TestAS Exam - Fees, Exam Dates, Syllabus, & Preparation

The full form of the TestAS exam is the Test for Academic Studies. This standardized aptitude test is conducted for international students who want to pursue undergraduate studies at German universities. The TestAS exam is available in two formats: paper-based and digital.

TestAS, or the Test for Academic Studies, is an important exam for international students who want to study in Germany. This aptitude test helps assess whether students have the necessary skills and abilities for success in German universities. A good score on TestAS can improve a student's chances of getting admission in their desired courses at German universities.

TestAS is an examination that measures both general and subject-specific aptitude. It is recognized by many universities in Germany as a fair and objective tool for selecting students. The TestAS exam is available in two formats: digital and paper-based. International applicants planning to study at a German university take this exam. It is particularly useful for those whose qualifications may not be easily comparable to German standards.

TestAS is offered multiple times throughout the year at various licensed test centers around the world. Students should check with their chosen test center for specific dates. TestAS exam centres are only available in China, Vietnam and India. One can check the important information regarding TestAS exam registration, fees, exam dates, syllabus, and preparation tips for the TestAS exam.

TestAS Exam Overview 

Particulars	Details
What is TestAS?	TestAS is an aptitude test for international applicants planning to study in Germany. It assesses whether students' abilities and skills are suitable for academic study and helps improve admission prospects.
Who is it for?	For international students for undergraduate degree programs in Germany, but open to all age groups.
When can it be taken?	TestAS can be taken during the final year of secondary school; earlier attempts are not advised.
Test Formats	Available in two formats: digital and paper-based. Both formats measure the same skills and have comparable results.
Duration of Exam	Digital TestAS: Approximately 3.5 hours (including breaks) Paper-Based TestAS: Approximately 4.5 hours (including breaks)
Core Module/Core Test	Measures general cognitive abilities relevant to academic studies, including logical thinking, analytical skills, and working memory.
Core Module Structure	Figural Sequences: 25 minutes Mathematical Equations: 25 minutes Latin Squares: 25 minutes Each subtest contains 20 items, totaling 90 minutes.
Subject Modules	Assess skills important for specific fields of study; candidates can choose from four or six modules depending on the test format (e.g., Humanities, Engineering, Economics, Medicine).
Subject Module Structure	Involves working on 10 to 15 testlets with 4 to 8 questions each over a period of about 90 minutes.
Languages Offered	The exam can be taken in either German or English, depending on the candidate's preference.
Note-Taking Policy	Paper-Based TestAS: Candidates may take notes on provided concept paper. Digital TestAS: Note-taking is not allowed.
Preparation Materials	Sample questions and answers for all subtests are available online, along with tutorials to familiarize candidates with the exam format and software.

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Popular Job Sectors in Germany	Job Opportunities in Germany

TestAS Exam Eligibility Criteria

The TestAS exam is primarily designed for international applicants who wish to pursue degree programs in Germany. There is no particular eligibility criteria for the TestAS exam. Candidates can check the details on TestAS requirements & eligibility criteria from below.

• Educational Background: Candidates can take the TestAS during their final year of secondary school. This timing is ideal as students are expected to have acquired the necessary foundational knowledge and skills required for higher education.
• Age Limit: There is no age requirement for taking the TestAS. Whether you are a high school student or an adult looking to study in Germany, you can register for the exam.
• Recommended Timing: It is not advisable for students to take the TestAS earlier than their final year of secondary school. Taking the test too early may not accurately reflect their academic readiness and skills.

If you’re preparing for the TestAS exam, it’s essential to understand the admission requirements for public universities in Germany. Check out our List of Public Universities in Germany to explore the institutions accepting TestAS scores and offering world-class education.

