Is IELTS Required for Germany? Everything You Need to Know

Latest Facts and News

• As of 2024, many German universities are offering more English-taught programs, increasing the importance of English proficiency tests.
• The German government has recently updated its skilled immigration laws, potentially affecting language requirements for work permits.
• Some German universities are now accepting alternative English proficiency tests alongside IELTS.

Planning to study or work in Germany? Great! Germany is a popular choice for students and professionals looking to build their future. However, many factors, like academic qualifications and financial proof, can affect your chances of studying or working in Germany.

Since German is the official language, many wonder if they need to prove their English skills to study or work there. This raises a common concern: Is IELTS required for Germany?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While IELTS is a widely recognized English proficiency test, Germany’s requirements can vary depending on the institution, program, or employer. Some may ask for it, while others accept alternatives.

Let’s break it down step by step.

Understanding IELTS Requirements for German Universities

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standardized test that assesses English proficiency for study, work, and migration.

A lot of universities ask for IELTS scores if you want to get into English-taught programs in German universities. However, the required score varies depending on the institution and program. To understand the specific expectations, let’s look at the general admission German university language requirements.

General Admission Requirements

German universities usually accept IELTS scores between 5.5 and 6.5. For instance, the University of Munich requires at least a 6.0 for undergraduate programs, whereas the University of Berlin allows scores as low as 5.5 for postgraduate courses. 

Important Point: No part of the test should be below 5.5.

Universities in Germany That Accept IELTS

Each German university sets its own minimum IELTS score based on the program. While IELTS is widely accepted, requirements can vary.

Now, let’s take a look at universities that accept different IELTS band scores from the table below.

Is IELTS Required for Germany Student Visa?

Germany has a total of 2.8 million students, and among them, there are 469,485 international students for the 2023-2024 school year, based on the latest report from Wissenschaft Weltoffen.

To obtain a German student visa in 2025, applicants must provide German visa language requirements like proof of language proficiency in the language of instruction. 

While IELTS is one of the most commonly accepted English proficiency tests, it is not a mandatory requirement set by the German Embassy or Consulate. Instead, the visa process focuses on whether your university’s admission requirements include an English proficiency test.

If your university requires IELTS, you can submit the same score for your visa application. However, if your university has confirmed your English proficiency through other means, such as an admission letter, that may also be sufficient for visa approval

Now, if you do not have an IELTS score, there are other ways to meet the language proficiency requirement for the German student visa. Let’s check the alternatives.

Alternatives to IELTS for German Student Visa

If you do not have an IELTS score, you can submit other recognized English proficiency tests or certifications. Some widely accepted IELTS alternatives in Germany include:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Accepted by most German universities. A minimum score of 79-100 is typically required.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): Recognized by many institutions, with score requirements usually between 59-75.
• Duolingo English Test: Some German universities accept Duolingo, which is a more affordable and convenient online test. A score of 95-120 is generally required.
• Cambridge English Exams (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency): Accepted by various universities as proof of English proficiency.
• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: If your previous education was in English, some universities may accept an MOI certificate instead of a test.
• University-Specific Language Tests: Certain universities conduct their own English proficiency tests for Germany or offer preparatory language courses.

Since each university has its own policies, always check with your university and German visa language requirements to ensure you meet the criteria before applying for a visa.

Read More → Unlocking Part-Time Job Opportunities for Students in Germany

IELTS Requirements for Working in Germany

If you’re planning to work in Germany, you may be wondering whether IELTS is required. The answer depends on the type of visa you’re applying for—whether it’s a Job Seeker Visa (for those looking for a job) or a Work Permit (for those who have already secured employment). Let’s break down the requirements for both.

Is IELTS Required for Germany Job Seeker Visa?

The Germany Job Seeker Visa allows skilled professionals to stay in Germany for up to six months while searching for a job. For this visa:

• IELTS is not an official requirement by the German authorities. The focus is on work experience, qualifications, and financial proof, not language test scores.
• German proficiency (A2-B1 level) is recommended to improve job prospects since most employers prefer candidates who can speak German.
• If you’re targeting English-speaking jobs (e.g., in IT, engineering, or finance), having an IELTS or TOEFL score may help, but it is not a visa requirement.

While IELTS is not required to apply for the Job Seeker Visa, your ability to secure a job will depend on employers’ language expectations.

Is IELTS Required for Germany Work Permit?

The Germany Work Permit is granted only when you have a confirmed job offer from a German employer. The language requirement varies based on the job role and employer preferences:

IELTS is generally NOT required for a work permit.

• If your job requires German, you may need to prove German proficiency through Goethe-Zertifikat, TestDaF, or telc Deutsch.
• Some multinational companies may require an IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English certificate for English-speaking jobs, but this depends entirely on the employer.
• Certain regulated professions (e.g., healthcare, law) may require German certification for licensing purposes.

