Language Requirements

Understanding German language levels and proficiency requirements for studying and working in Germany

German Language Levels (A1–C2)

German language proficiency is structured according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which provides a standardized way to describe language ability. Understanding these levels helps you assess your current proficiency and plan your language learning journey.

Most German universities require B2 or C1 level for German-taught programs, while some programs may accept B1. For professional work, B2 or higher is typically required.

A1

Beginner

Designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of German.

You will learn to:

  • Introduce yourself and share basic personal information
  • Understand and use simple everyday expressions
  • Ask and answer basic questions
  • Communicate in everyday situations, such as shopping or travelling

Outcome

Ability to handle simple conversations in everyday life.

A2

Elementary

Builds on A1 and expands everyday communication skills.

You will learn to:

  • Talk about daily routines, experiences, and plans
  • Understand frequently used phrases and expressions
  • Communicate in simple and direct exchanges
  • Read short texts such as emails and notices

Outcome

Confidence to manage everyday situations independently.

B1

Intermediate

Focuses on practical communication in daily and social life.

You will learn to:

  • Express opinions and explain experiences
  • Understand the main points of clear standard German
  • Communicate effectively in work, travel, and education contexts
  • Write simple, structured texts

Outcome

Ability to communicate independently in most daily situations.

B2

Upper Intermediate

Prepares learners for academic and professional environments.

You will learn to:

  • Understand complex texts and discussions
  • Communicate fluently and clearly with native speakers
  • Write formal emails, reports, and essays
  • Participate confidently in professional and academic conversations

Outcome

Strong language skills for study and work in Germany.

C1

Advanced

For academic and high-level professional use of German.

You will learn to:

  • Understand long and complex texts with implicit meaning
  • Express yourself fluently and precisely
  • Use German effectively in academic, social, and professional contexts
  • Write well-structured, advanced texts

Outcome

High proficiency suitable for university studies and professional careers.

C2

Mastery

Represents near-native proficiency in German.

You will learn to:

  • Understand virtually everything you read or hear
  • Express yourself effortlessly and precisely
  • Use German confidently in all professional, academic, and social settings

Outcome

Near-native command of the German language.

Language Proficiency Tests

To demonstrate your German language proficiency for university admission or professional purposes, you'll need to take recognized language tests. Here are the most commonly accepted tests:

TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language)

The TestDaF is one of the most widely recognized German language tests for university admission. It assesses language skills at levels B2 to C1.

  • Levels: B2 to C1
  • Format: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking sections
  • Validity: Recognized by all German universities
  • Required Score: Typically TDN 4 (TestDaF-Niveaustufe 4) in all sections for university admission

DSH (German Language University Entrance Examination)

The DSH is administered by individual universities and is specifically designed for prospective students. It tests language skills at levels B2 to C2.

  • Levels: B2 to C2
  • Format: Written and oral examinations
  • Validity: Recognized by the university where you take the exam (some universities accept DSH from other institutions)
  • Required Level: DSH-2 (B2/C1) or DSH-3 (C1/C2) depending on the program

Goethe-Zertifikat (Goethe Institute Certificates)

The Goethe Institute offers certificates at various CEFR levels, widely recognized for both academic and professional purposes.

  • Available Levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
  • Format: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking sections
  • Validity: Internationally recognized
  • Required Level: Typically Goethe-Zertifikat B2 or C1 for university admission

ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch)

The ÖSD is an internationally recognised German language examination accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

  • Levels: A1 to C2
  • Format: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking sections
  • Validity: Recognised by German universities, employers, and visa authorities
  • Required Score: Varies by institution and purpose; B2 or C1 is commonly required for university admission and professional recognition.

TELC (The European Language Certificates)

TELC is a standardised European language certification widely accepted for university admission, professional recognition, and residence permits in Germany.

  • Levels: A1 to C2
  • Format: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking sections
  • Validity: Recognised by German universities, employers, and immigration authorities
  • Required Score: B2 or C1 is commonly needed for higher education, professional licensing, and long-term residence applications.

English Language Requirements

For English-taught programs in Germany, you'll need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognized international tests.

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Most universities require a score of 6.0 to 7.0, depending on the program
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Typically requires 80-100 points (iBT), depending on the university and program
  • Cambridge Certificates: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency are widely accepted
  • Other Tests: Some universities may accept PTE Academic or other recognized English proficiency tests

Language Requirements by Program Type

Different programs and universities have varying language requirements. Here's a general guide:

  • German-taught Bachelor's Programs: Typically require B2 or C1 level (TestDaF TDN 4 or DSH-2)
  • German-taught Master's Programs: Usually require C1 level (TestDaF TDN 4-5 or DSH-2/3)
  • English-taught Programs: Require English proficiency (IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent)
  • Preparatory Courses (Studienkolleg): May require B1 or B2 level
  • Professional Work: Typically requires B2 or higher, depending on the field

Important Note: Always check the specific language requirements for your chosen program and university, as requirements can vary significantly.

Language Support

German Language Training

Berlin Global Consultancy offers structured online and offline German language programs designed to prepare students and professionals for academic, professional, and settlement pathways in Germany. Our courses are delivered by experienced, certified instructors and follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

We offer A1-B2 German language courses, along with exam preparation classes for TestDaF, TELC, and ÖSD, ensuring learners are fully prepared for university admission and professional requirements in Germany.

Our Teaching Team

  • Team of C1 and C2 certified German language instructors
  • DaF (Deutsch als Fremdsprache) certified teachers
  • Over 10 years of international German language teaching experience
  • Teachers who have lived, studied, and professionally trained in Germany
  • Strong understanding of real-life language use, cultural context, and academic requirements
  • Experience in preparing students for university, work, and visa-related language needs

Our Learning Approach

  • Practical, communication-focused training
  • Exam-oriented preparation
  • Structured grammar and vocabulary development
  • Speaking confidence-building
  • Individual performance monitoring

Course Formats

  • Online live classes
  • Offline classroom programs (selected locations)
  • Intensive courses
  • Fast-track German Courses

Exam Preparation Support

We provide targeted preparation for:

  • TestDaF
  • TELC
  • ÖSD

Our training ensures you are prepared for both academic admission and immigration language requirements.

Why Choose Our German Courses

  • CEFR-aligned structured programs
  • Experienced certified instructors
  • Flexible learning modes
  • Practical and exam-focused methodology
  • Support aligned with Germany study and work requirements