H I L F . M I R . D O C H

Recognition/
Equivalence test

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Recognition/
Equivalence test

In Germany, an equivalence assessment refers to the evaluation and recognition of foreign educational certificates or qualifications in comparison to German educational standards. This assessment is carried out to determine whether the qualifications acquired abroad meet German requirements and standards.

The equivalence test is important for people who have studied or worked abroad and now wish to work or continue their studies in Germany. Depending on the profession or level of education, recognition of foreign qualifications may be a prerequisite for practising a certain profession or for admission to a further education institution.

The exact procedures and responsibilities for the equivalence assessment may vary depending on the federal state and occupational field. It is important to contact the relevant recognition centre or guidance centre for information and assistance with the equivalence assessment. The exact requirements for an equivalence assessment may vary depending on the occupational field, the type of qualification and the federal state in Germany. However, there are some basic steps and documents that are usually required for the equivalence assessment:

In most cases, you will need to complete an application form provided by the responsible recognition centre.

You must submit notarised copies of your foreign qualifications and certificates. These can be certified by the training centre that issued the qualifications or by an official authority.

If your documents are not written in German or English, you will need certified translations.

An up-to-date CV may often be required to showcase your career and experience.

If you have professional experience, it may be necessary to provide references from previous employers.

For some professions and degree programmes, proof of sufficient German language skills may be required, usually through a recognised language certificate such as the TestDaF or DSH.

Fees may be incurred for processing the application.

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Notice

It is important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on the federal state and occupational field. You should therefore contact the relevant recognition centre or guidance centre to obtain precise information on the requirements for your specific situation. It may also be useful to seek professional support from specialised service providers or lawyers for the recognition procedures.

What are TestDaF and DSH?

TestDaF and DSH are two of the most common language tests used in Germany to assess the German language skills of foreign students or professionals who wish to study or work in Germany.

TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language): The TestDaF is a standardised language test that assesses the German language skills of non-native speakers. It consists of four parts: Reading Comprehension, Listening Comprehension, Written Proficiency and Oral Proficiency. The results are measured on a scale of TDN (TestDaF levels) from 3 to 5, with 5 being the highest level. The TestDaF is often taken by people who want to study at German universities, as it is often used as an admission requirement. DSH (German language examination for university admission for foreign applicants): The DSH is a special German examination used by German universities to test the German language skills of foreign applicants. Unlike the TestDaF, the DSH is not conducted by external organisations. Each university can create and organise its own DSH exam. The DSH exam also consists of reading, listening, writing and speaking, but may vary slightly depending on the university. The results are often graded on a scale from DSH-1 to DSH-3, with DSH-3 being the highest level. To study at German universities, DSH-2 or DSH-3 is usually required. Both examinations are designed to ensure that foreign students have sufficient German language skills to study successfully at German universities. Which exam is required and which level must be achieved depends on the respective university and its admission requirements.
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