5 Recognized German Language Certification

German Language Certification Guide

There are several reasons why people from non-German-speaking countries may be required to take a German language proficiency test. In most cases, foreign nationals need to pass a German language exam to move to Germany to join their spouse, study, or work and get a German language certification.

Sometimes, they must pass an exam before arriving in Germany. Different German institutions give numerous language tests to certify an individual’s German skill level, which people can take in Germany or their home country. Most follow the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for languages, but they are used for different purposes despite their everyday basis. You may wonder which of them apply to your situation. You should take a German language certificate course to pass these tests.

Generally, standard German language proficiency examinations include those developed by highly respected educational institutions in the German-speaking world, such as the Goethe Institute, TELC GmbH, and the tested Institute in Germany or Verein ÖSD in Austria. However, some institutions in Germany and outside Germany issue their German language certificates. Let us look at how to get German language certification online.

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Types of certifications for the German language

There are several tests and certifications available to verify your proficiency in German language skills. The type you choose depends on why you seek a German language certification. German authorities and institutions commonly accept the following examinations and certificates.

1. Goethe-Institut (German Language Certification)

Goethe-Institut is an organization, part-funded by the German government, that promotes German language learning and cultural exchange abroad. Goethe–Institut offers German language courses and exams worldwide network of 159 institutes in 98 countries, the institute has developed a series of exams that certificate German language ability at six levels, following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. You can take this German language course online with a certificate.

Learners can take examinations at any Goethe-Institut or with one of the institute’s partners. Furthermore, the Goethe-Institut certificate (Zertifikat) is recognized worldwide as a German language certification. It can be used in Germany for visas, residence permits, citizenship applications, and university admission requirements.

2. TELC Deutsch Certification

TELC (The European Language Certificates) offers language certification in 11 European languages, including German. It has over 2,000 test centers in 20 other countries. TELC standard exams correspond to the CEFR levels. Still, they also offer specialized exams focusing on topics such as language in the workplace, language for nurses and carers, medical language, and university admission.

Germany accepts their internationally recognized certifications when applying for visas, residence permits, and citizenship. To get this certification, you should apply for a German certificate course.

3. TestDaF Certification (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)

TestDaf (formerly Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) is a German language certification for non-native speakers. It specifically targets those aspiring to study or work at German universities. Moreover, TestDaf is available in 90 countries worldwide, including 170 test centers in Germany.

Participants take the same exam and are graded levels 3 – 5, broadly corresponding to the CEFR levels B2 – C1. Achieving level 4 is sufficient to meet the entrance requirements of all universities in Germany. Additionally, some universities can even accept applicants with a lower score. This will help you get a German language certificate.

4. DSH Certification (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

Alongside TestDaF, DSH is the other language certification accepted by universities. The main difference is that, rather than being available abroad, the DSH examination can only be taken at a German university (usually the one you are applying to).

Students are tested on reading, writing, and listening comprehension and undertake an oral examination. The DSH grades 1 – 3 are equivalent to CEFR levels B2 – C2. This is a great German language course with a certificate.

5. Deutschtest für Zuwanderer Certification (DTZ)

The Deutschtest für Zuwanderer (German Language Test for Immigrants—DTZ) is a certification designed specifically for immigrants in Germany. It is usually taken after an integration German course. Passing this test is equivalent to achieving a CEFR level A2 or B1.

New arrivals in Germany often must complete the integration course and DTZ to receive a residence permit. However, completing an integration course demonstrates German language ability for expedited German citizenship applications.

German Language Proficiency Levels

The CEFR is an international standard for describing language ability. It assesses language learners on their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills using a six-point scale from a1 to c2:

A1 & A2 (Basic)

This is the basic level required for most people seeking a visa or residence permit in Germany, especially those moving to Germany for family purposes. It usually takes between 40 and 60 hours of guided study (classes and homework) to achieve.

Related Read : A1 Level & A2 Level German

B1 & B2 (Intermediate)

To qualify for German citizenship, you must achieve a minimum of level B1. Reaching level B2 requires 60 to 80 hours of study.

C1 & C2 (Advanced/Proficient)

Level C is the most advanced level, split between C1 (advanced) and C2 (near native). In this level you will get Language proficiency in German.

How long does it take to learn German?

The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the American State Department rates German as a category two language. This means it is like English, and they estimate that German takes approximately 30 weeks, or 750 classroom hours, to learn. Remember that this study was conducted on a group of language students who spent 25 hours per week in class and three hours daily on individual practice, so that’s a lot of studying.

You will reach levels faster when you study regularly than just a few hours a month. The number of hours you study generally increases your fluency in German.

Conclusion (German Language Certification)

Wrapping up, numerous options are available for taking German exams, each offering a pathway to your goals in Germany. Before choosing a test, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the examination requirements to ensure you select the one that best aligns with your needs.

The variety of German language certificates available is not a hurdle but an opportunity to realize your aspirations. To gauge your proficiency, you can even take a German language test online, allowing you to independently evaluate your skills and prepare effectively for your future in Germany.