DSH Courses at Paderborn University
Paderborn University offers intensive German language courses to prepare students for the German Language University Entrance Examination (DSH). The course is intended for prospective international students who do not yet possess sufficient German language skills for a degree program taught in German and who intend to pursue their studies at Paderborn University after successful participation in the course and passing the DSH examination.
The DSH course is exclusively for applicants who intend to pursue a degree program in German – not for students of English-taught master's programs.
The courses are conducted by the Center for Language Teaching (ZfS). You start at level B1 and prepare specifically for the DSH exam. Proof of German language skills at A2 level will be required before enrolment.
Notice: Applications for the DSH course are not possible until further notice.
Paderborn University is currently reallocating its resources in German language support towards the area of study-accompanying language courses.
When am I exempt from participating in the DSH course?
If you possess one of the language certificates listed below, participation in the DSH course at Paderborn University is not required. These certificates entitle you to apply directly for a degree program taught in German:
- DSH certificate with at least DSH-2 (obtained at a German university or Studienkolleg in accordance with the HRK framework regulations)
- TestDaF with level 4 in all four parts of the examination
- German Language Diploma (DSD) Level II of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK)
- Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung (ZOP) of the Goethe-Institut
- Small or Large German Language Diploma of the Goethe-Institut
- Goethe-Zertifikat C2
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
- University entrance examination (Feststellungsprüfung) at a state Studienkolleg in Germany
If you hold one of these certificates, there is no need to apply for the DSH course. You may apply directly for a degree program at Paderborn University.
Further information on the application process is available on the pages of the International Office.
Apply for the DSH course
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