Hochschulen in Deutschland · Level B2–C2
DSH: Exam Format & Preparation
The DSH is the German universities’ own language exam for international applicants. Passing it at DSH-2 meets the language requirement for nearly all degree programmes in Germany.
- Level
- B2–C2 – DSH-1 to DSH-3
- Exam provider
- Hochschulen in Deutschland
- Duration
- around 3–4 hours written plus about 20 minutes oral
- Oral exam
- Individual exam
- Separate modules
- No, one complete exam
- Preparation
- approx. 800–1.000 teaching units
DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): the essentials
The DSH is the German universities’ own language exam for international applicants. Passing it at DSH-2 meets the language requirement for nearly all degree programmes in Germany. The DSH can only be taken in Germany at a university or preparatory college. Each university sets the structure and timing of the sections itself within the national framework. Candidates who want more flexibility often choose TestDaF or telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule instead.
The DSH is not run by a central institute but by the universities and preparatory colleges themselves. It is based on a nationwide framework, so results are mutually recognised by all 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 DSH required for?
Typical situations in which this certificate is required or recommended:
- Admission to most degree programmes (DSH-2)
- Medicine, law and language-intensive subjects (often DSH-3)
- Some technical or artistic programmes (sometimes DSH-1)
- Completion of a university’s preparatory German course
A passed DSH is recognised by all universities in Germany; most degree programmes require DSH-2. 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 |
|---|---|
| Listening | varies by university |
| Reading | varies by university |
| Academic language structures | varies by university |
| Writing | varies by university |
| Speaking (individual exam) | approx. 20 minutes |
The written exam takes around three to four hours depending on the university. The pass mark is 57% (DSH-1); DSH-2 requires at least 67% and DSH-3 at least 82%, in both the written and the oral part.
Information as of November 2026. The provider’s current exam regulations are binding: Hochschulen in Deutschland.
What you need to be able to do
The DSH tests whether you can follow a degree taught in German: understanding a lecture and taking notes, working through an academic-style text, transforming grammatical structures typical of academic German and writing an argumentative text. The result is DSH-1 (from 57%), DSH-2 (from 67%) or DSH-3 (from 82%).
How to prepare for DSH
For this level you should expect, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, around 800–1.000 teaching units of 45 minutes each. What matters is that you do not just learn German but train specifically for the exam format.
- Get sample papers from the exact university where you will sit the exam; structure and weighting differ in the details.
- Drill the “academic language structures”: passive, nominalisation, participial attributes, subjunctive.
- Practise note-taking during lectures; the listening text is usually read only twice.
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
You take the DSH directly at a German university or preparatory college, usually shortly before the semester starts. Many universities only admit candidates who have applied to or been accepted by that university. The university usually announces results within a few days to weeks.
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 DSH certificate is in principle 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: DSH
How long does the DSH exam take?
The exam comprises around 3–4 hours written plus about 20 minutes oral. 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?
The written exam takes around three to four hours depending on the university. The pass mark is 57% (DSH-1); DSH-2 requires at least 67% and DSH-3 at least 82%, in both the written and the oral part.
How long does it take to prepare for DSH?
As a guide, reaching level B2–C2 takes around 800–1.000 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 DSH certificate is in principle valid indefinitely.
Can I retake the exam?
Yes, but many universities limit the number of retakes. The exact rule is set out in each university’s exam regulations.
Can you get DSH 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: DSH
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.
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