TestDaF language exam Preparation
In terms of studying overseas, Germany is considered one of the best study destinations. Germany provides some of the best universities in the world, and it attracts scores of students every year seeking high-quality education. A significant number of international students also choose courses taught in German. While most international students prefer English language courses, a significant number also choose courses taught in other languages. Similarly, German language course aspirants must also obtain a minimum percentile on a language proficiency test, such as the TestDaf, through which their knowledge and proficiency in the German language are evaluated, just as non-native English speakers need to take English proficiency tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE to pursue a wide range of degrees. You can also read on for details about the TestDaf test if you are interested in studying in Germany and taking courses in the German language.
Overview of TestDaF
An abbreviation for TestDaf Exam in German is “Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache” & “Test of German as a Foreign Language” in English. TestDaF internationally recognized, German language proficiency test assesses whether a candidate is proficient in German and able to study in Germany without IELTS or obtain employment in that country. Students who have chosen German as the medium of instruction and desire certification for the acquisition of language skills may apply for this test. Students who meet certain percentiles are fit to conduct research in German and study the German language.
Eligibility Criteria for TestDaf
When it comes to language proficiency tests, the candidates’ subject-based knowledge is not checked. Candidates should have studied the German language for 700 to 1000 hours at any recognized institute teaching the language at the intermediate level. Candidates are advised to check whether they meet the criteria for the intermediate level before taking the TestDaf exam. You can click on the official link right here and this 10 minutes test is all to give you a rough idea about where you stand.
Levels of TestDaf Exams
A test developed and administered by the TestDaf Institute, the TestDaf exam consists of various sections that assess the candidates’ Speaking, Listening, Writing, and Reading abilities. Candidates are graded according to their exam results based on one of three levels, namely:
- TDN 5 or TestDaF-Niveaustufe 5
- TDN 4 or TestDaF-Niveaustufe 4
- TDN 3 or TestDaF-Niveaustufe 3
The candidates should attain a minimum of TDN level 4 in each section so they can easily be admitted to any German course (subject to academic requirements and other requirements being met). Nevertheless, if a candidate attains TDN level 5, they are considered highly proficient in the German language.
Note: The above levels correspond to B2 to C1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
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Examination Pattern
Any student taking an exam should know the pattern and the types of questions asked. Knowing this information will help the student to prepare for the exam appropriately and thus the chances of them acing the test will increase dramatically. As the sections or subtests of the TestDaf exam progress, candidates will be required to answer multiple-choice questions and true-false questions about listening comprehension and reading comprehension. The exam will last for 3 hours and 10 minutes.
Here’s how it will work:
Reading Comprehension – Candidates must complete a section of the TestDaf exams in which they must answer three short texts containing 30 questions within 60 minutes. Each text can vary in difficulty level. Topics such as everyday life, basic knowledge of the world, socio-political themes, and general science would be covered.
Listening Comprehension – As part of the TestDaf exam, the candidates will listen to three audio texts, each of which has 25 questions/items. The purpose of this section is to measure the candidates’ ability to understand spoken German text. During the comprehension test, candidates will have to listen to dialogues relating to everyday life, a radio interview with four speakers, a brief lecture, etc. Depending on the level of difficulty, the test will last 40 minutes.
Written – TestDaf assesses the candidates’ writing abilities with one writing task lasting 60 minutes. They are expected to produce a well-structured text or essay on a given topic, such as statistics, guidelines, or other conclusions.
Oral – Candidate’s oral skills will be tested in this 30-minute oral section with seven tasks ranging from general topics to discussions related to a German study or work program and situations they may encounter in their everyday lives.
The following is the exact procedure candidates must follow when taking the TestDaf exam:
Subtests | Tasks | Duration |
Reading Comprehension | 30 Questions | 60 Minutes |
10 Minutes Break | ||
Listening Comprehension | 25 Questions | 40 Minutes |
30 to 60 Minutes Break | ||
Written Test | 1 Question | 60 Minutes |
10 Minutes Break | ||
Oral Test | 7 Questions | 30 Minutes |
Date to remember for TestDaf
The TestDaf Institute conducts the exam six times every year at 500 test centres across almost 100 countries. The evaluation process typically takes 6 weeks, so candidates should take this into account before choosing their test date. Thus, regardless of whether they are applying for a master’s or a PhD program in Germany, they should pick their exams dates well in advance of the application deadlines.
What is the TestDaf exam registration process?
As mentioned, the TestDaf exam is a gateway for people who want to study in Germany or work there. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register for the TestDaf exam:
- Candidates should have at least a basic understanding of the German language before applying for the test. For this purpose, they can enrol in any recognized institution to learn the language and become familiar with its contents.
- For registering for the TestDaf exam, candidates must possess a valid ID and passport.
- Candidates can register for TestDaf through the official website by visiting the official website. Once these conditions are met, they can register online. They must choose a country, test centre, and exam dates.
TestDaF is valid for how long?
However, even though the validity of the TestDaf is indefinite, some German universities require scores that are no older than 1, 2, or 3 years. It is therefore advisable to check with every institution you plan to apply to.
What is the maximum number of attempts?
Exams can be attempted as many times as you like, but before retaking them, you should improve your language skills.
The most efficient way to get a TestDaf certification is to learn the language well. In addition to clearing the exam, evaluating the cost of studying in Germany is an extremely important aspect of studying in Germany for Indian and other international students alike.
Sprach-Aktiv Academy is your one-stop solution to learn German language. We are one among the very few premium training institutes to offer updated long-distance German Online Classes across the globe. Our team of experts will assist you from teaching German language to getting certified and assisting in exam preparations. Best of Luck!
