Most German universities require official CEFR language certificates, typically at B2 or C1 level, for admission to English or German-taught courses. Recognized certificates include Cambridge, IELTS, and TestDaF, but acceptance criteria vary by state and university. Check the requirements early—having the right certificate can be the difference between a successful and a stalled application.
Applicants should prepare their documents ahead of time and understand which certificates and levels are accepted at their target university. If you need to be sure which CEFR level matches your ability, find my CEFR level online with a quick language check.
Anerkannte CEFR-Zertifikate und erforderliche Level für deutsche Universitäten
CEFR certificates serve as the official language currency for university admissions in Germany. They measure ability from basic (A1) to advanced (C2), with specific minimum levels determined by both degree type and university regulations. If you think of these certificates as tickets, some open all doors, while others only get you partway in.
| Certificate | Accepted CEFR Levels | Sample Use at Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge (FCE, CAE, CPE) | B2, C1, C2 | Bachelor (B2), Master/PhD (C1/C2) |
| IELTS Academic | B2, C1 | Engineering (B2), Humanities (C1) |
| TOEFL iBT | B2, C1 | Business (B2/C1) |
| TestDaF | B2, C1 | German-taught (C1 required) |
| International English Test (IET) | A1–C2 | Accepted at select universities |
Minimum required levels usually follow a clear pattern: B2 is common for Bachelor’s degrees, while C1 is often expected for Master’s or PhD admissions. It’s similar to a driver’s license: the heavier the vehicle (your degree), the more advanced your license (or CEFR level) must be.
Rules can shift between German states. For example, universities in Bavaria may demand C1 for some science programs, while those in Berlin might accept B2 for similar courses. Always check both university and regional regulations to avoid surprises.
Vergleich: CEFR-Nachweis versus IELTS, TOEFL und TestDaF für die Hochschulzulassung
CEFR levels aren’t just stand-alone measurements—they act as the backbone for equating other international language certificates. When a university asks for a B2 or C1 level, that requirement can usually be met with various certificates, not solely a CEFR-issued document.
| Exam | Typical CEFR Equivalence | Accepted by German Universities | Digital Format | Score Validity (years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Exams | B2–C2 | Yes | Yes/No (depends on test) | Lifetime |
| IELTS Academic | B1–C2 | Yes | Yes | 2 |
| TOEFL iBT | B2–C2 | Yes | Yes | 2 |
| TestDaF | B2–C1 | Yes | Yes | Forever (some schools limit) |
| International English Test (IET) | A1–C2 | Some universities, growing recognition | Yes | 2 |
So, what makes a certificate “better” for your application? The right one gets you through the admissions door faster and with fewer questions. For most international students, IELTS and TOEFL are safe bets for English, TestDaF for German, and Cambridge works if you want something that never officially expires.
If you’re preparing for job applications or need a practical test rehearsal, reading something like Pre-Employment English: Master Tests with Stunning Ease might bridge the gap between academic requirements and real-life use.
- Cambridge stays valid for life—no repeat tests needed.
- IELTS and TOEFL results expire after two years—timing matters.
- TestDaF is the key for German-taught courses.
- If your university accepts IET, it offers a flexible and digital-first approach.
Gültigkeit, Anerkennungsdauer und Überprüfung von CEFR-Zertifikaten in Deutschland
Validity periods affect more than just the test fee—they can impact your application year. Cambridge certificates don’t technically expire, but universities may set their own “maximum age” for documents. IELTS and TOEFL, on the other hand, have a strict two-year window, after which you must retest. It’s like buying milk: some cartons last a bit longer in your fridge, but all eventually go out of date.
Online verification is now the standard at most German universities. You’ll submit a digital copy, and admissions officers will check authenticity through official portals. This process cuts down on fraud and speeds up decision-making. If your document is missing or out of date, some universities let you hand in a new version later—others don’t offer second chances.
- Check the admission deadlines and language proof requirements carefully.
- Always scan and upload certificates in high resolution to avoid technical rejections.
- If your certificate expires while you’re applying, contact the university immediately for alternatives.
Don’t leave your certificate preparation until the last week. Today, set aside just 30 minutes to collect your current language proofs and check each one’s expiry date against university deadlines. Planning now avoids last-minute panic and gives you options if you need to retest.
FAQ
Which CEFR level do I need for a Bachelor’s degree in Germany?
Most universities require at least B2 for Bachelor programs, though some may ask for C1, especially for language-heavy courses.
Are online CEFR tests accepted by German universities?
Some universities now accept certified online exams, but always check official lists and confirm before taking an online-only test.
Does my CEFR certificate expire?
Cambridge certificates don’t officially expire, but others like IELTS and TOEFL are only valid for two years from the test date.
Can I apply with a lower CEFR level if I promise to improve later?
Almost never—universities expect proof of language skills at the time of application, not as a future plan.
How strict are universities about accepting older certificates?
Policies differ, but many limit certificates to tests taken within the last two years. Always confirm with your chosen university.
For students aiming to secure a place at a German university, start your test preparation early and document deadlines clearly. Making these steps routine is the surest way to avoid last-minute stress and application rejection.
