Exams Required to Study in Germany 2026: IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, TestDaF

International students must clear specific entrance exams to study in Germany, categorized into language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF) and academic aptitude (TestAS, GRE, GMAT). Additionally, students from India, China, and Vietnam require the APS Certificate to validate their academic credentials for a student visa.

International students must clear specific entrance exams to study in Germany, depending on their course level and language of instruction. These requirements generally fall into three categories: language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF), academic aptitude (TestAS, GRE, GMAT), and credential verification (APS Certificate). While English-taught programs are popular, clearing a German language exam remains essential for daily life and specific technical degrees.

Choosing the right entrance exams is the critical first step in your application journey. Whether you are applying for a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s in Germany, your scores act as the primary filter for public universities. For Indian students, integrating the APS certificate process with your exam timeline is now mandatory to secure a German student visa.

If you are a science or business student looking at postgraduate studies, some top schools might ask for GRE or GMAT scores, even though many public universities don't require them. Lastly, if your course is in German, you must clear TestDaF or DSH to show your language skills. Planning these exams 6 to 8 months early is the best way to avoid stress.

Which Exams Do You Need to Study in Germany?

To study in Germany, you need to clear specific exams based on your course language and level. For English programs, you must take IELTS or TOEFL. If your course is in German, TestDaF or DSH is required. Undergraduate students often need the TestAS aptitude test or might use JEE Advanced scores. For postgraduate studies in technical or business fields, some top universities ask for the GRE or GMAT

Which English test is required for Germany?: IELTS vs TOEFL

For international students planning to study in English-taught programs, proving language skills is mandatory. Most German universities accept both IELTS and TOEFL, though minimum score requirements vary by institution.

German Language Exams: TestDaF and DSH

If you choose a program taught in German, you must prove high-level proficiency (usually C1 level). Universities typically accept two main examinations.

1. TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)

The TestDAF is a standardized test that you can take in your home country at a Goethe-Institut. It assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Most universities require a "Level 4" in all four sections for admission.

2. DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

Unlike TestDaF, the DSH exam is conducted by the specific German university where you have been offered admission. It is only available in Germany. A DSH-2 score is generally considered the standard for entry into most degree programs.

Entrance Exams for Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Degrees

German universities require a "University Entrance Qualification" (HZB). If your high school diploma is not considered equivalent to the German Abitur, you may need these exams.

• TestAS (Test for Academic Studies): A standardized aptitude test for international students. It measures cognitive abilities rather than specific knowledge. A score above 100 is good, but top universities look for 110+.
• JEE Advanced: Many technical universities in Germany now recognize JEE Advanced scores. Indian students who have cleared this exam can often apply for direct admission to technical Bachelor's programs, skipping the foundation year (Studienkolleg).
• Feststellungsprüfung (FSP): This is the final assessment taken after completing a year at a Studienkolleg. It tests your knowledge in subjects relevant to your chosen degree (e.g., T-course for Engineering).

Entrance Exams for Postgraduate (Master’s) Degrees

While many public universities in Germany focus heavily on your Bachelor's GPA, some competitive programs require international aptitude tests.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The GRE is increasingly required for Master’s programs in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Highly ranked universities, such as those in the TU9 group, often use GRE scores to differentiate between high-performing applicants.

GMAT (Graduate Management Aptitude Test)

If you are applying for an MBA in Germany or a Master’s in Finance or Management, a GMAT score is often mandatory. Aim for a score above 600 for reputable business schools.

The Mandatory APS Certificate for Indian Students

For students from India, the APS Certificate is now a critical part of the application process. It is not an exam, but a verification of your academic records by the Academic Evaluation Centre of the German Embassy.

You must obtain your APS certificate before applying for your student visa. Because processing can take 4 to 8 weeks, it is recommended to start this process as soon as you have your final degree transcripts.

It is important to note that the Universities in Germany are essentially independent entities and it would be wise to first check with the respective university about the tests required before you start preparing for either or all of the above. So, research properly and then start preparing!