If proving competency in German language is a requirement, you can take various examinations to obtain a recognized certificate.

The following institutions offer exam preparation courses:

ABOUT THE CERTIFICATES:

German Language Diploma (GDS)    Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom
The Grosses Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS) certifies an excellent command of German, akin to that of a native speaker. The GDS is awarded by the Goethe Institut, and it is possible to take the exam in a Goethe centre or in other authorised centres.  All the examinations are held in May and November.

Austrian German Language Diploma (OSD)    Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch
The Austrian German Diploma (OSD) takes into consideration the national varieties of the German language and certifies the knowledge of the German language to handle the most important everyday situations, written and oral, and according to the level passed. The central office is situated in Vienna and follows the guidelines of the "Prüfungskuratorium", a group of representatives of the major teaching institutions in Austria. It manages the entire organisation of the OSD.  To take the examination, the OSD Kuratorium has authorised some institutes and language schools which meet the required conditions.

German Language Diploma (KDS)  Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom
The Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom (KDS) certifies a strong command of the standard German spoken nationwide (for example: to understand demanding and authentic texts and to have some speaking and writing abilities). This exam has the same level of proficiency as the Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung (Central Advanced Exam, ZOP) and also certifies a basic knowledge of regional and cultural aspects of Germany. All the examinations are held in May and November

TestDaf   Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache
Foreign students who want to study at a German university have to prove "sufficient knowledge of German" before entering the university. The "German as a foreign language" test (TestDaF) is officially accepted by all German universities to fulfill this requirement. Students who receive TDN 5 (best grade) in all of the four test categories (reading and listening comprehension, oral and written expression), are exempt from taking the DSH university entry exam and fulfill the language requirements for admission at any German university.

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