TestDaF and DSH Preparation

TestDaF

Four parts: Leseverstehen, Hörverstehen, Schriftlicher Ausdruck and Mündlicher Ausdruck. The writing task is a graph description followed by an argued position; the speaking part is recorded rather than taken with a partner, which changes how you must prepare.

DSH

Set and marked by the university itself, so the format varies. It typically includes a long academic reading text with comprehension and language questions, a listening section based on a lecture, a structured written text, and an oral exam.

Which one to take

Take TestDaF if you are applying from abroad or to several universities, because it is standardised and accepted everywhere. Take DSH if you are already in Germany and admitted to a specific university that offers it.

How to prepare

• Train graph description as a fixed formula — it is learnable and worth a large share of the writing mark
• Practise speaking against a timer with no partner, because TestDaF records you alone
• Read academic German daily; the reading text is longer than anything at B2
• Get every written attempt graded against the academic criteria

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between TestDaF and DSH?

TestDaF is a standardised exam offered worldwide and reported as TDN 3 to 5. DSH is set by the individual German university and graded DSH-1 to DSH-3. Most programmes accept TestDaF 4 or DSH-2.

What level is TestDaF 4?

TDN 4 corresponds to a strong C1 and is the usual admission requirement for degree programmes taught in German.

How do I prepare for the TestDaF speaking part?

Practise alone against a timer, because the exam records your answers without a partner. Deutschtrainer runs timed speaking tasks with AI grading in the same format.