Recognised proofs of German language proficiency C1

 

A proof of German language proficiency at level A2 is needed when applying for admission to a degree programme instructed in German.

You can only attend a German course in the University Preparation Programme of the Vienna Universities if you already have a proof of German language proficiency at level A2.

For the admission to the degree programme you need a proof of German language proficiency at level C1.

Proofs C1

  • Secondary-school leaving certificate from a school where the language of instruction is German and all exams are held in German, e.g. Austrian or German schools abroad
  • Graduation from a degree programme of at least three years of study with German as language of instruction at a recognised post-secondary educational institution
  • Passing of the supplementary exam in German (Ergänzungsprüfung Deutsch) at a University Preparation Programme of an Austrian university

The above mentioned proofs are valid for an unlimited time.

Certificates C1

  • Österreichisches Sprachdiplom – ÖSD Zertifikat C1 (formerly called: C1 Oberstufe Deutsch)
  • Goethe Institut – Goethe Zertifikat C1
  • telc Deutsch „C1 Hochschule“
  • Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer StudienwerberInnen DSH2
  • Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz DSD II
  • Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test DaF), at least level 4 in all parts
  • Language Center of the University of Vienna – course and successfully passed exam of level C1/2
  • Österreichischer Integrationsfonds (ÖIF) - ÖIF Test (C1) or higher

These certificates must not be older than 3 years.

German course in the University Preparation Programme

If you upload a proof of German language proficiency of a lower level than C1 (but at least A2), you will have the possibility of participating in a German course of the University Preparation Programme of the Vienna Universities (VWU) or a cooperation partner. As long as you attend the preparation programme, you will not be admitted to a specific degree programme but to a non-degree programme for the purpose of "participating in the preparation programme".

  • With a non-EU/EEA school leaving certificate, your admission letter for a bachelor/diploma programme will require you to pass the supplementary exam in German.
  • With an EU/EEA/CH school leaving ceritificate having applied for admission to a bachelor/diploma programme in u:space, you will receive an admission letter for the VWU course registration via e-mail after your online appointment. 
  • As an EU/EEA citizen or non-EU/EEA citizen having applied for a master programme instructed in German, your admission letter will require you to pass the supplementary exam in German.

 Important note for students in the VWU

Once you have been admitted to the University Preparation Programme of the Vienna Universities as a non-degree student, only the supplementary exam in German (Ergänzungsprüfung Deutsch, EPD)  is accepted as a proof of German language proficiency! It is not possible to leave the preparation programme and take a German language exam elsewhere. Disregard may lead to severe consequences such as the loss of your residence permit.

Persons who have quit the VWU and have passed a different German language exam in the meanwhile can still take the supplementary exam in German (EPD).

Detailed information on the new regulation

Information about the University Preparation Programme of the Vienna Universities (VWU)

 FAQ

/

  • Can I present another German certificate, altough I participate in the preparation programme?

    No. As soon as you are admitted in the VWU as a non-degree student, you can only present the supplementary examination German (EPD) as proof of proficiency in German.

    If you present another proof of knowledge of German, you may face problems regarding your visa.

    Detailed information

  • Do I have to participate in the German course of the VWU?

    You can acquire the necessary level of German knowledge privately beforehand and then be admitted afterwards to University of Vienna.

    If you want to do a German course in Austria, but not at the VWU, make sure to know the consequences for your residence permit (directly at the embassy, consulate or MA 35)

    The admission to the University of Vienna as a non-degree student during the German course is not possible without a confirmation of registration from the VWU or a partner institute.

  • My certificate/proof of knowledge of German is not on the list. Will it be accepted?

    Unfortunately not, only the certificates or proofs of knowledge of German listed above can be accepted by the University of Vienna.

  • German is my first language, but I do not have any proof of German language proficiency. What can I do?

    If, in your opinion, your German writing, speaking and listening skills correspond to at least level C1, upload a solemn declaration (signed exposition of the facts) in which you confirm that German is your first language in the field of "Certificate of proficiency in German at level C1". 
    Please note that you will not be able to participate in any German course of the University Preparation Programme of the Vienna Universities after having completed the personal admission to a degree programme.

    The Admission Office reserves the right to request an adequate proof of German proficiency in cases of doubt.