Anyone who wants to study in Germany usually has to prove that they can follow lectures and seminars in German. For applications from abroad, this proof is often the point where documents stall. It is worth knowing the recognised certificates and their levels before you commit to a test.
Short answer: The framework regulation for the German language test for university admission (RO-DT) names DSH, TestDaF, the German part of the preparatory college examination (Studienkolleg) and DSD II. For unrestricted admission, DSH-2 or TestDaF with at least TDN 4 in every part counts. Which proof applies to your course is decided by the university. The basis is the 2015 version of the framework regulation with the DSH annex of 2019. Last updated: November 2026.
The most important points in brief
- The framework regulation names four proofs of language ability for study: DSH, TestDaF, the German part of the preparatory college examination and DSD II.
- DSH-2 as an overall result allows unrestricted admission, while DSH-1 only allows restricted admission.
- For the TestDaF, TDN 4 in every sub-test counts as proof for unrestricted admission.
- Goethe C2 and telc C1 Hochschule exempt you from the proof under the framework regulation.
- The requirements of your course on the university website take precedence over general overviews.
Which proofs the framework regulation names
The framework regulation for the German language test for university admission (RO-DT) is issued by the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) and the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK). Its section 2 lists the proofs that count as evidence of language ability for study. The table shows the levels named for unrestricted admission.
| Proof | Provision in the RO-DT | Level for unrestricted admission |
|---|---|---|
| DSH (German language test for university admission) | section 3 | DSH-2 as overall result (section 3 (3)), DSH-3 above it, DSH-1 only for restricted admission |
| TestDaF | section 4 | every sub-test at least TDN 4 (section 4 (5)), TDN 5 above it, TDN 3 is the entry level |
| German part of the preparatory college examination (Feststellungsprüfung) | section 5 | passed German part (section 5 (2)) |
| DSD II (German language diploma of the KMK) | section 6 | gives the language part of the university entrance qualification for foreign pupils (section 6 (5)); the rule names no level |
The RO-DT goes back to a basic decision from June 2004 and exists in the version of HRK and KMK from November 2015. The DSH model examination regulation (Annex 1) was adopted by the HRK in March 2019, while the TestDaF examination regulation (Annex 2) is in its 2004 version. Universities implement the rules in their own examination regulations, some of which are more recent. The current regulation of your university is therefore what counts.
What the DSH levels mean
DSH-2 is the level that allows unrestricted admission to all courses. DSH-1 is the entry level, at which the university can only admit you with restrictions. DSH-3 lies above the standard. Under Annex 1, section 5 (6), at least 57 percent (DSH-1), 67 percent (DSH-2) or 82 percent (DSH-3) of the requirements in both parts are needed.
For the TestDaF, the levels TDN 3 to TDN 5 matter. TDN 3 is the entry level, TDN 4 in every sub-test suffices for unrestricted admission, and TDN 5 lies above that. For applications you should therefore have each sub-test checked, not only the overall result.
Goethe, telc and other certificates
In the RO-DT, Goethe and telc certificates appear mainly as exemptions. Under section 8 (2), the Goethe certificate C2, the Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom, and the telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule exempt you from the proof, among others. The regulation names no exemption for a lower level. Whether a B2 certificate is enough for your course is decided by the university.
An overview that many universities use for applications from abroad lists DSH and TestDaF levels as well as Goethe, telc, ÖSD and DTZ certificates. It names no uniform levels for all examinations, and the status dates of the individual pages differ. The overview helps with comparison but does not replace the requirements of your university.
Example: the Studienkolleg in Frankfurt
For the Studienkolleg in Frankfurt, the application requires a language proof at level B1, for example a certificate, telc B1 or TestDaF 4×3, or a completed B2 language course. The admission test is an electronic C-test that is only in German. According to the page, you cannot be exempted from it. As test date for the summer semester 2027 the page names 16 January 2027.
This example shows that the levels for the application and for admission can differ. Ask every office which level it requires and for what purpose. More about the procedure at a preparatory college is in our article on the Studienkolleg.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the TestDaF or the DSH?
Not necessarily both. The framework regulation names several routes, and the university decides which proof applies to your course. A university can recognise several proofs, so check the requirements of your target university first.
Is a Goethe certificate at B2 enough?
Under the framework regulation, the Goethe certificate C2 and the telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule exempt you from the proof. A B2 certificate is not named there as an exemption. The university clarifies with its own rules whether it is enough for your course.
How long is a language certificate valid?
Whether and how long a certificate counts is set by the university itself. The framework regulation contains no general period that could be named here. Ask before you apply and keep the original.
What is the difference between DSH and TestDaF?
Both are regulated in the framework regulation as university proofs, each with its own levels. The DSH uses levels 1 to 3, while the TestDaF uses TDN 3 to TDN 5. Which test you choose depends on availability, dates and the rules of your university.
What to consider when choosing
The choice of proof depends mainly on the requirements, and less on which examination appears most convenient. If your university accepts the DSH, a TestDaF is not automatically equivalent, and the reverse also applies. Check the course first, then the university, and only then the examination.
Timing also matters. A result that arrives shortly before the application deadline can endanger the application if documents must be submitted later. Plan with a buffer and clarify early by when a proof must be in place.
What to do now
- Check the requirements of your course on the university website before you book an examination.
- Submit the proof in the required level and look for exemption rules.
- Clarify how long the certificate is valid before you invest money in a course or examination.
- Plan a preparation course if needed and observe the university’s registration deadlines.
Related articles
- Studying in Germany as an international student: the overview
- Studienkolleg: admission, costs and procedure for foreign applicants
- Applying for a student visa: procedure at the consulate
- Staying in Germany after your degree: which residence permit fits
Sources: Framework regulation for the German language test for university admission (RO-DT), HRK and KMK, version 2015 with annexes (PDF), uni-assist language table, German, 2026 (PDF), Studienkolleg Frankfurt, admission page (status as stated on the page).
Last updated: November 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
