Germany guide 路 verified 2026-07-04
Language Tests for Germany: IELTS, TOEFL and Alternatives
Language & tests
Two language tracks: an English-taught program needs proof of English; a German-taught program needs proof of German. For India, the German mission is strict about which certificates it accepts, this catches students out every year.
English-taught programs (university admission)
ConditionalIELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall, min ~5.5 to 6.0 per band
This is the admission cutoff set per program, many Masters ask 6.5 overall (some 7.0 for competitive ones), Bachelors often 6.0. TOEFL is accepted by many universities, but see the visa-office restriction below for India.
German-taught programs
ConditionalTestDaF, DSH, Goethe/telc/脰SD (usually C1)
Most German-taught Bachelors/Masters require ~C1; some Bachelors accept B2 + a Studienkolleg.
GRE/GMAT
OptionalNot usually required; asked by some Masters/MBA
Check the individual program.
- Book IELTS/TestDaF early, seats fill months ahead near intake deadlines.
- Even for English-taught programs, an A1/A2 German certificate strengthens the visa file and daily life; some universities require it.
- Match the test score to the visa timeline, not just admission: the certificate must be ready for the visa appointment.
For applications in India, the German mission accepts Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan, 脰SD, telc (German) and IELTS or ALTE-member tests (English). Duolingo English Test, Pearson PTE, and the TOEFL Home Edition are NOT recognised for visa purposes in India, even if a university admits on them. Always secure a visa-office-accepted certificate.
Where this fits
This is one step of the full Germany journey: admission, tests, application, visa, money, arrival and stay-back, every figure cited to an official source.
More on Germany
Bramica is independent and takes no commission from any university, recruiter or agency. This page is information, not immigration advice. Rules, fees and thresholds change; confirm the current requirement on the official source before acting on it.