Germany accepts B1, B2, and C1 CEFR certificate levels for student visa applications, with most undergraduate and postgraduate programs requiring B2 or higher. Accepted certificates include Goethe-Zertifikat, telc, TestDaF, ÖSD, and a few listed international equivalents.
Before we explore the details, you can check your English level to see where you stand: Check my English level.
Recognized CEFR Levels and Equivalent Language Tests for German Student Visa
For international students planning to study in Germany, meeting the language requirements is as crucial as obtaining your admission letter. The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) defines six levels—A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2—each reflecting a specific proficiency band. German institutions typically require a minimum B2 level for undergraduate study, while many postgraduate programs prefer C1, especially for courses taught exclusively in German.
Think of CEFR like a ladder: A1 and A2 are the first steps, good for short chats and travel. B1 and B2 open doors to deeper interaction and academic life; by C1, you’re not just climbing but practically running up. The certificates accepted by German authorities for these visa levels come from trusted testing bodies. Here’s a direct comparison of major certificates accepted by universities, embassies, and the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office):
| CEFR Level | Accepted for Student Visa | Goethe-Zertifikat | telc | TestDaF | ÖSD | International English Test (IET) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | No | Goethe-Zertifikat A1 | telc Deutsch A1 | Not available | ÖSD Zertifikat A1 | IET A1 |
| A2 | No | Goethe-Zertifikat A2 | telc Deutsch A2 | Not available | ÖSD Zertifikat A2 | IET A2 |
| B1 | Rarely (some foundation courses) | Goethe-Zertifikat B1 | telc Deutsch B1 | TestDaF TDN 3 | ÖSD Zertifikat B1 | IET B1 |
| B2 | Yes (most bachelor/undergrad) | Goethe-Zertifikat B2 | telc Deutsch B2 | TestDaF TDN 4 | ÖSD Zertifikat B2 | IET B2 |
| C1 | Yes (postgrad/master, technical fields) | Goethe-Zertifikat C1 | telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule | TestDaF TDN 5 | ÖSD Zertifikat C1 | IET C1 |
| C2 | Accepted, but not required | Goethe-Zertifikat C2 | telc Deutsch C2 | Not available | ÖSD Zertifikat C2 | IET C2 |
Key takeaways for applicants:
- B2 is the safe minimum for bachelor’s admissions and most student visas.
- C1 is generally required for master’s degree programs or those in demanding fields.
- Accepted certificates must be from officially recognized providers for visa acceptance.
Official List of Institutions and Accepted Certificates in Germany
Not every university in Germany has the same rules, but most major institutions (such as Freie Universität Berlin, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, and RWTH Aachen) rely on certificates from the likes of Goethe-Institut, TestDaF Institute, telc, and ÖSD. These schools frequently update their policies to adapt to changing federation or EU standards.
Certificate recognition also involves Germany’s public bodies. The Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) and local Ausländerbehörde play critical roles in confirming that your certificate matches the claimed CEFR level. These authorities check authenticity, cross-reference with issuing institutions, and may request direct verification. Imagine passing airport security: Valid documentation speeds you right through, but any doubt means a longer review, so getting your certificates from widely-accepted organizations is like having TSA PreCheck.
If you want to progress even further, especially with spoken English, universities will sometimes support students in moving up the ladder. For practical tips on switching from intermediate to C1 proficiency, see the resource From Intermediate to Advanced: How to Speak English Like a C1 Student.
- Top German universities tend to trust certificates from international bodies with robust verification systems.
- Bundesagentur für Arbeit can also advise on labor market language needs for student work visas.
How to Obtain and Authenticate a CEFR Certificate in Germany
The process for earning an eligible CEFR certificate is straightforward but requires timely action. First, register for your chosen test—Goethe, telc, TestDaF, ÖSD, or International English Test (IET)—either in Germany or through designated international centers. Most tests have several sittings per year and offer online registration, although slots can fill up quickly.
After taking the exam, successful candidates receive an official certificate. Remember, a CEFR certificate is only valid for visa if it includes exam center details, signature, and security marks. Treat it like a key to your new life in Germany. For authentication, some embassies may request notarization or require a digital verification code. When submitting documents for your visa, always include the original certificate and certified translations if the document isn’t in German or English.
- Register for your test at least two months ahead.
- Double-check that your chosen certificate matches the requirements of your target university and visa type.
- Keep digital and paper copies safe—you may need them for both the university and the Ausländerbehörde.
Consider scheduling your language test at least three months before applying for your German student visa. This buffer gives you time to retake the exam if needed and avoid last-minute stress during the document submission phase. The exam certificate is your ticket—don’t leave it to chance.
FAQ
Which CEFR certificate level do most German student visas require?
Most German student visas require at least a B2 certificate; some master’s or specialized programs may demand C1.
Is the International English Test (IET) accepted by German universities?
IET is gaining recognition and is accepted by some institutions, but always verify directly with your university and the embassy before applying.
What is the validity period of a CEFR language certificate?
Although certificates don’t “expire,” many universities and visa authorities prefer documents issued within the last two years for current proficiency.
Who checks my certificate’s authenticity during the visa process?
The Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) and German consulates will verify your certificate directly with the issuing institution as part of their standard background checks.
Can I submit an English-language CEFR certificate for a program taught in German?
No, German-taught programs require proof of German proficiency—English certificates work only for programs taught fully in English.
To improve your chances of admission, start preparing for your language test and review what your target university asks for early.