Language Tests for a Scholarship: IELTS, TOEFL, TCF, DELF, TestDaF
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Almost all international scholarships ask for proof of proficiency in the language of instruction. Choosing the right test at the right time avoids months of delay. Each programme specifies the accepted certifications and the minimum level: check them before registering.
English: IELTS and TOEFL
IELTS Academic is accepted throughout the United Kingdom and in many countries; it has four parts (listening, reading, writing, speaking) scored from 1 to 9. TOEFL iBT, more common in the United States, is scored out of 120. Some programmes require an overall score and a minimum score per skill. Aim for at least half a point above the required minimum. Results are generally valid for about two years.
French: TCF, DELF, DALF
For France, Belgium or French-speaking Canada, the DELF/DALF diplomas (valid for life) or the TCF (result valid for two years) certify your level. Master's programmes generally require B2, sometimes C1. Candidates from a curriculum taught entirely in French may, depending on the institution, be exempt.
German: TestDaF, DSH, Goethe
For programmes taught in German, TestDaF or DSH is required, sometimes a Goethe certificate. For master's programmes in English, an English test is enough, but basic German remains useful for daily life.
Other languages
- Spanish: DELE (level B2 is commonly required).
- Italian: CILS, CELI or PLIDA.
- Chinese: HSK, with the level depending on the discipline.
- Japanese: JLPT for some MEXT scholarships.
- Turkish, Korean: tests specific to the programmes, or a language year included in the scholarship.
Organising your preparation
- Take a mock test to measure your starting level.
- Prepare the exam formats, not just the language: time management, question types.
- Book the exam date several weeks ahead and plan a resit session.
- Keep the certificates: you will sometimes have to attach them to the file or have them sent directly.
Common mistakes
- Taking a test that the scholarship does not accept.
- Getting a good overall score but a sub-score that is too low.
- Waiting until the last moment: exam centres are full before the deadlines.