Which language requirements does my desired study programme have?
Good language skills are an important requirement for success at university. For some bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes at Leibniz Universität Hannover, applicants must provide evidence of their foreign language skills. In addition, international applicants must provide evidence of their knowledge of German for all degree programmes delivered in German.
What certificates do I need for my chosen degree programme?
Here you will find detailed information about the examinations, tests and certificates you need at Leibniz Universität Hannover to prove that your language skills meet the level required to register for your chosen degree programme.
Please note: The relevant admission regulations for your chosen subject provide information about the language level required in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The information provided here is not exhaustive.
Evidence of adequate knowledge of German
- Applicants who possess a German higher education entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur) are not required to provide evidence of their German language proficiency.
- In order to apply for any Bachelor’s degree programme at Leibniz Universität Hannover, international applicants must provide evidence of having passed Level B1; by the time they register, they must have passed Level C1. No knowledge of German is required for just a handful of postgraduate degree programmes. It is recommended that students nevertheless learn German at university to ensure the successful completion of their degree programme.
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German language proficiency - level A2
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. basic personal and family information, shopping, employment, local geography); can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters; can describe in simple terms, aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need."
B.) Areas of use
- Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of German according to the requirements stated in section A.
- In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
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German language proficiency - level B1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.; can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken; can produce simple, connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest; can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.”
B.) Areas of use
- Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of German according to the requirements stated in section A.
- In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to studyThe following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- The German Language Certificate of the Education Ministers Conference (Deutsche Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz, DSD) - successful completion of level one (DSD I)
- Goethe-Zertifikat B1
- telc Deutsch B1
- ÖSD Zertifikat B1
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German language proficiency - level B2
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation; can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers fairly possible without strain for either party; can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.”
B.) Areas of use
- Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of German according to the requirements stated in section A.
- In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to studyThe following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- German language proficiency test for international university applicants (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für ausländische Studienbewerber und –bewerberinnen, DSH) with a result of at least DSH 1
- Test of German as a foreign language (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache, TestDaF, paper-based or digital) with a result of at least 4 x TDN 3
- Goethe-Zertifikat B2
- telc Deutsch B2
- ÖSD Zertifikat B2
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German language proficiency - level C1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning; can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions; can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes; can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.”
B.) Areas of use
- Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of German according to the requirements stated in section A.
- In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to studyThe following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- German language proficiency test for international university applicants (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für ausländische Studienbewerber und –bewerberinnen, DSH) with a result of at least DSH 2
- Test of German as a foreign language (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache, TestDaF, paper-based or digital) with a result of at least 4 x TDN 4
- The "German" exam component of the assessment test at colleges
- The German Language Certificate of the Education Ministers Conference (Deutsche Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz, DSD) - level two (DSD II)
- Goethe-Zertifikat C2
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
- ÖSD Zertifikat C2 (!)
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German language proficiency - level C2
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read; can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation; can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations."
B.) Areas of use
- Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of German according to the requirements stated in section A.
- In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
Evidence of adequate knowledge of English
- Applicants who possess a German higher education entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur) must only provide evidence of their English language proficiency for some postgraduate degree programmes. Exception: Students wishing to take English in a bachelor’s degree programme comprising two subjects will need to provide evidence of their English language proficiency (see below for more details).
- Some postgraduate degree programmes may be pursued in either German or English. Applicants must provide evidence of proficiency in either English or German, depending on their chosen strand.
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English language proficiency - level B1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the lower level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.; can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken; can produce simple, connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest; can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.”
B.) Areas of use
Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of English according to the requirements stated in section A.
In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®, iBT or Home Edition) with a result of at least 53 points
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic, paper-based, digital or online) with a result of at least 4.5
- B1 Preliminary (previously PET)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic, paper-based or digital) with a result of at least 43 points
- UNIcert® I
Important note: Please use only the department code "99" for the electronic transmission of TOEFL® scores to Leibniz University!
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English language proficiency - level B2
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires competence of the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation; can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers fairly possible without strain for either party; can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.”
B.) Areas of use
Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of English according to the requirements stated in section A.
