Study preparation (DSH)

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Attention: Technical Change

Due to a technical change, it will not be possible to register for or make payments for courses in the DSH program during the week of October 26–November 2, 26.

This applies to the following courses:

German Course for University Preparation (Level B2) (Start: January 25, 2027)

DSH Training (Start: February 15, 2027)

DSH Exam (written section: March 10, 2027)

We will post an update here once the technical transition is complete.

The DSH exam (German Language Proficiency Test for University Admission) serves as proof that you have sufficient German language skills to successfully pursue a degree at a German university. It demonstrates that you can follow academic lectures and communicate at a high level.

At the University of Kassel, you can prepare for the exam and take it.

Certified Acceptance Testing

The DSH exam at the Language Center of the University of Kassel is officially recognized and registered with the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) (No. 142-06/15). It is administered in accordance with the nationwide regulations for DSH exams.

Preparation courses and supplementary exam training

The Language Center offers German language courses designed to help students prepare specifically for their studies. Each course consists of 20 class hours per week and lasts 10–13 weeks. The courses take students from language level B1 to B2 and from B2 to C1.

Supplementary Exam Preparation

The three-week DSH exam preparation course is an intensive course designed to prepare students for the exam. It focuses specifically on practicing the types of tasks found on the DSH exam. The training follows the C1 course in terms of both level and timing, but is not a mandatory prerequisite for taking the actual exam. It is also open to external candidates who wish to take only this training.

Important requirements

To participate in the DSH exam and the preparatory courses, certain administrative and academic steps are required:

  • Conditional Admission: You must have a current “conditional admission” from the University of Kassel. This official letter from the Student Affairs Office confirms that you are permitted to begin your studies as soon as you have demonstrated sufficient German language proficiency (e.g., by passing the DSH exam). Since it can take several weeks to issue this letter, we strongly recommend planning well in advance.
  • Attendance Requirement: All courses and training programs require your regular in-person attendance in Kassel.
  • Costs: Fees apply for both the DSH exam and the individual preparatory courses. Detailed information on costs and payment options is listed directly with each respective program.

Necessary language skills

  • To participate in the exam preparation course and take the DSH exam, you must demonstrate C1 proficiency with a certificate (telc, Goethe, ÖSD) or a passed C1 language certificate with grades and 1,000 hours of German study.
  • To participate in the preparatory course aimed at language level C1, you must demonstrate B2 proficiency with a certificate (telc, Goethe, ÖSD) or a B2 report card with individual grades and at least 800 hours of German instruction.
  • To participate in the preparatory course aimed at the B2 language level, you must demonstrate B1 proficiency with a certificate (telc, Goethe, ÖSD) or a B1 report card with individual grades and at least 600 hours of German instruction.

Certificates of attendance without grades cannot be accepted as proof.
Two start dates per year: You can begin this program either in January (Session 1) or in July (Session 2). Flexible entry: If you already have a solid C1-level proficiency, you can skip the language courses and go directly into the three-week DSH format training (Phase 3) to prepare optimally for the exam in March or September. Prerequisite: Conditional admission from the University of Kassel is required for both the courses and the exam.

A Flexible Path to the DSH Exam: Your Personalized Approach

Our curriculum outlines the complete path to certification, from the basics of the language to the DSH exam. Please note the following details when planning your individual path:
  • Seamless transition for current students: Anyone who successfully completes our B2 language course moves directly into the C1 course without having to take another placement test.
  • Entry at any point is possible: You are not required to follow the entire roadmap. Depending on your prior knowledge and documentation, various entry points are available to you:
    • Direct entry into C1: For external applicants after passing the C1 placement test.
    • Direct entry into exam format training: For participants who already have advanced C1-level proficiency and wish to prepare specifically for the exam format.
    • Direct Entry to the DSH Exam: For external exam candidates with appropriate proof of qualifications.

DSH exam

Training, registration, dates and procedure

DSH exam: More Infos

Preparation courses

German courses during the semester

Preparation courses: More Infos

Study place

Application guide for internationals

Study place: More Infos

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