In order to study in Germany, you must demonstrate that you are fluent in either English or German. Unless you are a native speaker or have graduated from an English or German-speaking program, you must prove by turning in an official language certificate.

English language certifications accepted in Germany

While all German universities have established procedures for German language certifications, there is no legal necessity for German colleges to recognize a specific English certificate. This means that each university can determine for itself which English language credentials to recognize. As a result, you should ensure that the programs you intend to apply to recognize your English language certificate as acceptable proof of your language competency. However, two exams are recognized by practically all German institutions. They are as follows:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• IELTS Test (The International English Language Testing System)

All colleges do not recognize their well-known certifications. In that situation, you should check with the International Office of the university of your choice to see if the credential you have will be accepted. Each program is free to choose its degree of English proficiency. As a result, the minimum performance expected of you differs for each university. Common examples include:

• Cambridge Assessment English C1 Advanced (formerly known as CAE)
• BULATS (Business Language Testing Service)
• Telc English B2-C1 University (The European Language Certificate)
• London Chamber of Commerce and Industry – LCCI Certificates
• TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
• UNIcert certificate Graduate Record Examinations – GRE Subject Tests

Required Level of English proficiency to study in Germany

When it comes to establishing English language requirements, colleges and programs can make their selections. That is why you should verify with the program of your choosing to find out which English language certificate and which competency level they require you to provide. Many German universities utilize the parameters specified by the Council of Europe in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages to tell candidates how well they should speak English (CEFR). There are six levels on this scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2):

A1 is the lowest level and indicates that the learner is a beginner. C2 is the highest level that may be attained. Level B2 corresponds to upper intermediate language skills, whereas level C1 corresponds to advanced language skills.

Which English proficiency test is the best one for you?

Because practically all colleges approve of TOEFL and IELTS, you should take one of them. It is worth noting that both assessments are standardized, and they are equally difficult or simple to pass, depending on where you take them. Because the relevant institutions have educated the examiners and graders, they can assure impartial evaluation across all test locations and nations. We strongly advise you to take both tests. The price differential may influence your selection between the two tests in your area, the frequency with which the examination is offered in your country, or the presence of a test center nearby. Because test slots might fill up quickly, it is best to reserve yours as soon as possible. Another factor to consider while selecting a test is the exam format. The TOEFL iBT, for example, requires you to do the speaking component with a computer, but the IELTS requires you to communicate with a human/invigilator.

Is it possible to study in Germany without taking the TOEFL or IELTS?

The answer is YES! As mentioned earlier, different kinds of English language proficiency tests can be taken to study in Germany besides TOEFL and IELTS. Your preferred university must accept this credential. Some programs at the TU Munich, for example, accept GMAT scores to confirm candidates’ language competency, and some programs accept this as an option. If English is your first language or you hold a bachelor’s degree in English, you can study in Germany without a language certificate.

Handing over the language certificate past the application deadline? A BIG NO-NO

Because your language certificate is part of your application, it must be submitted before the application date. However, suppose you do not have one. In that case, some colleges allow candidates to apply with a placeholder, such as a language certificate at a lower level and then submit the needed language certificate later. The candidate may be allowed on the condition that they produce a language certificate at a sufficient level while enrolling. Keep in mind that if you need to apply for a visa, you will also need to provide proof of language competency or your desire to enroll in a language course to demonstrate that you are an acceptable and serious applicant who can acquire the visa.