Are you planning to pursue your undergraduate degree in Germany in 2025?
Before you start planning your studies, it is important to take the TestAS exam, to take admission to a German university and to apply for a German study visa.
In this blog, we are going to tell you everything about this TestAS exam in detail, so that you can start preparing for it immediately to score good marks and secure your seat in a German university.
What is a TestAS exam?
The TestAS (Test für Ausländische Studierende) is a standard aptitude test to test the academic potential of international students who want to study in Germany on a bachelor’s basis.
As a crucial tool for university admission, it focuses on various fields by assessing both general and subject-specific skills at different levels, enabling universities to compare students from various educational backgrounds.
It has two main components:
- Core Test: This section evaluates general academic skills, including:
- Language Proficiency: Assesses comprehension and analytical abilities in either German or English.
- Quantitative Problem-Solving: Tests mathematical reasoning and application.
- Logical Thinking: Measures the ability to identify patterns and relationships.
- Subject-Specific Modules: Candidates select one module aligned with their intended field of study. The available modules are:
- Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Social Sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences
- Economics
- Life Sciences
- Medicine
The TestAS is offered in both German and English, allowing candidates to choose based on their language proficiency. Scoring is standardized, with results presented as percentile ranks and standard values, enabling universities to objectively assess an applicant’s suitability for academic programs.
Why take the TestAS exam?
Taking a TestAS exam will give you many advantages such as:
- A strong test score may bolster your application, or even be required.
- The TestAS aids in better classification and evaluation of your foreign qualifications.
- You take the TestAS in German and in English (language level A2-B2 CEFR).
- The TestAS can be taken in your home country at numerous g.a.s.t. test centres or in your immediate area.
TestAS exam format
Before you start your preparation for this exam, it is important to understand its format first:
Core Test:
- Duration: Approximately 110 minutes.
- Question Types:
- Solving Quantitative Problems: Mathematical questions requiring analytical solutions.
- Inferring Relationships: Identifying logical connections between concepts.
- Completing Patterns: Visual pattern recognition and continuation.
- Continuing Numerical Series: Determining the next elements in numerical sequences.
Subject-Specific Module:
- Duration: Approximately 145 to 150 minutes, varying by module.
- Content: Focuses on discipline-specific knowledge and problem-solving skills relevant to the chosen field.
The TestAS is offered in computer-based and paper-based versions. While the computer-based version usually provides faster result processing, the paper-based test is taken on specific dates at specified centres. You must adopt the format that works best for their preferences and logistics.
- The results of the digital test are shown on two scales: a score scale of (0-200) and a percentile rank (scale 1-100). The scores are calculated for the entire Core Module and the entire Subject Module. In addition, there is an overall score (scale 0–400).
- The results of the paper-based test are shown on two scales: a score scale of (70-130) and a percentile rank (scale 1-100). The scores are calculated separately for the core tests and the subject module.
TestAS syllabus
A thorough understanding of the TestAS exam syllabus is essential for targeted preparation.
Core Test covers:
- Solving Quantitative Problems: Arithmetic, percentages, ratios, and basic geometry.
- Inferring Relationships: Verbal analogies and logical associations.
- Completing Patterns: Visual sequences and spatial reasoning.
- Continuing Numerical Series: Identifying patterns in number sequences.
Subject-Specific Modules delve into:
- Humanities, Cultural Studies, and Social Sciences: Text analysis, understanding linguistic structures, and evaluating arguments.
- Engineering: Interpreting technical data, visualizing mechanical components, and analyzing technical diagrams.
- Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences: Data interpretation, scientific reasoning, and mathematical problem-solving.
- Economics: Analyzing economic processes, interpreting financial data, and understanding economic models.
- Life Sciences: Understanding biological systems, interpreting scientific data, and applying scientific concepts.
- Medicine: Medical terminology, understanding clinical processes, and interpreting medical data.
For detailed syllabi and sample questions, candidates are encouraged to consult the official TestAS preparation materials.
How to register for TestAS?
- Registering: You need to register on the official TestAS registration website by entering your personal information.
- Choose and schedule an exam: Pick a test centre location and a date based on your preferences.
- Select Test Language and Module: The test language is either German or English, and you choose the subject-specific module that aligns with your intended area of study
- Submit Necessary Documents: You will need to upload a current photo, valid ID, and any other required documents.
- Costs: Fees for the TestAS exam differ by country, e.g. in India, it is around 150 € This is usually completed during registration where you can pay online.
Registration deadlines are important to observe and are generally a few weeks ahead of the test date.
Is the TestAS exam difficult?
The TestAS exam is challenging but manageable with proper preparation. Its difficulty level depends on your proficiency in logical reasoning, problem-solving, and subject-specific knowledge.
Practising with sample papers and understanding the TestAS syllabus can significantly enhance performance.
Is TestAS compulsory for a visa?
While the TestAS is not a mandatory requirement for obtaining a student visa, it is recommended for increasing admission prospects at German universities.
Certain universities may require TestAS scores as part of their admission criteria, indirectly influencing visa approval.
TestAS results
- Availability: TestAS results are typically available within four weeks of the exam date.
- Score Report: Scores are presented as percentile ranks and standard values.
- Validity: TestAS scores are valid for an indefinite period but are typically used within two years of the test date.
Next TestAS exam dates
- 18th February 2025
- 19th March 2025
- 26th April 2025
Conclusion
The TestAS is a fantastic resource for international students hoping to study in Germany. It evaluates academic potential, fills educational gaps, and improves chances of admission.
Thus, with proper preparations, strategic planning for the TestAS exam, and command over the TestAS syllabus, it is possible to fulfil your academic ambitions in Germany.
