fail |
| Certificate validity | Does not expire |
| Typical cost | €175–€220 depending on test centre and country |
Scoring note: TestDaF uses TDN levels (TestDaF-Niveaustufe) rather than a simple pass/fail. TDN 3 corresponds to B2, TDN 4 to upper B2/C1, and TDN 5 to C1. Most German universities require TDN 4 in all four sections — check your specific programme requirements before registering.
Who needs which TDN score?
- TDN 3 in all sections: Minimum accepted by some universities and programmes — always verify before registering
- TDN 4 in all sections: Required by most German universities for standard admission
- TDN 5 in all sections: Required for some highly competitive programmes and scholarships
TestDaF vs DSH — which should you choose?
| Factor | TestDaF | DSH |
|---|---|---|
| Where taken | Worldwide at authorised centres | In Germany at the university itself |
| When available | Multiple fixed dates per year | Set by each university individually |
| Who can take it | Anyone, anywhere | Usually admitted students only |
| Format | Standardised nationwide | Varies slightly by university |
| Cost | €175–€220 | Varies — often lower or free at the university |
| Best for | Applicants applying from abroad | Students already in Germany |
If you are applying to a German university from outside Germany, TestDaF is almost always the right choice. DSH is typically only relevant once you have already arrived.
6-week study plan
TestDaF targets B2–C1 academic German. Assume you are already at solid B1 before starting this plan.
Week 1–2 — Academic reading and listening
- Practise reading dense academic texts — identify main arguments, supporting details, and author positions.
- Work through Hörverstehen tasks with academic lectures and discussions.
- Build academic vocabulary: Wissenschaft, Forschung, Entwicklung, Gesellschaft, Analyse. Practise with our B2 vocabulary.
Week 3–4 — Writing and argumentation
- Master the Schriftlicher Ausdruck task structure — describe a graph or chart, then develop a structured argument for or against a position.
- Practise writing with an introduction, two to three arguments with examples, and a conclusion.
- Review B2 and C1 grammar: Konjunktiv II, Passiv, Partizipialkonstruktionen, complex subordinate clauses. Start with our B2 grammar hub.
Week 5 — Speaking preparation
- Work through all seven Mündlicher Ausdruck task types — describing images, giving opinions, making recommendations, hypothesising.
- Practise speaking in complete academic sentences rather than informal responses.
- A tutor can give real-time feedback on register and accuracy.
Week 6 — Full mock under timed conditions
- Complete one full TestDaF mock under strict timing.
- Identify which TDN levels you are achieving per section.
- Focus final revision on any section below TDN 4.
- Confirm your test centre registration, address, and exam date.
Practice with a teacher
How to prepare
Use our grammar, vocabulary, and exercises by CEFR level, then take official sample papers from the exam provider.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about the TestDaF exam.
What TDN score do I need for a German university?
Most German universities require TDN 4 in all four sections. Some competitive programmes require TDN 5 in specific sections. Always check your target university's language requirements page before registering — requirements vary by institution and subject area.
How many times can I take the TestDaF?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take TestDaF. You can retake it as many times as needed. Each attempt is independent and you can submit your best result to universities.
How long is a TestDaF certificate valid?
TestDaF certificates do not formally expire. However, some universities may request a recent certificate — typically within the last two years. Always confirm the requirement with your target university.
When is TestDaF available?
TestDaF is offered approximately five to six times per year at fixed worldwide dates. Registration typically opens six to eight weeks before each exam date. Check www.testdaf.de for the current schedule and available test centres.
Is TestDaF harder than Goethe B2?
TestDaF is specifically designed for academic contexts, making it more demanding in terms of register and text complexity than a general Goethe-Zertifikat B2. The writing and speaking tasks require formal academic argumentation. If your German is strong at B2 but you have not practised academic writing, allow extra preparation time for the Schriftlicher Ausdruck section.