In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL® iBT or Home Edition) with a result of at least 72 points
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic, paper-based, digital or online) with a result of 5.5
- B2 First (previously FCE)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic, paper-based or digital) with a result of at least 59 points
- telc English B2⋅C1 University
- UNIcert® II
Important note: Please use only the department code "99" for the electronic transmission of TOEFL® scores to Leibniz University!
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English language proficiency - level C1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires competence of the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning; can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions; can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes; can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.”
B.) Areas of use
Upon enrolment or a change of subject, each applicant must prove sufficient knowledge of English according to the requirements stated in section A.
In the case of a change of subject within Leibniz Universität Hannover, the requirements defined in section A may differ from the language requirements necessary, thus making up-to-date proof of language proficiency necessary.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®, iBT or Home Edition) with a result of at least 95 points
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic, paper-based, digital or online) with a result of at least 7.0
- C1 Advanced (previously CAE)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic, paper-based or digital) with a result of at least 76 points
- telc English B2⋅C1 University
- UNIcert® III
Important note: Please use only the department code "99" for the electronic transmission of TOEFL® scores to Leibniz University!
Evidence of adequate knowledge of French
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French language proficiency - level B1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.; can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken; can produce simple, connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest; can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Diplôme d’études de langue francaise (DELF) B1
- Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) level 3 (with all obligatory and optional test parts)
- Test de connaissance du français (Diplôme d'admission préalable, TCF DAP) B1
- telc Français B1
- UNIcert® I French
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French language proficiency - level B2
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation; can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers fairly possible without strain for either party; can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Diplôme d’études de langue francaise (DELF) B2
- Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) level 4 (with all obligatory and optional test parts)
- Test de connaissance du français (Diplôme d'admission préalable, TCF DAP) B2
- telc Français B2
- UNIcert® II French
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French language proficiency - level C1
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning; can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions; can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes; can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF) C1
- Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) level 5 (with all obligatory and optional test parts)
- Test de connaissance du français (Diplôme d'admission préalable, TCF DAP) C1
- telc Français C1
- UNIcert® III French
Evidence of adequate knowledge of Spanish
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Spanish language proficiency - level B1
Please note: This list does not replace the "Ordnung über Kenntnisse der spanischen Sprache für Studienbewerberinnen und Studienbewerber für das Fach Spanisch am Romanischen Seminar der Leibniz Universität Hannover"!
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.; can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken; can produce simple, connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest; can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) B1
- Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española (SIELE Global) B1
- Diploma Internacional de Español (DIE), Intermedio (Level 5 and 6)
- telc Español B1
- UNIcert® I Spanish
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Spanish language proficiency - level B2
Please note: This list does not replace the "Ordnung über Kenntnisse der spanischen Sprache für Studienbewerberinnen und Studienbewerber für das Fach Spanisch am Romanischen Seminar der Leibniz Universität Hannover"!
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation; can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers fairly possible without strain for either party; can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
- Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) B2
- Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española (SIELE Global) B2
- Diploma Internacional de Español (DIE), Avanzado (Level 7 and 8)
- telc Español B2
- UNIcert® II Spanish
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Spanish language proficiency - level C1
Please note: This list does not replace the "Ordnung über Kenntnisse der spanischen Sprache für Studienbewerberinnen und Studienbewerber für das Fach Spanisch am Romanischen Seminar der Leibniz Universität Hannover"!
A.) Definition of language requirements
In the upper level of independent language users (global scale) CEFR requires competence of the following skills: “[The applicant] can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning; can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions; can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes; can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.”
B.) Areas of use
- In some programmes, sufficient knowledge of at least one language other than German and/or English in accordance with the requirements set out under A. must be proven in order to enrol or change subjects.
- In the case of a change of subject within LUH, the language requirements may differ from the requirements defined under A., so that updated proof of language proficiency may be required.
C.) Tests and examinations as proof of linguistic ability to study
The following tests/exams serve as proof of sufficient language proficiency:
Language certificates for specific degree programmes
For bachelor's degree programmes at Leibniz University Hannover, applicants with a German university entrance qualification must only provide proof of foreign language proficiency for the subjects English and Spanish in the Interdisciplinary Bachelor's and Technical Education degree programmes.
