ifs courses
DSH
What is DSH?
The German Language Examination for University Entrance (DSH) is a language admission test for studying at a German university. In contrast to the TestDaF, the DSH is not standardised, but is set independently by individual universities.
DSH Test results
Since the provisions of the DSH differ from university to university, DSH test results are only partially recognised between different universities. Changing universities may therefore mean that you have to write a new DSH test. Only DSH tests registered at the Conference of University Rectors (HRK) can lead to a generally recognised result that must be accepted by all German universities.
The DSH Examination
In order to enrol for a DSH examination you will require either a certificate for B2 / C1 (telc / Goethe) or proof of more than a total of 600 teaching hours and completion of a level B2 course. Such proof can be obtained from IfS on completion of a B2 course. The enrolment deadlines and dates for the DSH examinations are set by the respective universities.
Format of the DSH examination
The DSH exam consists of a written and an oral section. The written test usually lasts about 5 hours and includes the following sections:
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Academic language structures
- Task-oriented text production
The admission requirement for the oral section is to pass the written test.
Since the content and requirements of the DSH examination vary greatly depending on the respective university and subject area, it is best to enquire directly at the particular university at which you wish to study. Of course we will also gladly assist you and offer advice in a personal consultation.
The DSH Grading Levels
The result of the DSH test is recorded in three grading levels (DSH 1 to DSH 3) which correspond approximately to levels B2 to C2 of the Common European Framework of Reference and are evaluated to be equivalent to the grading levels TDN 3 to TDN 5 of the TestDaF in admission procedures.
- DSH 1 = TDN 3 (circa B2 level)
- DSH 2 = TDN 4 (circa B2/C1 level)
- DSH 3 = TDN 5 (circa C1/C2 level)
The IfS Model for DSH
IfS regularly offers intensive courses for DSH examination preparation. The courses are aimed at those who need to complete a DSH test in order to begin their studies at a German university.
Constantly updated collections of texts and textbooks geared to the contents of the DSH examination form the basis for our intensive courses for DSH exam preparation. We also work intensively with sample texts and tasks from DSH examinations.
Our DSH course dates are coordinated with the DSH test dates of the University of Kassel. A prerequisite for participation in a preparation course at IfS is German competence at a B2 level.
> Current course dates and enrolment
Please contact us for further information about DSH as well as a free assessment of your German competence:
