Germany is a top destination for international students pursuing a master’s degree, offering world-class education, low tuition fees, and excellent career opportunities. While many master’s programs are taught in English, some require proficiency in German, especially for programs taught entirely or partially in the German language.
This post explores the required German language levels for studying a master’s degree in Germany, the accepted language tests, and how to meet the language requirements.
1. Do You Need German Language Skills for a Master’s in Germany?
The level of German proficiency required depends on the language of instruction for your chosen master’s program:
- English-Taught Master’s Programs: No German is required, but learning basic German can help with daily life.
- German-Taught Master’s Programs: Requires a minimum of B2 or C1 level in German.
- Bilingual (English & German) Programs: May require at least A2 or B1 in German, depending on the university.
Many technical, business, and international studies programs are available in English, while humanities, social sciences, and education programs are often taught in German.
2. Required German Language Levels for Master’s Programs
German language proficiency is measured using the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which classifies learners from A1 (beginner) to C2 (native-like fluency).
| CEFR Level | Proficiency | Required for |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Basic understanding | Daily life in Germany |
| A2 | Elementary knowledge | Some bilingual programs |
| B1 | Intermediate level | Some programs & university preparatory courses |
| B2 | Upper-Intermediate | Required for some master’s programs |
| C1 | Advanced level | Required for most German-taught master’s programs |
| C2 | Near-native fluency | Rarely required for study but useful for professional careers |
- For fully German-taught programs, most universities require at least C1 German proficiency.
- For bilingual programs, universities often require A2 or B1 level German.
3. Accepted German Language Tests for Master’s Admission
If your master’s program requires German proficiency, you must prove your language skills with a recognized German language test. The most common exams accepted by German universities include:
3.1 TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- Accepted by all German universities.
- Minimum requirement: Level TDN 4 in all four sections (B2 to C1).
- Conducted in Germany and other countries worldwide.
3.2 DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
- Required by many universities for German-taught programs.
- DSH-2 (equivalent to C1) is the minimum required level.
- The test is only available in Germany and is conducted by universities.
3.3 Goethe-Zertifikat
- Offered by Goethe-Institut, available worldwide.
- Goethe-Zertifikat C1 is accepted for German-taught master’s programs.
3.4 Telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
- Specifically designed for university admission in Germany.
- Equivalent to C1 level and accepted by most universities.
3.5 Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (ÖSD)
- Recognized in Germany and Austria.
- C1 level is required for university admission.
3.6 OnSET (Online Placement Test)
- Some universities use OnSET to assess German proficiency.
- Typically used as a supplementary test, not a primary admission requirement.
4. Can You Study in Germany Without German?
Yes, many German universities offer master’s programs entirely in English, especially in Engineering, Business, and Natural Sciences.
To apply for an English-taught master’s program, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through:
- IELTS (Minimum 6.0 – 7.0)
- TOEFL (Minimum 80 – 100 iBT)
- PTE Academic (Minimum 59 – 65)
Although German is not required, learning basic German (A1 – A2 level) is recommended for daily life, networking, and part-time job opportunities in Germany.
5. How to Meet German Language Requirements for a Master’s in Germany
If your chosen master’s program requires B2 or C1 level German, follow these steps to meet the requirement:
Step 1: Check Your University’s Language Requirements
- Visit the official website of your university and check if your program requires German proficiency.
- Determine which language test is accepted for admission.
Step 2: Enroll in a German Language Course
- Study in Nigeria: Take courses at Goethe-Institut Nigeria (Lagos, Abuja) or private language centers.
- Study in Germany: Apply for university preparatory language courses (Studienkolleg).
- Online Courses: Platforms like Deutsche Welle, Babbel, and Duolingo offer self-paced learning.
Step 3: Register and Prepare for a Language Test
- Choose a recognized test (TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat, or Telc).
- Practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking in German.
Step 4: Take the Exam and Submit Your Certificate
- Once you pass your language test, submit your certificate with your master’s application.
6. What If You Do Not Meet the German Language Requirement?
If your German level is below B2 or C1, you have the following options:
Option 1: Apply for a Language Preparatory Course in Germany
- Some universities offer intensive German language programs for international students.
- After completing the course, you can take the DSH or TestDaF exam for admission.
Option 2: Choose an English-Taught Master’s Program
- Many universities in Germany offer fully English-taught master’s programs.
- You can study in Germany without taking a German language test.
Option 3: Learn German While Studying
- Even if you choose an English-taught program, you can take German courses to improve your skills.
- Many universities provide free or low-cost German language classes.
Related: Requirements For Master’s Degree in Germany for International Students
What German Language Level is Required for a Master’s in Germany?
- For German-taught master’s programs, a minimum of B2 or C1 German proficiency is required.
- For English-taught master’s programs, German is not required, but learning basic German (A1 – A2) is recommended.
- The most accepted language tests include TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat C1, and Telc C1 Hochschule.
- If you do not meet the German language requirement, you can take a preparatory language course or choose an English-taught program.
Understanding the language requirements will help Nigerian students and other international applicants successfully apply for their desired master’s program in Germany.