Neither the Job Seeker Visa nor the Work Permit officially require IELTS. However, since language proficiency plays a key role in securing a job, it’s important to check whether your employer and job require it.

Germany Student Visa Success Rate

The German work visa approval rate is generally high, ranging between 90% and 95% for applicants who meet all requirements. The key to approval lies in accurate documentation, financial proof, and a valid job contract.

To improve your chances of approval, ensure that:

• You submit a complete application with accurate information.
• Your job contract meets visa requirements.
• You provide proof of financial stability, such as a blocked account with the required amount (€11,208 per year as of 2024).
• You are prepared for interview questions about your job role and intent to work in Germany

The time it takes to process your application can vary, but it usually takes about 6 to 12 weeks. Proper preparation and guidance from a visa consultant like Visa Axis can increase your chances of approval.

Language Requirements for Different Types of Work Permits

Germany has different language needs based on the kind of work permit you have and the industry you’re in. Some jobs need you to speak German well, while others will accept you speaking English, especially if you work for a multinational company.

Here’s a comparison table for different work permits:

Read More → Unlock Your Career Potential with the Germany Job Opportunity Card.

Studying in Germany Without IELTS

As discussed earlier, there are IELTS alternatives provided by German universities allowing students to enroll without an IELTS score.

Tests such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test are increasingly recognized by German institutions. Even certain universities conduct their own language assessments or interviews to determine an applicant’s English proficiency.

Universities Offering Programs Without IELTS

Many German universities offer English-taught programs without requiring IELTS. Below are some institutions that accept alternative proof of English proficiency:

Also Read -> Navigating the Job Market in Germany: What You Need to Know

Tips for Meeting English Proficiency Requirements in Germany

To successfully meet the English language requirements for German universities and work permits, consider the following strategies:

1. Understand the Specific Requirements: Each university or employer may have different standards for English proficiency. Review their official communications to know the exact expectations.
2. Choose the Right Test: While IELTS is widely accepted, tests like TOEFL or PTE Academic may also be recognized. Select the test that aligns with your strengths and the institution’s preferences.
3. Prepare Thoroughly: Enroll in preparatory courses, utilize official study materials, and take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your performance.
4. Consider Language Courses in Germany: Some institutions offer preparatory language courses. Completing these may exempt you from standardized tests and enhance your language skills.
5. Document Previous English Education: If you’ve completed prior education in English, obtain official certificates or letters from your institutions to support exemption requests.
6. Stay Updated on Visa Requirements: Language proficiency criteria for visas can change. Regularly consult the official German consulate or embassy websites to ensure compliance.

Achieving Your Study or Work Goals in Germany With VISA Axis

Getting the opportunity to study or work in Germany is not by chance. It takes careful planning, proper documentation, and compliance with visa rules. From choosing the best way for your English proficiency to ensuring a smooth visa process, the details matter, and so does having the right knowledge and experience in immigration policies, university requirements, and work permits.

Visa Axis offers expert assistance from professionals specializing in entrepreneurs, job seekers, and work visas. As the most trusted immigration and visa consultants in India, they give clear guidance for anyone wanting to study or work in Germany, Canada, and Australia, ensuring every step meets the official requirements.

FAQs:

1. Can I study in Germany with a low IELTS score?

Students studying in Germany do not need to aim for a 7.0 IELTS score since the country does not use English as its primary language. Every university maintains independent IELTS score standards; thus, students must verify specific demands from their selected institution. Some universities might accept scores around 5.5 or 6.0, while others could ask for a higher score, especially if the program is really competitive.

2. Are there any German universities that don’t require IELTS?

Some German universities don’t ask for IELTS scores when you apply, especially if you’ve already studied in English. Some of those top universities are: 

• University of Kassel
• University of Kaiserslautern
• University of Giessen
• Flensburg University of Applied Sciences
• University of Siegen
• University of Kiel
• Ruhr University Bochum
• Technical University of Braunschweig
• University of Bayreuth
• Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences
• Chemnitz University of Technology
  

3. Is IELTS Academic or General required for studying in Germany?

Students who wish to study in foreign educational institutions need to complete the IELTS Academic examination. Students seeking admission to German universities must typically take the IELTS Academic exam since it is the commonly accepted test for enrollment in universities.

4. How long is an IELTS score valid for German university applications?

An IELTS test score is valid for two years. After that time, you will need to take the test again. If you take the test multiple times within those two years, only your latest score will count.

5. Can I take an alternative English test instead of IELTS for a German student visa?

There are some well-known options besides the IELTS exam for studying in Germany, like the PTE, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test. A lot of German universities will also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate if your last degree was taught in English.