Language Requirements: German

OVGU Framework of Reference for Language skills from Winter Semester 2026/27 (Language levels or certificates not listed in the document can still be regulated independently by the faculties.)

Most of the courses at Otto von Guericke University are taught in German. In order to get an admission to these courses, foreign applicants have to show a proof of their German skills. Please refer to thecourse descriptions for any differing language requirements.

The following tests and certificates are recognized:

„DSH-2“ (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer Studienbewerber, level DSH-2). Selected courses require DSH-3;
„TestDaF 4“ (all four parts at least level 4). Selected courses require test level 5;
„DSD II“ (Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz- Stufe II), (excluding medicine);
„Examination part German“ as part of the Assesment test of Preparatory College (Feststellungsprüfung des Studienkollegs);
„Goethe-Certificate C2: GDS“ (Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom) from 01.01.2012 on, (excluding medicine);
The Goethe Institute's examination "Central Higher Level Test" (ZOP: Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung), the "Basic German Language Diploma" (KDS: Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom and the "Advanced German Language Diploma" (GDS: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom) no older than 31.12.2011;
„telc C1 Hochschule“ (rated good or very good), (excluding medicine);
„ÖSD C2“ (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch C2), (excluding medicine);
„UNIcert IV“ (excluding medicine);
„OVGU SPRZ C1“ Zertifikat besser Ø 3,3, (excluding medicine).

DSH exam at the OVGU

If you submitted a C1 certificate with your application, you are going to be invited to take the DSH exam. After passing the DSH exam with DSH-2, you are allowed to start your regular degree programme. The DSH exam takes place before the start of each semester in March (for the summer semester) and September (for the winter semester).

The DSH lasts 2 days (1 day written exam, 1 day oral exam). The examination fee is 80 EUR. Participation in the examination is a prerequisite for admission to study at Otto von Guericke University. Information about exam dates and the current offer of German courses can be found on the website of the Language Centre.

The university itself does not offer any language courses in preparation for your studies.