Aptitude test and cognitive skills
TestAS
The TestAS is a test for international students who want to apply to an undergraduate program at a German university (Bachelor, Magister, Diploma or State Examination).
The test assesses cognitive skills that are necessary for university skills and helps you to identify your strengths, to choose a field of study which matches with your ability and to become familiar with the demands of your desired study program. The TestAS certificate is valid for a lifetime and takes place three times a year in English or German in 280 testing centers in 80 countries.
Note that it is not mandatory for studying in Germany!
Recognition
The test is a standardised method for universities to measure the academic performance of their preospective students.
The recognition and the weight of the test results varies from university to university. While it is obligatory for admission to some universities, others do not consider it in their admission decision. Moreover, at some universities, for example in North Rhine Westphalia, the TestAS serves as university entrance qualification, which means that you do not have to attend a Studienkolleg (preparatory course).
Structure
The test assesses your general and subject-related aptitude in three modules: a language test, a core test, and a subject-specific test. It does not measure what you know, but rather your cognitive skills in general.
Language test
The language test assesses general language proficiency in German or English. Your language skills should be equivalent to or higher than level B1 of the European Framework of References for Languages.
Note that B1 is below the level required if you wish to study in Germany and that the language test module in the TestAS does not replace the recognised language examination required for admission to German universities, such as the TestDaF.
Core and subject-specific test
While the core test assesses the general skills that are required in all academic courses, the subject-specific assesses the skills you need in your specific subject area.
You may choose one subject from these four:
—Humanities, Cultural, and Social Studies
—Engineering
—Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences
—Economics
