Knowledge of the language is the key to a successful career in any country in the world. German tests must be taken by those who are going to study or work in Germany. There are a huge number of testing systems and companies that conduct testing. Based on the test results, the applicant receives a certificate confirming his language proficiency at a certain level.
What are the levels of German language proficiency?
To assess the level of proficiency in German, the unified European system CEFR is used. It measures language proficiency in all aspects such as writing, reading, speaking and listening.
There are three levels of language proficiency, each, in turn, is subdivided into two more sublevels. Thus, there are six levels:
- A1 or "Survival Level". A person understands words or simple phrases in situations of everyday communication. When reading, recognizes individual words, as well as simple sentences, for example, phrases on posters. In the dialogue, the applicant can take part only if the interlocutor speaks in slow motion. Writing level - simple sentences or filling out forms.
- A2 "Prethreshold level". A person uses words and statements that relate to topics that are important to him, understands what is being said in small sentences. He also reads simple texts and finds enough general information in them. Accepts simple private messages. Communication is possible in typical situations, for example, on everyday topics, but a person cannot conduct independent active communication.
- B1 or "Threshold level" implies an understanding of clearly pronounced statements on well-known topics that a person has to deal with in society. A person with this level of language distinguishes parts of speech, knows how to build grammatical forms of verbs and pronouns, can understand television programs if the presenter speaks clearly and slowly enough. In the process of reading, he understands texts without specific vocabulary. Communication is possible only in everyday situations or on familiar topics. The same goes for the letter.
- B2 or "Threshold advanced level" assumes an understanding of lectures and extended reports with complex argumentation, if the topic is familiar. Also, a person understands the content of a significant number of films if the characters speak a literary language. As for literature, a person can easily read articles on contemporary problems, as well as fiction. Can freely participate in dialogues without any preparation, defend his point of view and know how to substantiate his opinion. He competently writes long messages on issues of interest.
- C1 or "Level of professional proficiency" assumes an understanding of detailed messages, even with a fuzzy logical structure, for example, any films and television programs. Also, a person can read complex texts, both artistic and specialized. In dialogue, he speaks fluently and spontaneously, expresses his thoughts and opinions, actively supports the conversation. Can express all thoughts in writing, write texts of any style.
- C2 or “Level of proficiency in perfection” implies an understanding of any spoken language, at any speed, the ability to speak and write on any topic using extensive language means.
DSH Certificate Exam
The DSH exam is taken by those who want to study in Germany. To pass it, you must come directly to the country where the exam is held at German universities. This is the main difference from other similar exams that can be taken in the country where you live. Also, this type of exam is preferred by German universities, as it can show the applicant's knowledge in a wider range.
There are three types of exam: at the B1 level (DSH1), at the B2 / C1 level (DSH2), at the C1 / C2 level (DSH3).
To enter the university, a second level exam is taken. A third level certificate is required for those who are applying for a master's degree.
Applicants over 17 years old who already have a secondary education certificate are allowed to take the test. Testing is carried out six times a year, but each university has a separate schedule. Its cost is 180 euros.
The test consists of three parts: grammar, written test, and vocabulary listening.
DSD Certificate Exam
Students from all over the world can take the DSD exam in German. This certificate is recognized by all educational institutions, and its presence is a plus when hiring. Basically, this is a state exam for those who want to pursue higher education in Germany. If the exam is passed on A2 / B1, then this gives the right to enter the preparatory departments of German universities. If your level is B2 / C1, then you have the right to enter any university in Germany without an additional exam in German, and you can also apply for a DAAD scholarship.
This exam can be taken by students of schools in which German is studied in depth. The child must study the language for at least 7 years (1600 or more academic hours) and take a special training course. Also, before applying, students take a pilot exam and receive admission.
DAF Certificate Exam
DAF is a German language exam designed for foreigners who want to study at German universities. It is also handed over to get a job in Germany or for an internship.
The minimum level for passing DAF is B1, so it is worth taking the exam only if you have some experience in learning German.
In order to check your level, you can take the DAF online German test. You can take a practice test here.
The exam consists of four parts: reading, listening, writing and speaking. For each block of tests, you can get from 1 to 5 points. The test can be taken at one of the certification centers where you live. The exam costs 130 euros.
Preparing for the German test
It is almost impossible to prepare for any of the German language tests on your own. The fact is that the tasks are formed according to a certain principle and from habit, even a person with good knowledge of the language will not be easy.
The ideal option is to take special test preparation courses in Germany. Many universities and colleges have them. If it is not possible to go to Germany, then you can take courses at the center where testing is taken, or simply at a specialized center. It is important that these are specialized courses that prepare you for the type of exam that you plan to take.
Conclusion
By passing language tests in German, you can enter a prestigious university or get a job in Germany. There are several types of tests designed for students, graduates or those who have already graduated. To prepare for the tests, there are courses both in Germany and in any country where you can take the test.
