TestDaF-Institut (g.a.s.t.) · Level B2–C1
TestDaF: Exam Format & Preparation
TestDaF is the central language exam for anyone who wants to study in Germany. It tests German at levels B2 to C1 and can be taken in your home country, so your result is ready in time for your application.
- Level
- B2–C1 – TDN 3 to TDN 5
- Exam provider
- TestDaF-Institut (g.a.s.t.)
- Duration
- approx. 3 h 10 min of test time
- Oral exam
- On a computer, without an interlocutor
- Separate modules
- No, one complete exam
- Preparation
- approx. 700–1.000 teaching units
TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): the essentials
TestDaF is the central language exam for anyone who wants to study in Germany. It tests German at levels B2 to C1 and can be taken in your home country, so your result is ready in time for your application. The format described here is the digital TestDaF, which is taken entirely on a computer and has replaced the earlier paper-based version at most test centres. The fee in Germany is currently around 210 euros; abroad it varies by country.
TestDaF is developed and marked centrally by the TestDaF Institute of g.a.s.t. (Society for Academic Study Preparation and Test Development). It was designed specifically for international applicants to German universities. You can read more about the levels at the Council of Europe (CEFR) and in our overview of all German certificates.
What is TestDaF required for?
Typical situations in which this certificate is required or recommended:
- Admission to bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programmes in Germany
- Applications via uni-assist and directly to universities
- Scholarship applications, for example to the DAAD
- Proof of academic language skills for research positions
TestDaF is accepted as proof of language ability by all universities in Germany. We clarify with you exactly which level your embassy, authority or university requires, if needed together with our visa application assistance.
Exam structure and duration
| Section | Duration |
|---|---|
| Reading | approx. 55 minutes |
| Listening | approx. 40 minutes |
| Writing | approx. 60 minutes |
| Speaking (on a computer, without an interlocutor) | approx. 35 minutes |
There is no overall grade: each of the four parts is rated TDN 3, 4 or 5. For most programmes universities require TDN 4 in all four parts (“4 × 4”); some subjects accept lower results.
Information as of November 2026. The provider’s current exam regulations are binding: TestDaF-Institut (g.a.s.t.).
What you need to be able to do
TestDaF tests the German you need at university: understanding lectures and academic texts, describing charts, arguing a point and speaking in seminars and office hours. Each of the four parts is graded separately as TDN 3, TDN 4 or TDN 5, which corresponds to levels B2 to C1.
How to prepare for TestDaF
For this level you should expect, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, around 700–1.000 teaching units of 45 minutes each. What matters is that you do not just learn German but train specifically for the exam format.
- Get used to the digital test interface: typing, note-taking and speaking into a headset all happen under time pressure.
- Practise describing charts and statistics with fixed phrases.
- Record timed spoken answers; in the speaking part there is no examiner in front of you, only the recording.
Online course German C1
Structured lessons and exercises for all four skills, at your own pace.
View course →Exam training
Practice tests in the format of the official exams with answers and audio.
View exam training →Speaking practice with a teacher
The oral part practised live, with feedback against the official criteria.
View speaking practice →Registration, dates and fees
TestDaF is offered at licensed test centres in Germany and around 100 countries worldwide, today mainly as the digital TestDaF taken on a computer. Results are available in the candidate portal around four weeks after the test date, where you can also download the certificate.
Each exam centre sets its own fee, which you pay directly to the centre. With our registration service we find a suitable date near you, tell you the current fee and guide you through registration.
Recognition and validity
The TestDaF certificate is valid indefinitely. The German government publishes current information on language requirements for visas and residence at Make it in Germany.
How we support you all the way to your certificate
- Assessment and plan. We clarify your goal, assess your current level and draw up a realistic timeline to your exam date.
- Focused preparation. With a course, mock exams and, if you wish, a personal teacher you learn exactly what the exam demands.
- Exam registration. We find a date and exam centre and help with forms and documents.
- Exam and next steps. You sit the exam in person. Afterwards we support you with your visa, applications or the next level.
Frequently asked questions: TestDaF
How long does the TestDaF exam take?
The exam comprises approx. 3 h 10 min of test time. Add breaks, the ID check and waiting time before the oral part; it is best to keep the whole day free.
What is the pass mark?
There is no overall grade: each of the four parts is rated TDN 3, 4 or 5. For most programmes universities require TDN 4 in all four parts (“4 × 4”); some subjects accept lower results.
How long does it take to prepare for TestDaF?
As a guide, reaching level B2–C1 takes around 700–1.000 teaching units. If you already have the level and only need to train for the exam format, focused preparation often gets you exam-ready in four to eight weeks.
How much does the exam cost?
The fee is set by each exam centre and differs by country and location. We tell you the current fee for your preferred location as part of your consultation.
How long is the certificate valid?
The TestDaF certificate is valid indefinitely.
Can I retake the exam?
Yes, TestDaF can be retaken as often as you like; each sitting produces its own complete certificate.
Can you get TestDaF without taking the exam?
No. A genuine certificate is issued only by the exam provider after you pass the exam. Offers that promise a certificate “without an exam” are forgeries: embassies and authorities verify certificates directly with the issuer, and using forged documents is a criminal offence that can cost you your visa or residence permit. The safe route is good preparation, and that is what we help you with.
Related certificates
Ask for advice: TestDaF
Tell us briefly what you need the certificate for and by when. Within 24 hours you receive a personal reply: which level you need, how long preparation takes and where you can sit the exam. The first consultation is free and without obligation.
Or call us: +49 176 35398433