TestAS Exam Registration Process

The registration process for the TestAS exam is simple and can be completed online. Here’s a detailed stepwise guide for the TestAS Exam registration process. To register for the TestAS exam, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Test Center: Find a licensed TestAS test center near you. The test is available at various locations worldwide.
2. Create an Account: Visit the official TestAS website to create a personal account.
3. Select Your Exam Date: Choose an available date for your exam from the list provided by the test center.
4. Complete Registration: Fill out the registration form with your personal details and select the language of the test (German or English).
5. Confirm Registration: After submitting your registration, you will receive a confirmation email with details about your exam.

An APS Certificate is often a requirement alongside TestAS scores for studying in Germany. Learn more about its importance and application process in our detailed article on What is APS Certificate?.

TestAS Exam Fees 2025 

The fee structure for the TestAS exam is as follows:

• Registration Fee: The cost to take the TestAS in India is approximately 150 EUR (or equivalent 13,500 INR, approximately).
• Payment Method: Payment can usually be made online during the registration process or directly at the test center.

Preparing for the TestAS exam is an important step in your journey to study in Germany. Learn how you can leverage scholarships, public universities, and strategic planning to study in Germany for free in our 7 Steps to Study in Germany for Free article. Taking the TestAS exam is just one aspect of studying in Germany. Understanding the costs involved is equally important. Get detailed insights in our Cost of Studying in Germany guide.

TestAS Exam Dates 2025

TestAS exams are conducted multiple times throughout the year. The exam TestAS exam 2025 dates may vary by location, so it's essential to check with your chosen test center for available dates. Generally, exams are offered in both spring and autumn sessions.

TestAS Exam Dates: Application Deadline 

Exam Date	Application Deadline	Format
March 19, 2025	November 2, 2024 - March 7, 2025	Digital TestAS
April 26, 2025	January 6, 2025 - March 14, 2025	Paper-based TestAS
June 17, 2025	January 6, 2025 - June 4, 2025	Digital TestAS
October 25, 2025	January 6, 2025 - September 15, 2025	Paper-based TestAS
November 20, 2025	January 6, 2025 - November 10, 2025	Digital TestAS

TestAS Exam Pattern 2025 

The TestAS exam evaluates both general cognitive abilities and subject-specific skills necessary for academic success. Below is a detailed overview of the TestAS exam pattern, including its components, structure, and types of questions.

The TestAS can be taken in either English or German. The exam consists of two main parts, Core Module/Core Test and Subject Modules. The Core Module/Core Test of TestAS exam measures general cognitive abilities necessary for academic study. On the other hand, the TestAS Subject Modules, tests skills that are important for successful study in specific fields.

TestAS Exam Core Module/Core Test

The Core Module assesses general cognitive skills through various tasks. It includes the following subtests:

1. Figural Sequences:
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Content: Candidates analyze a series of images to identify patterns based on changes in position, color, or alignment.
2. Mathematical Equations:
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Content: Participants solve systems of equations that meet specific constraints, identifying values for unknowns.
3. Latin Squares:
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Content: Candidates fill in grids according to rules that restrict the placement of letters in rows and columns.

Each subtest contains 20 items, totaling approximately 90 minutes for the Core Module.

TestAS Exam Subject Modules

The Subject Modules assess skills relevant to specific fields of study. Candidates can choose from four or six Subject Modules depending on the test format:

1. Available Subject Modules:
• Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Social Sciences (available in both formats)
• Engineering (available in both formats)
• Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences (available in both formats)
• Economics (available in both formats)
• Medicine (only available in digital TestAS)
• Life Sciences (only available in digital TestAS)
2. Structure of Subject Modules:
• In the Subject Module, candidates work on 10 to 15 testlets, each containing 4 to 8 questions over a period of about 90 minutes.
• Questions may involve interpreting texts, graphics, or tables relevant to the chosen subject area.

Duration of the TestAS Exam

• Digital TestAS: Approximately 3.5 hours (including breaks).
• Paper-Based TestAS: Approximately 4.5 hours (including breaks).

