Study in Germany without IELTS: the proofs universities accept
German universities set their own English rules, so IELTS is one option among several. Here is what DAAD-listed programmes actually ask for.
You can study in Germany without IELTS because each English-taught programme sets its own requirement. DAAD’s programme database lists examples such as Cambridge English, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and the Duolingo English Test as accepted proofs. Typical levels run from B2 to C1, for example IELTS 5.5 at one Aachen programme and 6.5 at one Trier programme. Some programmes accept an English-medium degree with a medium-of-instruction (MOI) certificate instead of a test.
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Which English tests do German universities accept besides IELTS?
Requirements belong to each programme, but DAAD’s database of English-taught programmes lists these among the accepted proofs:
- Cambridge English qualifications
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Essentials
- PTE Academic
- TOEIC and onSET English
- Duolingo English Test
Not every programme accepts every test, so open the programme page and read its “language requirements” line before you book anything.
What English level do programmes ask for?
DAAD listings show requirements between B2 and C1. A few examples from listings in the database:
| Programme listing | Requirement shown | Note |
|---|---|---|
| An Aachen master’s programme | IELTS Academic 5.5 | Lower end of the range |
| A Trier master’s programme | IELTS Academic 6.5 | Common mid-range level |
| Some arts and literature programmes | C1, IELTS Academic 7 | Higher bar for language-heavy courses |
Examples only, taken from DAAD listings. Your programme may differ, so confirm on the university page.
Can an English-medium degree replace the test?
Some programmes waive the test for applicants whose education was in English. One Aachen listing accepts a university entrance qualification from an English-medium school, or at least 180 ECTS in an English-medium degree shown through the Diploma Supplement or an MOI certificate. A Trier listing waives the test for applicants who completed two years of full-time study in an English-taught programme within the past two years in a listed majority-English country.
- Ask your previous university for an MOI certificate early; it can take weeks.
- Check whether the programme counts an Indian degree as English-medium. Rules differ by university.
- Check how recent the study must be. One listing requires it within the past two years.
- If the programme does not mention an MOI route, assume you need a test.
What is the new TOEFL scale in German listings?
ETS redesigned the TOEFL iBT on 21 January 2026 and now reports scores on a 1–6 scale. Some German listings show two cut-offs, such as TOEFL iBT (since 2026): 4.5 and TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 80. Make sure you compare your result against the right scale. Read our English test comparison for details.
What should I do step by step?
- Shortlist programmes and note each one’s accepted English proofs, level and test validity.
- Choose the cheapest proof that every programme on your list accepts, and book it early.
- Apply through the university or uni-assist as the programme directs, and allow time before the deadline. Typical deadlines are 15 July for winter and 15 January for summer, but many master’s programmes close earlier.
- Open your blocked account before the visa application: for 2026 the minimum is €11,904 for the first year. See MS in Germany cost.
- Read the full Study in Germany guide and the DAAD scholarship guide.
German-taught programmes need proof of German instead, which is a separate requirement from the English route on this page.
Official sources
Figures on this page were checked on 22 Oct 2026. Rules and fees change, so always confirm the current numbers on the official site before you pay or apply.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Germany without IELTS?
Yes. Each English-taught programme sets its own requirement, and DAAD lists examples such as Cambridge English, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and the Duolingo English Test as accepted proofs. Some programmes also accept an English-medium degree with an MOI certificate.
What English level do German master's programmes ask for?
Sample DAAD listings range from B2 to C1, for example IELTS 5.5 at one Aachen programme and 6.5 at one Trier programme, with some arts and literature programmes asking for IELTS 7.
Does an MOI certificate replace IELTS in Germany?
At some programmes, yes. One listing accepts at least 180 ECTS in an English-medium degree shown through an MOI certificate, but other programmes do not, so check each programme page.
How does the new TOEFL scale affect German applications?
ETS launched a 1–6 scale on 21 January 2026. Some listings show separate cut-offs for scores since 2026 and before 2026, so compare your result with the matching one.
How much money must I show for a German student visa?
Make it in Germany lists a minimum blocked-account balance of €11,904 for 2026, which is €992 per month for the first year.
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