Do I need a DAAD certificate for my exchange application?

You probably already have a suitable certificate for the application stage of exchanges organised by TUM. You should check the exchange websites for details of the proofs of language proficiency accepted.

I need a certificate to show my level of English, which one do I need?

Sorry, we are not the people to advise you. For the Erasmus exchange you will need to ask the Erasmus Beauftragte in your faculty. For TUM exchange, refer to the advice on the TUM Global & Alumni Office’s website:

http://www.international.tum.de/en/going-abroad/students/tumexchange/

I need a DAAD certificate, how do I get one?

There are three ways to get certification for an exchange program:

1. Attend and complete a TUM Language Center course of at least 3 ECTS credits – the Einzelleistungsnachweis can be used directly in the university’s exchange applications (TUMexchange, Erasmus+ etc).

2. Take the TUM Language Center test for DAAD certification – the test is offered year-round, check the website for details.

3. We can also issue a B2 certificate on the basis of a German Abitur with at least 7 points in each of the final four half years.

I have been offered an exchange place, the partner university has asked for a DAAD certificate, how can I get one?

Please send an email to sprachenzentrum@tum.de with the subject line "Request for DAAD certificate on the basis of German Abitur/ TUM SZ English course" 

Attach the proof of English you used for the application and we will issue a DAAD certificate at that level. Please allow about a week to receive the certificate.

I have been offered an exchange place, the partner university has asked for another kind of English certificate, can you help?

We do not have any influence over the demands made by other universities, and we are also not responsible for the exchange programs within TUM. Please check how to proceed with the relevant exchange coordinator.

Where do I sign up for the test?

Places for the test dates are limited so please organize yourself early! You can register to take the test on Moodle – search for Registration for Test for English DAAD certification

How can I prepare for the test? Is there a preparation course?

The test for DAAD certification is a simple test of your current language skills. You can best prepare by regularly reading/ watching quality English language media and actively practising your productive language (written and spoken).

What will I have to do in the test?

Our computer-based test for DAAD certification is available on the MUC and Straubing campuses. It consists of reading, writing, listening and speaking sections (both multiple choice and active production) and will take about 2 hours.

Please be sure to have your matriculation card, TUMid and password with you!

I have dyslexia and am entitled to an extension of time during exams. Does this also apply to the TUM test for DAAD certification?

Yes, of course. Please send a PDF of your ‘Nachteilausgleich’ letter to the DAAD coordinator 2 weeks before your appointment date.

How long will it take to get my certificate?

Your certificate will be issued as a PDF within a week of the test. It will be sent directly to your TUM email address.

I need my certificate urgently! Can I get it sooner?

Speak to your DAAD examiner before the test to see if an earlier collection is possible. But please note, ultimately your lack of preparation is not our problem.

I have a special form that needs to be filled out for my internship/ exchange university. Can you sign it?

We are able to provide DAAD certificates for academic purposes. You should approach your exchange coordinator for clarification of further demands from the partner universities as such additional requests are best resolved by them for the whole program.

I took the test already. Can I take it again?

Theoretically, you may register to take the test a maximum of once per semester. However, please only apply to take the test if you really need it for an exchange, scholarship or internship application.

How long is the certificate valid?

The DAAD certificate is generally considered valid for 2 years from the date of issue.

I consider myself a native speaker of English. Can you issue me a C2 certificate?

Sadly, we don’t have the resources to make alternative arrangements for every situation. You will need to follow the usual routes to obtain a DAAD certificate.

I would like a DAAD certificate for my CV

As suggested by its name, the certificate from the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (German Academic Exchange Service) is solely intended to facilitate your applications for international studies/ work experience.

The DAAD certificate is only recognised within academia and does not have the wide international acceptance (particularly in companies) of proficiency certification such as the Cambridge Exams, IELTS, TOEFL etc.

For these reasons, if you are determined to include a certificate in your CV, a printout from your own printer is more than adequate!

I’m in Munich but I’m not a TUM student. Can I take the test?

Sorry, no. The test is only open to matriculated TUM students. You will need a TUMid and password to get into the computer-based test.

What does it cost?

The test is free for TUM students and staff members.

I work at TUM, can I take the test?

The test is open to all matriculated students and staff, including PhD candidates: Each candidate should show a TUM ID card at the test.