2. Check the requirements

Aptitude test

The TestAS is intended for international students who wish to apply for admission to an undergraduate degree programme at a German university. It measures the applicant’s general and subject-related aptitude necessary for completing such a programme successfully. You don’t require any specific knowledge or expertise about your subject of study when you take the test.

Short & Sweet

With the Test for Foreign Students (TestAS), you can realistically assess your chances of completing your degree programme successfully.

You can take the TestAS in either English or Germany.

You can take the test digitally or paper-based.

There are around 400 test centers available in 80 countries worldwide.

Structure

This is how the test works

Advantages for students

The test results can identify your strengths and help you choose a field of study which matches your abilities. Following the test, you gain a more realistic perspective of your chances of earning a degree in your desired subject area. You can also compare how well you did with others who took the test. And you become familiar with the typical demands of your desired degree programme.

 

Advantages for universities

The TestAS offers universities a standardised method for comparing the scholastic aptitude of their applicants. The test evaluates the applicants’ suitability for their desired degree programme regardless of their country of origin or its grading system. Each university can then select those students which possess the necessary prerequisites for the degree programme in question. It is possible to accurately predict academic progress on the basis of the TestAS results.

A group of students listening to a lecture
A group of students listening to a lecture© DAAD/ Henning Ross

Recognition

TestAS recognition varies from university to university. While the TestAS is an obligatory prerequisite for admission to some universities, others do not require it, but may recommend it.

TestAS offers you advantages at some higher education institutions. Depending on the federal state, it can also be used as an admission test for applicants who have not gained a university entrance
qualification (e.g. Abitur). After passing the TestAS, you are no longer required to attend a . 

The TestAS certificate is recognised by German universities which have integrated the TestAS into their admission policies. Each university is permitted to determine how heavily to weight the TestAS results. Please inquire at the university (or faculty) of your choice as to whether the TestAS is considered in the admission decision.

You have to know that for the test

  • TestAS dates: several times a year
  • Languages: German or English
  • Testing centres: 400 locations in 80 countries

Preparation and requirements

To pass the language component of the TestAS, your language skills should be equivalent to level B1 of the European Framework of Reference for Languages. Please keep in mind, however, that B1 is below the level required if you wish to study in Germany.

Important! The TestAS is not the same as the TestDaF! The TestDaF is a language examination that assesses your German language skills, while the TestAS measures cognitive skills that are necessary for university study.

The TestAS is not a measure of how much you know, but rather is an assessment of your cognitive skills. No specific knowledge is tested. You can prepare well for the rest by familiarising yourself with the exam format and the structure of the TestAS. You will find detailed information and sample tasks on . 

More information




Conclusion

You don’t require any specific knowledge or expertise about your subject of study, you can prepare well for the TestAS with the preparation material on the website.

If TestAS is taken into account for your admission depends on your chosen university or faculty. Please contact your university directly for more information.