Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I take the DSH exam?

The DSH is organised by individual universities and preparatory colleges. However, not all universities offer the DSH exam. Under ‘DSH Dates’, you will find an overview of when and where the exams take place.

2. How often is the DSH exam held?

The DSH exam is offered twice a year at some universities and four times a year at others. As a rule, however, it takes place before the start of the semester.

3. What are the entry requirements?

Most universities require a C1 certificate as a prerequisite for registering for the exam.

4. Is admission to the university required?

That depends on the university in question. Some universities do not admit external candidates. In such cases, you must apply for a degree programme and be admitted before you are invited to sit the DSH exam. However, many universities allow external candidates to sit the exam without prior admission.

5. How many times can you retake the exam?

You may retake the DSH exam as many times as necessary if you do not pass it.

6. How much does the exam cost?

The examination fees are set by the respective universities. Currently, the fees range from 100 to 200 euros.

7. What do the results DSH-1, DSH-2 and DSH-3 mean?

DSH-1 corresponds to a mark between 57–67%.

DSH-2: 67–81%

DSH-3: >82%

8. What grade is required to study at university?

At most universities, a DSH-2 certificate is a prerequisite. For engineering courses, a DSH-1 is sufficient at some universities, whilst a DSH-3 is often required for medicine and law.

9. Do you have to take the exam at the specific university where you wish to study?

No. For example, if you pass the DSH exam at the University of Hanover, you can apply to any German university with the DSH certificate from the University of Hanover – with the exception of the University of Stuttgart, which only accepts its own certificates.

10. How long does DSH preparation take?

If you start at A1 level, you will need about a year. The duration depends on your progress and the courses offered by the institute. Here you will find institutes that offer DSH preparation. Some institutes offer more intensive courses, enabling you to reach the DSH level in a shorter time. We therefore recommend that you pay particular attention to the structure and scope of the programme when choosing an institute.

11. How is the exam structured?

The DSH consists of two parts: Written examOral examThe two exams do not take place on the same day. After passing the written part, applicants are invited to the oral examination.

12. Do you have to pass both parts of the exam?

Yes, you must pass both the written and the oral exam.

13. How is the overall mark calculated from the written and oral parts?

The overall mark is determined by combining the results of both parts of the exam.

You can find an overview in the table below:

14. Is the DSH certificate recognised by all German universities and colleges?

With the exception of the University of Stuttgart, the DSH certificate is accepted nationwide.

15. How long is the certificate valid for?

The DSH certificate is valid indefinitely and does not expire.

16. What happens next if you pass the exam?

If you have already been admitted to a university, you can start studying in the next semester. Qualifications from some countries are not recognised. In that case, you must also take the FSP (assessment test). Don’t worry! There are Studienkolleg courses available for this. For further information about the Studienkolleg, please visit our website: studienkolleg.com