FAQs: Exams for MS Courses from Germany

Students planning to study from Germany are often confused about the exams they need to write. Some of the common questions include: What exams do I have to write? Is GATE accepted by Universities in Germany? Do I have to write both GRE and IELTS? Is proficiency in the German Language important? If either of these questions bothered you…read on.

Germany is a popular choice for international students who want to pursue a Master of Science (MS) degree. The country is known for its high-quality education, innovative research, and strong connections to various industries. Many programs are offered in English, making it easier for students from around the world to study there.

With its high-quality education, low or no tuition fees, and strong industry connections, many students choose Germany for their postgraduate studies. However, the admission process can be confusing, especially when it comes to understanding the exams you need to take. Students often need to pass language tests like IELTS or TOEFL, as well as aptitude tests such as GRE or GMAT, depending on the program they choose. This article will answer common questions about the exams required for MS courses in Germany.

What Exams Do I Need to Write for MS Courses in Germany?

Students would need to write a language exam and one aptitude exam. It is important to note that the aptitude exams are not mandatory but are highly recommended and we at Shiksha strongly recommend students to ensure that they have written their GREs before they start their applications to MS Colleges in Germany.

To apply for MS programs in Germany, students typically need to take two types of exams:

1. Language Proficiency Exam: If you plan to study in English, you will need to take an English language test. The most commonly accepted tests are:
   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): This is the preferred exam for many universities, and a score between 6.5 and 7.5 is usually required.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Some universities accept TOEFL scores, which should be between 80 and 100.
   If your course is taught in German, you will need to prove your proficiency in the German language through tests like:
   • TestDAF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
   • DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
2. Aptitude Exam: While not all universities require an aptitude test, it is highly recommended. The most common exams include:
   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Many top universities require GRE scores for MS programs, especially in fields like engineering and computer science.
   • GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): This exam may be required for management-related programs.

Do I have to write both GRE and IELTS exams for MS applications to Germany?

Yes. Both are completely different tests and required for two very different purposes. This is applicable across countries for MS applications. Students need to understand that GRE is an aptitude test, used by universities abroad to check your academic readiness. A higher score is a validation of an excellent academic score and gets preference.

IELTS score, however, is required by the Universities and the Visa Authorities to check your ability to understand instructions in English as well as your ability to communicate in the language. There are two types of IELTS exams – Academic and General. While visas accept general, students planning to go to Germany (or any other country for that matter), must take the Academic Test which would be acceptable across. The student would not require an English Language Test like IELTS only if he opting for a course taught in the German Language. In that case, the student would have to appear for and clear either DSH or TestDAF. Students planning to write TOEFL might want to confirm if the same is accepted by the universities in Germany.

Is GATE accepted by Universities in Germany?

Some of the Universities in-fact would mandatorily require a GATE score for some elective courses. However, as a general rule, GATE is not asked nor mandatory. GRE would be preferred over GATE by many universities. Students are best advised to check the course specific requirements of the Universities they are applying to.

Is proficiency in German Language important?

If you are applying for a course taught in the German language then yes, you need a strong proficiency level in the German Language. However, in case you are applying for a course taught in the English Language, you do not need this for your applications. At the same time, a basic understanding of German Language, though not compulsory, is always advised. Needless to say, a basic understanding of the primary language would help you both acclimatize, make friends and find good part-time jobs in Germany.

Are GRE Subject Tests Required for admission to MS Colleges in Germany?

No. Universities often do not require a GRE Subject Test. However, basis the course you have applied for, a University may request the same after you have submitted your application.

How important are GRE Scores for admission to German Universities?

German Universities do not give a lot of emphasis on the GRE score. At the onset, the first consideration is your graduation score. The better the university and the better the academic grade in your graduation, the better the chances of finding admission to a good German University. However, this does not mean that GRE is not considered. A GRE below 300 could mean trouble and might affect your admission chances. If the University specifically asks for GRE score, then the importance of a good score is all the more important. Students need to focus more on their college percentage as well as the projects they work on if they aspire to Study in Germany.

What is the average GRE Score required by the TU9 Universities in Germany?

TU9 are centres of excellence and the average GRE score is 320. Remember, a high GRE score is not necessarily the only condition. TU9 would give a lot of consideration to your college percentage. So if you dream of TU9, then you need to work from the first year of your college. A good college (like the NITs and IITs further increase your chances of getting into TU9).

Is a 7.5 CGPA Good for MS in Germany?

For Indian students, a CGPA of 7.5 is generally considered good and meets the minimum requirement for many German universities. However, some top universities may have higher expectations, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of each institution.

Do I Need to Know German?

While many MS programs in Germany are offered in English, knowing some German can be beneficial. If your course involves practical training or internships in companies where German is the primary language, having proficiency can enhance your experience and job prospects.