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Language certificates for English Studies in the Interdisciplinary Bachelor's and Technical Education degree programmes
All applicants (first-year students as well as students changing programmes or universities) for the subject of English Studies (as a first subject or second subject) must prove that they have the level of English (B2) required for starting university before the degree programme begins. This level of English proficiency can be proven by
- a consistent and successful assignment of the subject English over 4 half-years (only possible with a German Abitur) or
- a Certilingua Label of Excellence acquired in the Abitur (only possible with a German Abitur) or
- Achieving a B2 equivalent score in one of the following language tests (providing the certificate is not older than three years at the time of application):
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), Princeton, NJ, USA
- FCE (First Certificate in English), Cambridge ESOL, Cambridge, GB
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System), Cambridge ESOL, British Council and IDP, IELTS Australia
Exceptions:- Applicants with English as their native language or applicants with a higher education entrance qualification acquired in an English-speaking country or applicants with a university degree in a degree programme in which English is the primary language of instruction
- In special cases, the English Department reserves the right to a assess applications on a case-by-case basis
Dates and deadlines:- None of the language certificates – with the exception of grades gained at sixth form – may have been achieved over three years ago at the time of embarking on the degree programme.
- Certificates should usually be submitted at the time of application
In cases of exception, test results may be submitted by 30 September for winter semester intakes.
Test results:
The minimum score/grade required for admission to a degree programme in the subject of English Studies at the English Department of Leibniz Universität Hannover is currently:
- TOEFL 78
- Cambridge English First (FCE)
- IELTS 6,0
TOEFL at Leibniz Language Centre of Leibniz University Hannover:
Further information: -
Language certificates for Spanish Studies in the Interdisciplinary Bachelor’s and Technical Education degree programmes
All applicants (first-year students as well as students changing programmes) for the subject of Spanish Studies (as a first subject or second subject) must prove that they have the level of Spanish required for starting university before the degree programme begins. This level of Spanish proficiency can be proven by:
- an average of at least 11 points in the basic course or
- 9 points in the advanced level course in Spanish over the last two years of sixth form (whereby Spanish as a seminar subject is not taken into account) or
- a certificate proving that the candidate has passed one of the following language tests:
- “DELE Nivel B1/ B1 Escolar” or
- Basic Level I - III (A1 - B1) (each taught for 4 hrs/wk per semester) at the Leibniz Language Centre of Leibniz Universität or UNIcert I.
Exceptions:- Applicants whose mother tongue is Spanish
- Students taking part in exchange programmes of Leibniz Universität Hannover recognised by the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures
- Students who have already obtained a university degree abroad in a Spanish-speaking country. Candidates must provide supporting documents to prove their knowledge of the Spanish language in accordance with Section 1 (1)/ §1 Absatz 1.
Dates and deadlines:- The result of the language test or the average score obtained in the last four half-year grades in the subject of Spanish may not have been achieved more than two years ago at the time of embarking on the degree programme. The period spent abroad may not be more than two years ago either.
- The results should usually be presented at the time of applying for admission to university, and form part of the application.
In cases of exception, test results may be submitted by 30 September for winter semester intakes.
Test results:- The minimum score/grade required for admission to a degree programme in Spanish Studies at the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures is 70% for the DELE test (web-based) and 4.0 for the UNIcert I test (web-based).
Further information:
Enrolment and examination regulations
The German language requirements for international applicants interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree programme are governed in particular by Section 1 of the Enrolment Regulationsfor Leibniz University Hannover as well as Section 4 of the specific Examination Regulations for Leibniz University Hannover regarding the German Language Examination for University Admission (DSH).
The conditions mentioned here were agreed on by a group of experts from the Leibniz Language Centre at Leibniz University Hannover. These conditions will be reviewed every five years at the latest to ensure they are up-to-date and formally/substantially valid, and adapted as required.
Please note that this page is not exhaustive, nor does it claim to be binding. The language skills required, and evidence of those skills, are governed exclusively, and with legal force, by the admission regulations of your chosen degree programme.
For more information about the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and a detailed description of the requirements relating to individual linguistic skills, please see the following website: Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
Welfengarten 1
30167 Hannover
Welfengarten 1
30167 Hannover