Certified German Language Tests for Ausbildung Application

For everyone aspiring to undertake Ausbildung in Germany, one of the initial challenges you are likely to encounter is regarding German language certification. Ausbildung is a dual vocational training model where you receive theoretical knowledge and work experience simultaneously. As most of the classes and workplace interactions would take place in German, a language certification test is compulsory for most Ausbildung training courses.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we often come across several students who are in doubt as to which German language exam they should take and what level they need for their application. In this blog post, we will try to explain everything as simply as possible.

Why German Language Proficiency is Important for Ausbildung

When applying for Ausbildung, German employers and training institutions want to see your proof of language skills in the form of an internationally recognized certification. The reason behind it is simple – German employers expect candidates to communicate without any problem from day one. You will be working side-by-side with German colleagues, receiving instructions, attending classes in vocational schools and interacting with customers in many trades. If your German language skills leave much to be desired, even the most talented candidate can struggle to settle in.

That is why employers and vocational schools ask for proof of language ability through internationally recognised certificates rather than just self reported skills.

What Language Level Do You Need

Minimum required language level for most of the Ausbildung programs is B1. Some employers expect applicants to be at least at the B2 level, particularly those which imply direct customer contact, like healthcare, hospitality, and retail. Some technical trades such as mechatronics, IT, logistics accept B1 applicants, expecting them to improve their language skills during the training.

It is always recommended to find out the required level mentioned by the particular company or vocational training institution.

Recognised German Language Certification Exams

Here is the list of certificates which are considered to be acceptable for Ausbildung applications.

Goethe-Zertifikat

This certificate is issued by the Goethe-Institut and recognized all around the world. It is available at levels starting from A1 till C2. As for most of the Ausbildung applicants, Goethe-Zertifikat B1 or B2 is the desired one. This certification is considered to be very reliable and proves high proficiency of language skills, including reading, listening, writing and speaking.

TELC (The European Language Certificates)

TELC exams are yet another certification choice recognised by German companies and vocational training institutions. As they follow the same Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, a TELC B1 or B2 is equivalent to the corresponding level of Goethe. As the name suggests, the TELC exam aims at practical language skills and, thus, will be convenient for students planning to enrol in Ausbildung because the training program is also practice-oriented.

ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch)

Although ÖSD certificates were developed in Austria, they are also acknowledged in Germany. Students can use them if it is easier for them to take the exam at the ÖSD centre than Goethe or TELC.

DSD (Deutsches Sprachdiplom)

DSD is mostly relevant for those students who learned German as a subject at school due to participating in an international program. DSD certificates are not widely available among adult candidates applying for Ausbildung.

DTZ (Deutsch Test für Zuwanderer)

DTZ is widely used in Germany for the purposes of integration, but some vocational schools do recognise DTZ for proving B1 level German for Ausbildung application documentation.

How to Choose the Right Exam

Choosing between Goethe and TELC often comes down to availability, exam format preference, and where you are taking the test. Both are equally respected, so you cannot go wrong picking either one, as long as you meet the level required by your target employer.

If your chosen trade involves heavy customer interaction, aim for B2 rather than settling at B1. It genuinely improves both your job prospects and how quickly you adjust to life and work in Germany.

How BCES Admissions Abroad Can Help

Having understood the nature of the exams and which one to undertake, the next challenge will be acquiring sufficient proficiency level. We offer our clients German language training aimed at helping prospective students acquire adequate knowledge in the German language. In our training sessions, we help trainees prepare for exams and master conversational skills which help them pass exams with flying colors.

In addition to preparing students for language proficiency exams, we also help in navigating through the whole process of applying for Ausbildung. We assist in finding the right trade for you, choosing an employer and helping students with all the necessary documentation required to get visas.

Conclusion

Acquisition of a recognized German language certificate is an important step towards becoming successful in the process of Ausbildung. Whatever exam you choose, the most important thing is regular preparation and effort to become proficient enough in communicating. This task becomes quite easy with proper guidance and training from professionals. Contact us at +91 9319996330 to embark on German language training sessions today.