Language Requirements for studying at OVGU
German Language Proficiency
Most programs at Otto von Guericke University (OVGU) are taught in German, and a minimum C1 level of proficiency is typically required. Accepted German language certificates include:
- DSH-2 (German Language Examination for University Entrance for Foreign Applicants); some programs may require DSH-3
- TestDaF with at least TDN 4 in all sections (some programs require TDN 5)
- DSD II (German Language Diploma, Level II, of the Standing Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs)
- German test within the Feststellungsprüfung at Studienkollegs
- Goethe Certificate C2 (GDS) since January 1, 2012
- ZOP, KDS, or GDS (Goethe Institute's Central Advanced Level Examination) prior to December 31, 2011
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
For program-specific language requirements, refer to the program descriptions.
DSH Examination at OVGU
Applicants who provide proof of a C1-level certificate may be invited to the DSH examination at OVGU. Passing the exam at DSH-2 level is required to start regular studies. The exam occurs before each semester: March (summer semester) and September (winter semester).
The two-day DSH exam includes a written test (Day 1) and an oral test (Day 2). The examination fee is €80. Participation in the DSH exam is mandatory for admission to OVGU.
Information about exam dates and the current German course offerings can be found on the pages of the Language Center at OVGU.
Note: OVGU does not offer preparatory German language courses.
Englishkenntnisse
For English-taught programs, applicants must provide proof of proficiency.
Accepted certificates include:
- TOEFL (minimum scores vary by program)
- Cambridge Proficiency (CPE)
- International English Languages Test System (IELTS)
- Advanced Placement International English Languages (APIEL)
- CAE (Certificate of Advanced English)
- PTE Academic
Applicants can upload TOEFL or IELTS certificates to uni-assist e.V. . uni-assist is a IELTS-Recognising Institution and your IELTS certificate can be verified online. Please send the Official TOEFL Score Report directly to uni-assist e.V. for verification. Use the uni-assist TOEFL Code: 2727 to ensure your results are properly processed and validated.
Exemptions from English Proficiency Proof
Applicants with the following qualifications do not need to submit language certificates:
Secondary school diplomas from:
- Australia
- Canada (except Quebec and New Brunswick)
- USA (High School Diploma)
as well as:
- British and international GCE A-Level Certificates
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement
- Scottish Qualifications Certificate
Higher education degrees completed in:
- Australia
- Canada (excluding Quebec and New Brunswick)
- Great Britain
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- USA
All other applicants must submit official language proficiency certificates as part of their application.
Program-Specific Language Requirements
The language of instruction and language requirements depend on the chosen degree program. For specific information on the language prerequisites, please refer to the website of your desired program (see table) and consult the program-specific study and examination regulations.