Note-Taking Policy of the TestAS Exam

• In the paper-based version of TestAS Exam, candidates can take written notes on provided concept paper during the exam.
• In the digital version of TestAS Exam, note-taking is not permitted as tasks are designed without this feature.

Apart from exam preparation, budgeting for living expenses is crucial. Read our detailed Cost of Living in Germany guide to plan better for your study journey.

Differences Between Paper-Based and Digital TestAS

The TestAS (Test for Academic Studies) is available in two formats: paper-based and digital. While both versions aim to assess the same cognitive abilities and skills, there are several key differences between them. Below is a comparison of the two formats.

Particulars	Paper-Based TestAS	Digital TestAS
How is it conducted?	Conducted using pen and paper at test centers.	Conducted on computers at licensed test centers.
Duration	Approximately 4.5 hours, including a 30-minute break.	Approximately 3.5 hours, including breaks.
Note-Taking	Candidates can take notes on the provided concept paper.	Note-taking is not allowed during the exam.
Subject Modules Available	Four options: Humanities, Engineering, Mathematics, Economics.	Six options: Humanities, Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, Medicine, Life Sciences.
Question Format	Questions are printed on paper; answers marked on an answer sheet.	Answers selected by clicking on the screen.
Task Types	Includes traditional question formats (e.g., multiple choice).	Designed specifically for computer interaction; may include different task types.
Recognition by Universities	Some universities may have preferences for one format over the other.	Similar recognition; check with specific universities for their requirements.

Structure of the digital TestAS

The digital TestAS is an important exam for international students who want to study in Germany. It is conducted on computers at licensed TestAS test centers and is available in both German and English. Here’s a detailed digital TestAS  exam structure, including its components and what to expect.

Key Features of the Digital TestAS

Feature	Details
Language Options	The test can be taken in English or German. Check university requirements for specific language needs.
Test Format	Conducted on computers at licensed test centers.
Total Duration	Approximately 3.5 hours, including breaks.

Components of the digital TestAS

The TestAS consists of two main parts:

1. Core Module/Core Test
2. Subject Modules

Core Module/Core digital TestAS

The Core Module measures general cognitive abilities that are important for academic success. It includes three subtests:

Subtest	Duration	Description
Figural Sequences	25 minutes	Identify patterns in a series of images where figures change position, color, or alignment.
Mathematical Equations	25 minutes	Solve systems of equations with constraints to find values for unknowns (letters).
Latin Squares	25 minutes	Complete grids where each letter (A, B, C, D, E) appears only once per row and column.

Each subtest contains 20 items, totaling around 90 minutes for the Core Module.

Subject Modules of the digital TestAS

In the Subject Modules, candidates work on 10 to 15 testlets, each containing 4 to 8 questions over a period of about 90 minutes. These modules assess skills relevant to specific fields of study.

Subject Module	Availability
Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Social Sciences	Paper-based and digital
Engineering	Paper-based and digital
Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences	Paper-based and digital
Economics	Paper-based and digital
Medicine	Digital only
Life Sciences	Digital only

Content of the Examination Parts

• Core Module: Focuses on logical thinking, analytical skills, working memory, numerical operations, and visual pattern analysis.
• Subject Modules: Involve interpreting texts, graphics, and tables related to specific subjects. Candidates must demonstrate understanding and application of concepts.

Structure of the Paper-Based TestAS

The paper-based TestAS assesses cognitive abilities necessary for academic success and is conducted in licensed test centers. Here’s a detailed overview of the structure of the paper-based TestAS.

Key Features Paper-Based TestAS

• Language Options: The exam can be taken in either German or English. Candidates can choose the language they feel most comfortable with. Some universities may require the exam to be taken in a specific language, so it's essential to check university requirements beforehand.
• Total Duration: The paper-based TestAS takes approximately 4.5 hours, including a 30-minute break.

