
Your Gateway to Top German Universities Starts Here
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Germany is one of the countries most preferred by students from Dubai due to many factors, including a quality education system, low cost of tuition, and exposure to a rich cultural life. In fact, Germany has more than 400,000 international students; among them, about 20% are from countries which are not part of Europe, including the UAE. Dubai students interested in studying in Germany have to go through a number of examinations which test their language and academic ability.
However, more than getting into these selective schools is required, one has to excel academically and pass the German language tests and entrance examinations. In this guide, we shall discuss the key tests that Dubai students have to sit for to pursue education in the best German universities.
The German Academic Appeal for Dubai Students
Germany is one of the world's most preferred study destinations, and it has a large number of international students, including those from Dubai. The country has more than 400 universities and colleges, most of which are among the best globally. Students from Dubai can find in Germany a great combination of quality education and research possibilities, as well as memorable experiences for a relatively low cost compared to other countries of choice.
This is because of the following reasons, amongst which is the cost of studying in Germany, which is quite affordable to Dubai students. This is different from most Western countries, where most public universities do not have any tuition fees for their students, including international students.
That is why Germany can be considered a very promising country for those who want to get a great education without having to pay an arm and a leg for it. For instance, a survey taken not long ago indicated that about 70% of the international students in Germany and other countries, including the UAE, opted to study in the country because they found the education system to be relatively cheap.
German Language Proficiency
Students of Dubai interested in studying in Germany must learn German to get admission. Some of the programs in Germany are delivered in English, although the student will be expected to have a good command of German, especially for undergraduate and many postgraduate courses.
TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache), which all the universities in Germany recognise, assesses the language ability of the candidates at the B2 to C1 level of the CEFR. A student has to secure a minimum of 4 out of 5 in each of the sections in order to get into most of the programs.
The DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang), however, is an examination taken directly from German universities and is usually necessary for certain courses, especially undergraduate ones. This one is similar to TestDaF but may have a rather more demanding speaking part, so it is advisable to practise hard.
Summary Box
Test | Description |
TestDaF | Recognised by all German universities, assesses language ability at B2 to C1 levels of the CEFR. Requires a minimum score of 4 out of 5 in each section for admission to most programs. |
DSH | Conducted by German universities, usually required for specific undergraduate courses. Similar to TestDaF but includes a more demanding speaking component. Thorough preparation is advised. |
Academic Qualification Recognition
Before a student from Dubai can enrol in a course to study in German, they have to have their academic credentials assessed to determine whether their qualifications are compatible with the German system. This process is important as it defines a student's chances of getting enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
To access the undergraduate level of education, one has to have the German Abitur, which is the certification that is obtained at the end of secondary education in Germany. There are certain requirements that students from Dubai who have their IB or a UAE high school diploma must check to see if they meet the German Abitur standard. This commonly entails assessing the curriculum, the number of subjects taken, and the grades received at the end of the course. As a rule, German universities assume that the applicants have done mathematics, natural sciences and a language with good results.
If there is a difference between the Dubai high school diploma and the Abitur requirements, then the student may have to enrol in a Studienkolleg, which is a one-semester course that will prepare the student for the German system. This course ends with a test called Feststellungsprüfung, and if the student is successful in this assessment, they can apply for a bachelors program in Germany.
Admission Tests For Certain Courses
Students who are from Dubai and are interested in taking up certain courses in Germany, such as medicine, engineering, and art, then have to take an entrance examination. These exams help to evaluate the specific competencies and knowledge that are necessary for these competitive programs and thus allow the candidates to be ready for the high level of academic demands in these programs.
1. TMS (Test für Medizinische Studiengänge) – For Medicine:
The TMS is an entrance examination which is used by the majority of German universities as a requirement for medical faculties. It assesses several aspects of thinking, such as the ability to solve problems, remember, visualise the spatial, and understand written text, which are very relevant in medical study.
