German Proficiency Test
This exam is conducted by Goethe-Institut or Max Muller Bhavan to assesses German proficiency for those whose native language is not German. There are different types of language proficiency test: Zertifikat Deutsch, TestDaF, DSH, TELC, ÖSD, and ÖIF. These exams are essential for universities, business organizations and government establishments to know more about prospective employees’ language skills and personalities.
1. Zertifikat Deutsch (ZD): This computer-based online test is designed according to the given guidelines of the CEFR. The results and report are made available immediately after you have completed the test.
2. TestDaF Exam: TestDaF assesses German language skills at three levels: TDN 3, 4, and 5, which is equivalent to B2.1, B2.2, C1.1, and C1.2 of the Goethe-Zertifikat. The certificate is valid indefinitely. All the four language skills are assessed separately.
3. DSH Exam : This test is not standardized. It is conducted at German universities and varies accordingly.
4. TELC GmbH – The European Language Certificates: TELC, partners with Germany’s Federal Government to test your German skills (Deutsch).The tests are available in 11 European languages with over 80 different certificates.
5. ÖSD – German Language Certificate Austria: The Austrian German Language Diploma (OSD – Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) is a test approved by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Education, Science, and Cultural Affairs.The ÖSD exams are recognized in Austria and several universities in Germany, Switzerland, and South Tyrol (Italy).
6. ÖIF – Austrian Integration Fund: ÖIF (Österreichische Integrationsfonds) handles German tests for different skill levels across Austria and also evaluates immigrants whose linguistic ability in German at different levels, ranging from A1, that is, for beginners, to C2, for advanced German speakers.