Components of the Test

The paper-based TestAS consists of two main parts:

1. Core Test
2. Subject Module

Core Test of Paper-Based TestAS

The Core Test measures basic cognitive abilities that are essential for successful academic study. It includes four groups of tasks completed over 110 minutes:

Task Group	Duration	Description
Solving Quantitative Problems	35 minutes	Tests numerical thinking and problem-solving using elementary arithmetic operations through practical text tasks.
Inferring Relations	10 minutes	Involves identifying matching words from pairs to establish analogous relationships, testing logical and analytical thinking.
Completing Patterns	25 minutes	Measures the ability to recognize and complete visual patterns by identifying shapes and their relationships.
Continuing Numerical Series	30 minutes	Tests the ability to recognize numerical patterns and predict the next elements in a sequence using basic arithmetic operations.

Subject Module of Paper-Based TestAS

In the Subject Module, candidates work on two or three groups of tasks, depending on their chosen module, over approximately 150 minutes. This part of the exam tests cognitive abilities that are particularly important for success in selected fields of study.

Candidates can choose from four subject-specific modules:

Subject Module	Description
Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Social Sciences	Tests comprehension and application of concepts relevant to these fields.
Engineering	Assesses skills necessary for engineering studies, including problem-solving and technical reasoning.
Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences	Evaluates mathematical reasoning and scientific understanding through practical problems.
Economics	Measures understanding of economic concepts and analytical skills related to economic data.

Content of Paper-based TestAS Exam

• Core Test: Focuses on general cognitive skills such as logical reasoning, numerical problem-solving, and visual pattern recognition.
• Subject Modules: Involve tasks that require understanding specific subject matter relevant to the candidate's intended field of study.

TestAS Exam Syllabus 2025 

The TestAS exam consists of two main components:

1. Core Module:
• Figural Sequences: Identify patterns in a series of images.
• Mathematical Equations: Solve systems of equations based on given constraints.
• Latin Squares: Fill in grids according to specific rules.
2. Each subtest lasts 25 minutes and contains 20 items, totaling approximately 90 minutes including instructions.
3. Subject Module:
• This module includes specific subjects relevant to your intended field of study (e.g., Humanities, Engineering, Natural Sciences).
• You will work on 10 to 15 testlets with 4 to 8 questions each over a period of 90 minutes.

TestAS Exam Result 2025 

The TestAS (Test for Academic Studies) is an important exam for international students who want to study in Germany. If you are taking the exam in 2025, here’s what you need to know about accessing and using your results.

How to Access Your TestAS Results?

 

• When Will  TestAS Exam Results Be Available?

 

• Digital TestAS: You can see your results about three weeks after the exam.
• Paper-Based TestAS: Your results will be ready about four weeks after the exam.

How to Check Your TestAS Exam Results?

• Log in to the TestAS test taker portal using your username and password.
• You will not receive a separate notification when your results are ready, so check the portal regularly.

Types of TestAS Scores

The results of the TestAS are presented in two main formats:

1. TestAS Score:
• Digital TestAS: Scores range from 0 to 200.
• Paper-Based TestAS: Standard scores range from 70 to 130.
• Higher scores indicate better performance, with scores above 150 demonstrating above-average abilities.
2. Percentile Rank:
• Scores are also provided as a percentile rank, which indicates how a candidate performed relative to other test-takers. This rank ranges from 1 to 100, where a higher percentile indicates better performance compared to peers.

TestAS Exam Result Dates 2025

Exam Date	Result	Format
February 18, 2025	March 18, 2025	Paper-based TestAS
March 19, 2025	April 9, 2025	Digital TestAS
April 26, 2025	May 24, 2025	Paper-based TestAS
June 17, 2025	July 8, 2025	Digital TestAS
October 25, 2025	November 22, 2025	Paper-based TestAS
November 20, 2025	December 11, 2025	Digital TestAS

You can use your TestAS certificate electronically or print it out as a hard copy. The sample TestAS Exam result certificates are available on the TestAS website. The TestAS certificate does not expire, so you can use it whenever you need it for university applications.