The DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) is a certificate of German language proficiency issued by German universities.
It is reserved for applicants whose mother tongue is not German and who wish to study at a German university or higher education establishment.
The DSH is recognized by all German universities and is valid for life.
What is the test used for?
The DSH assesses the language skills needed in an academic environment, where the use of technical vocabulary is required in lectures and seminars.
The DSH has three levels: DSH 1, DSH 2, DSH 3. To study in Germany, universities require a DSH2 or DSH 3. DSH1 is usually sufficient to take a degree in foreign languages.
Note: The DSH is for candidates who were not able to take the TestDaf (German test) in their country of residence.
What does the test involve?
The DSH is divided into two modules:
- Written test:
- Listening: candidates listen to audio clips and answer questions
- Scientific language structures: candidates read a text and answer questions
- Production of a text: candidates write a reasoned presentation based on a document (diagram, graph)
- Oral test: candidates answer questions related to their field of study.
How long does the test take?
The DSH takes 3 hours and 40 minutes:
- Written test: 3 hr 20 min
- Oral test: 20 minutes
What levels can the DSH assess?
The DSH certifies the ability to use technical vocabulary in an academic environment. It is therefore recommended that candidates only take the DSH if they already have at least a B2 or C1 level on the CEFR scale.
Gymglish is a training organization that offers short, personalized, fun online language lessons. At the end of the training, students receive a personalized learning report with a set of statistics for their level. This report not only includes information on the student’s level in various areas, but also charts progress in terms of learning and revision, participation, training time, lessons covered, etc.
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What grading system does the DSH use?
The DSH operates on the basis of performance bands:
- A score of 57% to 66% corresponds to the DSH 1, which entitles the candidate to take a course in foreign languages
- A score of 67% to 81% corresponds to the DSH 2, which enables application to most German universities
- A score of more than 82% corresponds to the DSH 3, which enables application to any German university
How much does the test cost? Where can you take it?
The price of the DSH test varies depending on the chosen university and ranges from €40 to €150.
The DSH takes place at the establishments chosen by the candidate.
The DSH at a glance
| Publisher | German universities | Wunderbla (by Gymglish) |
| Name of diploma | DSH 1, DSH 2, DSH 3 | Wunderbla learning report |
| Validity period | No validity period | No validity period |
| Language skills tested | Reading, listening, writing, speaking | Reading, listening, writing |
| Target level(s) | B2 to C1 | All levels, except beginners (A2 to C2) |
| Price | Between € 40 and € 150 | From € 21 /month |
| Duration | 3 hr 40 min | Training for 6, 12, 24 or 36 months |
| Face-to-face / Remote | Face to face | Remote / online |
Wunderbla (by Gymglish) issues a learning report at the end of the course (minimum 6 months) which includes statistics on the student’s level, progress and participation. This document not only includes information on the student’s level in various areas at the end of the learning period, but also charts progress in terms of learning and revision, participation, training time, lessons covered, etc.
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