TestDaf - All you need to know

What is TestDaf?
TestDaf stands for Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache or German as a foreign language test. TestDaf and DSH are German equivalents of IELTS and TOEFL. TestDaf is recognised at all German universities, universities of applied science and Studienkollegs. The test is centrally standardized and controlled by the TestDaf Institute based in Hagen, Germany. It is offered at licensed test centres in Germany and in about 80 other countries. In many countries the test is conducted by the Goethe Institute. All examinees receive the same type of tasks and are graded following standardized guidelines.

The test results are graded into three levels

• TestDaf-Niveaustufe 5 (TDN 5 or TestDaf Level 5)
• TestDaf-Niveaustufe 4 (TDN 4 or TestDaf Level 4)
• TestDaf-Niveaustufe 3 (TDN 3 or TestDaf Level 3)

You can take the test after completing Intermediate Level B2 or C1 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) at your local German language training centre (e.g. Goethe Institute).

Which TestDaf level is appropriate for me?

A level of TDN 4 in all subtests qualifies you to apply at any higher education institute in Germany provided you fulfil the legal and academic requirements as well. A score of TDN 5 means you have very strong hold on German and is above the required level.

If you have TDN 3 in some or all of the subtests, then it depends upon the individual policies of the university you are applying to decide on your admission. If you have scored such level from your home country it is a good idea to contact your course coordinator or the international office over the issue. Sometimes they allow you an admission on condition that you attend further language programs once you are in Germany. Don't panic as these are usually free of charge and scheduled such that there is little interference with course studies.

Who must take the TestDaf Test?

If you plan to study at a higher education institute (e.g. university) in Germany and your chosen degree program (bachelors or masters) is not taught in English, then you must take the TestDaf or DSH test. If you have only started to learn German recently then you have to wait until you have completed the intermediate level at a language school before taking the test. You can take an online placement test on the TestDaf institute website to check if you are already fit to take the test.

How to prepare for the TestDaf Test?

Basically this involves learning German. You have a number of options to do that. For instance you can prepare for it on your own with online support (e.g. http://www.deutsch-uni.com/gast/duo/info/index.do?do=index), ebooks and the like. Or you can learn it with a eTandem partner. But we want to put our bets on the old school method, i.e. learning a language from a language school! Thats what they are all about in the first place. If you have already finished your high school and plan to come to Germany for university level education, you can start learning German right now from your home country. Infact you can take the TestDaf test from your country and apply to universities with the result. This will prove to be more economical on the long run. On the down side, there are some minor disadvantages about learning a new language from a non-native country. Now we know why people complain about our English accent!

How much does it  cost to take the TestDaf Test?

Depending upon the country the cost of taking the test varies between 80, 110 or 150 Euro. The price changes constantly and hence its wise to check it at the institute's website: www.testdaf.de.

Where and when can I take the TestDaf Test?

You can take the test at a licensed Test Centre at your own country or at one of the Test Centers in Germany. (We know they are in German, by this time you must be at intermediate level)!

How and When do I register for the TestDaf Test?
You can register online at www.testdaf.de, where you can choose the country, city and the test centre of your preference. Or you can contact the Goethe Institute and they can arrange for registration. The registration begins 8 weeks prior to examination dates and lasts four weeks. You can withdraw from the test at any time up till the last day but you will be charged about 15% of the total fees as administrative costs.

How and When do I get the results?

The results will be mailed to your address between six to eight weeks after taking the test.

What is the structure of TestDaf and what are subtests?
All the topics and tasks of the test are of general academic knowledge and are suitable for candidates from any academic background.
The TestDaf is comprised of four subtests:

1. Reading Comprehension: 3 reading texts with 30 items. Duration - 60 minutes.
2. Listening Comprehension: 3 listening tasks with 25 items. Duration - 40 minutes.
3. Written Composition: 1 writing task. Duration - 60 minutes.
4. Oral Presentation: 7 speaking tasks. Duration - 30 minutes.

Total duration of test (excluding breaks) = 3 hours and 10 minutes

More hints and tips at http://www.testdaf.de/teilnehmer/tn-vorbereitung_tipp.php.