TestDaF written expression

Master TestDaF Written Expression

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Kurze Antwort

TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) ist die häufigste Sprachprüfung für ein Studium in Deutschland. Du brauchst TDN 4 in allen vier Subtests (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen) für die Standard-Hochschulzulassung. Dauer: 3h 10min. Ergebnis: 3-4 Wochen (digital) bzw. 6-8 Wochen (Papier).

M

Margarita Votteler

TestDaF / DSH / Goethe / telc C1 Prüfende seit 2009

60 min
Exam duration
approx. 350 words (digital: 200 + 100–150)
Words
TDN 4
Target level
TDN 4 in all parts
To pass

Exam format: TestDaF writing

Digital: two separate 30-min tasks. Paper-based: one 60-min task with graph, argumentation and home-country reference.

1

Digital — Task 1: Write an argumentative text (30 min, min. 200 words) — take a position on a socially relevant topic

2

Digital — Task 2: Summarise a reading text + graph (30 min, approx. 100–150 words) — in your own words, no opinion

3

Paper-based: 1 combined task (60 min) — graph description + argumentation + home-country reference

TDN scoring levels

How your performance in TestDaF is graded

TDN 5
C1.1–C1.2

Excellent - Unrestricted university admission

TDN 4
B2.2–C1.1

Good - University admission at most universities

Recommended target for university admission
TDN 3
B2.1–B2.2

Satisfactory - Limited admission possible

Below TDN 3
< B2.1

Not passed - Retake exam

New from May 2026

Combined Certificate: Calculate your best result

Starting May 2026, you can combine your best partial results from multiple TestDaF exams. Plus: Which errors cost the most TDN points?

Evaluation criteria

Your text is evaluated using these standard criteria

1

Content Processing

40%

Completeness; digital: argumentation (Task 1) + summary of reading text & graph (Task 2). Paper: additionally home-country reference.

2

Text Effect & Structure

30%

Readability, argumentation structure, and structural elements (intro, transitions, conclusion)

3

Language Resources

30%

Coherence, connectors, sentence structure, vocabulary, grammar, and orthography

How GermanExam.pro helps you

AI-powered preparation for the TestDaF

Multi-Category Analysis

In-depth analysis across key exam dimensions: grammar, vocabulary, structure, content, coherence, and overall impression.

TDN scoring

Get an estimated TDN score based on publicly available criteria.

Concrete improvements

Detailed feedback with actionable suggestions to improve your text.

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Avoid common mistakes

These mistakes cost you valuable points

#1 Risk: Off-Topic = 0 Points

Our AI analyzes whether your text answers the prompt before you submit. You'll know immediately if you're on-topic.

Graph Description

No introduction with source and topicMissing comparisons between data pointsToo many unimportant details

Always start with source, topic, and time period. Focus on the most important trends.

Argumentation

No clear thesisArguments without examplesMissing counter-arguments

Formulate a clear position and support it with concrete examples.

Language Errors

Too simple sentence structuresVocabulary repetitionWrong connectors

Use complex subordinate clauses and varied connectors like 'hingegen', 'darüber hinaus'.

Frequently asked questions about TestDaF writing

How many words do I need to write?

Digital: approx. 350 words (Task 1: min. 200, Task 2: 100–150). Paper-based: approx. 300 words in one task.

Can I use a dictionary?

No, no aids are allowed in the TestDaF. That's why it's important to practice academic vocabulary beforehand.

How often can I retake the TestDaF?

You can retake the TestDaF as many times as you like. There is no waiting period between exams.

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