How to Prepare for the TestDaF: Tips from My Experience

Hallo, Deutschlerner! I'm Herr Antrim, and today I’m here to help you prepare for one of the most important exams for anyone who wants to study at a German university: the TestDaF.

This is the exact exam I had to take when I applied to a German university for my online master’s degree in German. And let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. In fact, I had to take it twice!

My Personal TestDaF Story

The university I applied to required at least two scores of 5 and two scores of 4 across the four sections of the test. The first time I took it, I got all 4s. That would have been enough for most universities, but not for the specific program I wanted.

So, I tried again. The second time, I got two 5s and two 4s, just enough to get accepted. I know how stressful this test can be, and I want to help you avoid my mistakes and give you the best shot at success.

What Is the TestDaF?

TestDaF stands for Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test of German as a Foreign Language). It’s one of the two main language exams accepted by German universities, the other being the DSH, which is only available in Germany. That’s why I chose TestDaF and drove four hours to Chicago to take it at the Goethe-Institut.

If you're not in Germany, TestDaF is your best option.

Structure of the Digital TestDaF

The digital version of the TestDaF is broken into four sections:

📖 Reading (Lesen)

1. 60 minutes
2. 3 texts with a total of 30 questions
3. Question types: multiple choice, matching, ordering paragraphs, correcting summaries
4. Tip: Skim for structure, scan for keywords, and manage your time wisely.

🎧 Listening (Hören)

• 40 minutes
• 3 audio types: dialogues, interviews, lectures
• 25 questions
• You only hear each audio once, so focus on the main ideas and speaker opinions.

✍️ Writing (Schreiben)

• 60 minutes
• Part 1: Write a 200+ word argumentative essay
• Part 2: Summarize a short text + graphic in 100–150 words
• Tip: Practice structuring your arguments and using connectors.

🗣️ Speaking (Sprechen)

• 35 minutes
• 7 tasks: giving advice, expressing opinions, summarizing, presenting
• Each task is timed and recorded. No re-dos. Be ready to speak on the spot.

How to Prepare for the TestDaF

Here are my best tips to help you prepare effectively:

🔗 Use Official Practice Materials

Start at testdaf.de. You’ll find:

• Sample tests
• Audio files
• Evaluation rubrics for speaking and writing

🎓 Consider Deutsch-Uni Online (DUO)

DUO offers a full training course designed for TestDaF prep. While I didn’t use it myself, it’s recommended by the creators of the exam, so it’s worth checking out if you want a guided program.

⏱️ Simulate the Real Test

Try to replicate the full exam experience:

• Reading: 60 minutes
• 10-minute break
• Listening: 40 minutes
• 30–60-minute break
• Writing: 60 minutes
• 10-minute break
• Speaking: 35 minutes

🛑 During breaks, you’re not allowed to use your phone or read. Use this time to:

• Get a snack
• Use the restroom
• Clear your mind (like I did!)

Wait until after you’ve finished the whole practice test to check your answers. That’s how it works on test day, so don’t train your brain to expect mid-test feedback.

📋 Use the Rubrics to Self-Evaluate

Yes, even for writing and speaking! The rubrics are clear and consistent. You can even ask a friend to help evaluate your speaking responses.

Day of the Exam: What to Expect

The day I took the test, I drove four hours to Chicago and listened to German podcasts the entire way. When I arrived, the staff spoke only German from the moment I walked in.

Switching into “German mode” early helped me stay sharp. If you can do the same, it’ll make a big difference.

Learn from My Mistakes

The first time I took the exam, I didn’t prepare well. I assumed my general German knowledge was enough. It wasn’t.

Three months later, I took it again with a better understanding of the format, stronger time management, and actual practice under test conditions. My German hadn’t improved much, but my test-taking strategy had, and that made all the difference.

Final Thoughts

The TestDaF isn’t just a language test. It’s a performance test. You already have the German skills? Great. Now practice the format, time yourself, and prepare like it’s the real thing.

Du kannst das schaffen. Ich glaube an dich. 💪

Viel Erfolg beim Lernen und viel Glück bei der Prüfung!