The TMS is a test that comprises 8 sections, each section having different skills that one has to develop as a medical student, for instance, pattern recognition, medical and scientific comprehension, as well as quantitative problem-solving. The test is paper-based and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.
2. APS (Academic Performance System) – For Engineering and Technical Programs:
APS is an entrance examination that is compulsory for students from certain countries, such as Dubai, for the engineering and technical courses in German universities. This analysis also checks the academic qualifications of the applicant for these fields so that they meet the required standard.
3. Art and Design Programs – Portfolio and Entrance Exams:
Art, design, and architecture are some of the fields that students who wish to study in German universities may be required to present their portfolios. Besides, some programs involve students in a practical entrance examination of the portfolio in addition to the portfolio.
The students of Dubai should work towards preparing a portfolio which is both broad and targeted to meet the requirements of the intended university. Attending local art workshops, getting guidance from experts, and doing other exercises that are similar to those in the entrance exam are highly beneficial to them.
4. GMAT/GRE – For Business and Management Programs:
The GMAT or the GRE is not always required. Still, it is usually advised for students, especially when they are applying for an MBA or any business-related programs in Germany’s top-ranked universities.
Summary Box: Admission Tests for Certain Courses
Test | Description |
TMS | Test for Medical Studies. Evaluates cognitive abilities such as problem-solving and memory, with a focus on skills needed for medical studies. Includes 8 sections and requires thorough preparation due to its competitive nature. |
APS | Academic Performance System. Mandatory for students from Dubai to apply to engineering and technical programs. Involves verification of academic records and may include interviews or additional tests. |
Art and Design Portfolios | For art and design programs, applicants must submit a portfolio showcasing their work. Some programs also require practical entrance exams to assess creative skills. |
GMAT/GRE | Recommended for business-related programs. GMAT focuses on analytical writing and reasoning, while the GRE covers verbal and quantitative skills. Preparation through courses and practice tests is beneficial. |
Visa Application and Other Conditions
Once the student has been admitted to any of the German universities, the student has to apply for a visa and fulfil other necessities to pursue his studies in Germany.
Student Visa Process: Go to the German consulate in Dubai and apply for German student visa type D to study in Germany. These include an admission letter, Proof of financial resources (approximately €11,000), Health insurance, and a Passport. Filing the paperwork may be time-consuming and may take several weeks, so it is advisable to start as soon as possible.
Financial Proof: Apply for a Blocked Account in Germany to prove that you have enough money to pay for your living costs while in the country.
Health Insurance: It is obligatory to have an insurance package for medical services. You can get it from a German provider, or you can check this link for more information on international coverage.
Accommodation and Registration: When you get there, you will need to report to the local authorities (Anmeldung) and show where you will be staying. Universities sometimes provide help in this regard through on-campus accommodation or off-campus.
How Admissiongyan Can Help You
Ready to take the next step toward your academic journey in Germany? Contact Admission Gyan today, and let us guide you every step of the way!
Personalised Guidance: Receive tailored advice on selecting the best German universities and programs that align with your academic and career aspirations.
Visa Assistance: Let us handle the complexities of your student visa application, ensuring all documents are properly prepared and submitted on time.
Exam Preparation: Benefit from expert coaching and resources for critical entrance exams like TestDaF, TMS, and others to enhance your chances of success.
Qualification Recognition: We simplify the process of verifying your academic credentials, ensuring they meet German university standards for a smooth application.
Accommodation and On-Arrival Support: Get comprehensive assistance in finding accommodation and completing local registration, making your transition to Germany effortless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the most important exams for studying in Germany as a student from Dubai?
A: Key exams include German language proficiency tests like TestDaF or DSH and specific entrance exams like TMS for medical programs or portfolio assessments for art and design courses.
Q2. How long does the student visa application process take for Germany?
A: The student visa process typically takes several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application at least three months before your intended travel date.
Q3. Do I need health insurance to study in Germany?
A: Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all students. You can either obtain it from a German provider or verify if your existing international insurance meets German requirements.
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