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Language requirements

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Language Requirements for Course Programs in German

Applicants with a non-German school leaving certificate (Abitur or equivalent) need to document their level of German (for course programs in German only). German language skills should be equivalent C1 of the common European Framework of References for Languages (GeR).

You can study at the Viadrina with the following certificates:

1. German Language Exam (DSH)

The German Language Exam for admission to higher education (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang - DSH) allows you access to German Higher Education. All German institutions of higher education will recognize this exam as long as you have passed it with Level 2.The DSH exam is offered by the Viadrina as well as other German Universities.The exam evaluates language capabilities for studying in Germany. This means in detail:

  • listening comprehension of lectures, the ability to put down written notes and academically process them.
  • comprehension of written text and the ability to deal with it.
  • to produce written texts and verbally express opinions on a given academic topic.

The language centre of the European University offers a preparation course for this exam. More information on the DSH exam (for example the test date) are included in the admission documents. For further detailed information please contact the language centre.

2. The DSH exam can be substituted by the following tests or equivalents:

  • by the so- called Test DAF, this exam can  be done with  Test DAF institutes all over the world.
  • In order to study at the Viadrina you need to have at least Level 4 in all parts of the test (TDN 4)
  • by a German school leaving certificate (from a German speaking school in Austria or Switzerland)
  • by the German Language Diploma by the “Kultusministerkonferenz”  (DSD II, Niveau C1 of the GeR)
  • by exams of the German Institute (Goethe Institut):
    • Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung (ZOP)
    • Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom (KDS)
    • Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS)
  • by a degree from a German speaking University or if you hold a DSH  of a German university preparatory college (Studienkolleg)  or an equivalent exam

Language Requirements for Course Programs in English

For the BA program International Business Administration sufficient English language skills are required. More information and ways how those skills can be proven can be found directly on the website of the program.