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Germany as a country is very well known for its education system and the rich quality of education it provides to the students. Owing to the educational environment of the country, most of the students in the world are now opting to study in Germany. Students who are preparing for the exam, often have many questions in their mind. One such common query is about the general requirements like English proficiency exams such as TOEFL. Don’t worry! This blog will provide you with a solution to this query. In this blog, you will get to know if TOEFL is required to study in Germany.
This Blog Includes:
Is TOEFL Required for Germany?
The answer to this question is: GENERALLY NO. Most German universities do not specifically require the TOEFL. They are more concerned with you proving your English proficiency, which can be done through various means.
When might TOEFL be needed?
- Rare cases: Some universities or specific programs might accept or even prefer TOEFL. This is less common, though.
- Always check: It’s crucial to confirm the exact requirements of the university and program you’re interested in. Their website or admissions office will have the most accurate information.
| PRO TIP: Don’t just assume that TOEFL is your only option. Make sure you research individual university requirements thoroughly. |
Find out the list of German Universities Accepting TOEFL Score
English Proficiency Requirements for German Universities
To be eligible to apply to a German university, candidates must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
- Entrance exam results (if any)
- High school results
- Aptitude test
- Language proficiency tests
- Identity cards
- SOPs or LORs
- Resume
- Transcripts
Prospective TOEFL exam takers will find it reassuring to discover that the Education Testing Service (ETS), the organisation responsible for administering the TOEFL test, has not established specific eligibility guidelines for the TOEFL exam in 2024. Given that the ETS TOEFL is an assessment of English language proficiency, it is recommended that students verify the language proficiency requirements of the particular college or university to which they are applying.
All individuals whose native language is not English are required to take the TOEFL exam.
- Universities in major English-speaking countries such as the USA and Canada mandate that students demonstrate their language proficiency for admission to their educational institutions.
- In addition to students, professionals who are already working also need to take the TOEFL exam as it is a prerequisite for obtaining a student visa.
Also Read: Top Universities Accepting TOEFL Scores
TOEFL Requirements For Top German Universities
The requirements for TOEFL scores vary for universities and the course you wish to apply for. However, here is an overview of the TOEFL scores required to be eligible for a particular university:
| Name of German University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Minimum TOEFL Score |
| University of Hamburg | #191 | 70 or above |
| Free University of Berlin | #97 | 80 or above |
| Technical University of Munich | #28 | 88 or above |
| RWTH Aachen University | #99 | 90 or above |
| Technical University of Berlin | #147 | 95 or above |
| International University of Applied Sciences | NR | 80 or above |
| Berlin School of Business and Innovation | NR | 85 or above |
| University of Bonn | #=227 | 72 or above |
| University of Duisburg | #801-850 | 61 or above |
| University of Freiburg | #212 | 90 or above |
Also Read: TOEFL Sample Speaking Questions
How to Apply for the TOEFL Exam?
To submit their scores to any German university, you would have to first apply for the exam through these steps:
- Visit the official website and https://v2.ereg.ets.org/ereg/public/jump?_p=TEL
- Sign in with your email ID and password to register yourself with your correct details.
- After registration, log in with your credentials.
- Select the date you wish to give your exam according to your availability.
- In the next step, select the test centre and city for your exam.
- Review the application and submit it.
- To complete your registration, pay the registration fee of INR 16,900 through accepted payment methods.
- Apply successfully and take a printout of registration details.
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FAQs
Ans: Generally, no. Most German universities prioritize proof of English proficiency rather than a specific test like TOEFL. They often accept IELTS, Duolingo, or other forms of evidence.
Ans: For prospective students in Germany, essential entrance exams include IELTS/TOEFL to demonstrate English language proficiency, GRE/GMAT for specific academic programs, and Goethe-Zertifikat/DSH/TestDaf to assess proficiency in the German language.
Ans: TOEFL is acknowledged across numerous countries globally, with a majority of universities and colleges in these nations considering TOEFL scores. Notable countries where TOEFL is widely accepted include Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Ireland.
Ans: IELTS stands out as one of the extensively accepted tests for English proficiency. While many universities abroad show a preference for IELTS, other prestigious institutions also acknowledge TOEFL scores.
While TOEFL might be accepted, it’s not always required for the visa itself. Visa requirements vary, so check the official German embassy/consulate website in your country for the most up-to-date information. IELTS is often accepted for visa applications as well.
These are separate requirements. The university sets its own English language standards for admission to its programs. The German government sets the English language requirements for the student visa.
The only reliable way is to visit the official website of the specific program you’re interested in at that university. Look for their “international admissions,” “language requirements,” or similar sections. If unsure, contact their admissions office directly.
IELTS is very widely accepted. Duolingo English Test is also gaining popularity. Other options might exist, so check with the university.
This was all the information about is TOEFL required for Germany. Evaluate all study abroad options with Leverage Edu. Stay tuned with Leverage Live classes and get 30-minute free counselling by calling our toll-free number 1800 572 000 and realise your dream of studying in Germany.
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