TestDaF exam and preparation course
TestDaF – Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache [Test of German as a Foreign Language] – is an advanced level language test (B2/C1). If you want to study in Germany, you must prove that you have sufficient language skills to be admitted for a course of study. This proof can be provided by the TestDaF examination.
The Sprachforum Heinrich Heine is a licensed institute for the TestDaF. Several TestDaF exams take place every year. Before you take the TestDaF exam, we recommend that you take a preparatory course to practice and get to know the test format.
TestDaF – Preparation courses
Our TestDaF preparation courses specifically prepare students in small groups for the TestDaF exam.
In the preparation course, you will learn how to write texts, interpret graphics (oral and written), react appropriately in different situations and handle complex texts drawn from the worlds of science and society.
The four parts of the examination
- Reading comprehension
- Listening comprehension
- Written expression
- Oral expression
are trained intensively so that you will know exactly what to expect on the TestDaF examination. A model test is administered for each part of the examination. You will practice authentic examination situations and receive individual supervision.
Preparation courses:
Scope:
12 lesson hours per week, 36 lesson hours per course.
Course price:
€ 270
- Including placement test / additional lesson materials
- Excluding course book
Payment:
50% deposit on registration, balance due on first day of course.
Payment methods:
- Cash paid in our office
- Credit card (Mastercard or Visa card)
- Electronic cash (EC card / Girocard / Maestro card)
- Bank transfer
Lesson times:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
4 lesson hours each, 36 lesson hours in total
Group size:
5 – 12 students per course
Our TestDaF preparation courses prepare students in small groups for the TestDaF exam.
Completion of C1.1 is therefore a minimum requirement for participation in the course.
TestDaF – Examination
The TestDaF is an advanced level language test that covers levels B2 to C1 on the scale of the European Framework of Reference for Languages. Examinees should have already completed approx. 800 to 1000 lesson units of German before registering for the exam. Proof of German language proficiency is not required for registration for the examination. The test can be repeated as often as desired.
The Sprachforum Heinrich Heine is a licensed institute for the TestDaF. Several TestDaF exams take place every year. Before you take the TestDaF exam, we recommend that you take a preparatory course to practice and get to know the test format.
Exam dates:
| Prüfungstermin | Nummer | Anmeldefrist | Ergebnis |
|---|
Enrolment:
If you want to register for the TestDaF examination, you must apply to us (as your test center) for a TAN number.
Examination fee:
€ 270
- The examination fee must be paid at the Testzentrum [Test Center] of the Sprachforum Heinrich Heine. You will then receive a TAN number with which you can register for the exam.
Payment methods:
- Cash paid in our office
- Credit card (Mastercard or Visa card)
- Electronic cash (EC card / Girocard / Maestro card)
The TestDaF certificate is valid indefinitely and is recognized by all German universities and colleges of higher education.
You may study at any German university if you have achieved at least TDN4 in all four parts of the examination.
Examination performance is broken down into three levels:
- TestDaF Level 5 (TDN 5)
- TestDaF Level 4 (TDN 4)
- TestDaF Level 3 (TDN 3)
TDN 5 is the highest level. The TestDaF does not differentiate performance scoring below TDN 3, but only states that the examinee has not yet reached the threshold entry level of the TestDaF.
A TestDaF receiving a score of at least TDN 4 in all parts of the examination is deemed as proof of linguistic ability sufficient for unrestricted admission to all study and degree programs.
A score of TDN 5 demonstrates a particularly high level of German language proficiency either in the relevant skill or the entire examination (i.e. a score of TDN 5 in all parts of the examination). TDN 5 is above the level required for admission or enrolment.
You will receive a certificate detailing your exam results about two months after taking the TestDaF.
Four skills are tested:
- Reading comprehension
- Listening comprehension
- Written expression
- Oral expression
The four skills are tested separately to establish a differentiated linguistic performance profile. The examination score results in the individual skills are therefore shown separately in the certificate.
The examination questions are centrally developed, tested and corrected at the TestDaF Institute. They are subject to constant test methodological validation and review.