Language exams for studying abroad: which certificate to take

Most universities that teach in a language you did not grow up speaking will ask for proof. The exam you need depends on the language, the country and the university itself. Here are the certificates most often used for study, by language.

Updated · 5 min read

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16Word: the free English level test — A1 to B2 in about 8 minutes, no account needed

Start with the admissions page

Before you pick an exam, go to the page for your exact programme. It should name the tests accepted and the result required. Write both down. If two programmes you like ask for different results, plan for the higher one.

English

ExamResultsValidity
IELTSBand 0–9Two years is the recommended limit
TOEFL iBTScore 1–6Two years
PTE AcademicScore 10–90Two years
Cambridge EnglishScale 120–230Not stated on the pages we read

Read the full comparison in IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge.

French

The DELF and DALF are diplomas that do not expire. The TCF and TEF are valid for two years. See DELF, TCF or TEF.

German

TestDaF is built for university applicants, and the certificate does not expire. The Goethe-Zertifikat and telc Deutsch are also often used. See Goethe, TestDaF or telc.

Chinese, Japanese and Korean

The HSK, JLPT and TOPIK are all often used for study. HSK and TOPIK results are valid for two years, while the JLPT information we read does not state a limit.

Timing your application

  1. List your deadlines and the results they call for.
  2. Take a free level test in the language you need, for example English, French or German.
  3. Work out how many months you need to close the gap.
  4. Book your exam early enough to allow a second attempt.
  5. Check how long the result stays valid. Our validity guide lists each exam.

Prepare with a personal path

Choose "certificate" as your goal, and your path sets out what to learn at your level.

Keep exploring

Every exam below has its own preparation page on 16Word.

The other language exams

More guides on language exams

Related guides and free level tests

Language exams for study: frequently asked questions

Which English exam do universities prefer?

Each university decides. Many accept several, so read the admissions page for your programme.

Is there a language exam that does not expire?

Among those listed here, the DELF, DALF and TestDaF do not expire. See our validity guide.

When should I take the exam?

Early enough to take it a second time before your deadline, and late enough that the result is still valid.

Do I need a language exam if I studied in that language before?

Some universities make exceptions. Ask the admissions office.

Can a 16Word certificate replace these exams?

No. Only official exams count for university admission.

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