Study in Germany
TestDaF
Academic German for university study
Proof of German proficiency for university study, with separate results for four language skills.
The examination
Academic German for university study
TestDaF — Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache — assesses academic German around CEFR B2–C1. It is intended for candidates who need evidence of German proficiency for university study.
Who is it for?
- Applicants to German-taught bachelor’s or master’s programmes.
- Candidates whose university requires TestDaF as language evidence.
- Learners preparing to use German in an academic setting.
- Purpose
- German proficiency
- Range
- Approximately B2–C1
- Formats
- Digital or paper-based
- Validity
- Indefinite certificate
What does it assess?
Reading, listening, writing and speaking are assessed separately. Results are reported as TestDaF levels TDN 3, 4 or 5; performance below TDN 3 is reported accordingly. Confirm the required result in each skill with your university.
Format & modules
Both formats assess the four language skills at licensed test centres. Digital does not mean an at-home exam. The table below describes the digital format; paper-based tasks and timing differ, so prepare for the version you select.
Scroll horizontally to read every column.
| Digital section | Tasks / items | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 7 tasks / 34 items | Approx. 55 minutes |
| Listening | 7 tasks / 30 items | Approx. 40 minutes |
| Writing | 2 tasks | Approx. 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 7 tasks | Approx. 35 minutes |
| Total | Four skills | Approx. 190 minutes, plus instructions and breaks |
Additional trial tasks can affect task counts and processing times. Use the provider’s current model tasks for your selected format.
Results & validity
Results are normally available in the participant portal after approximately three weeks for digital TestDaF or six weeks for paper-based TestDaF. The certificate has indefinite validity; universities may set their own requirements for how recent the evidence must be.
Preparation with CDI
Ask about individual online preparation focused on academic reading, listening, writing and speaking, with attention to the task types and timing of your chosen format.
Start with the official tasks
- Choose digital or paper-based materials to match your registration. Start with the provider’s sample tasks before planning your study.
- Practise taking notes from academic reading and listening, then using that information in clear written and spoken answers.
- Work under the relevant time limits. Review the provider’s assessment guidance alongside your answers.
What to include in your enquiry
Include the exam and format or module, your intended university or programme, your current German level if relevant, and your target deadline. We will discuss the appropriate next step; no exam place or preparation package is booked through this enquiry.
Please contact us to confirm which German academic exams are currently available at our Alicante centre and which are preparation-only.
Ask about TestDaF preparationBefore you register
Choose your format, test centre and date through the official TestDaF registration route. Check the registration deadline, fee, personal details and identification/test-day documents before paying. CDI preparation enquiries do not register you for the examination.
Check current dates, fees, identification requirements and test-centre availability with the provider. An enquiry to CDI does not reserve an exam place.
Official provider information
Practical questions
Can I take digital TestDaF from home?
No. Both digital and paper-based TestDaF take place at licensed test centres. Confirm the format and centre through the official registration portal.
What result does my university require?
Check the requirement for each of the four skills. Results are reported separately as TDN levels; do not assume that one overall score or one university’s policy applies to every programme.
Can CDI prepare me or register me for the exam?
Ask CDI about individual online preparation for your chosen format. Exam administration, registration assistance and preparation are separate services: confirm current availability directly. Your preparation enquiry does not register you for TestDaF.
CDI Assessment Group
A clearer next step.
Tell us which exam or programme you are considering and your deadline. We can discuss the preparation options appropriate to your goal.