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What is TestAS Exam: Syllabus, Pattern, Dates, Fee & Preparation

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Fiona
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The TestAS (Test for Academic Studies) is a standardized aptitude test for international students applying to German universities.

In this guide, you will understand each part of the TestAS, learn how to choose the right module, and get tips to prepare effectively for the best results.

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What is the TestAS Exam?

The TestAS exam is an aptitude test required for admission to German universities. It consists of a core section and subject-specific modules for various fields of study.

Aspect

Details

Full Name

Test for Academic Studies (TestAS)

Purpose

Measures skills needed for academic success in German universities, such as problem-solving, reasoning, and understanding structures

Who Should Take It?

International students applying to undergraduate programs in Germany

When to Apply?

Registration opens months before the exam; check the official site:

Exam Format

Paper-based and digital TestAS

Language Options

English or German (chosen at registration)

Structure

2 parts: Core Test + Subject-Specific Module

Break Time

30 minutes

Application Fee

€150 (₹15485)

Score Range

0 to 200 (Scores are converted to percentiles for universities)

Number of Attempts

As many times as you want to appear

Why You Should Take the TestAS Exam?

The TestAS exam helps you show your true skills to German universities.

  • Better Chance of Admission: A good TestAS score makes it easier for universities to accept you.
  • Clear Skill Check: The test shows your real abilities in thinking, solving problems, and understanding patterns.
  • Scholarship Opportunities: Some universities and programs use TestAS scores to give scholarships in Germany.
  • Fair Comparison: Your results let universities compare you with other students in a standard way.
  • Equal Opportunity: The test helps universities pick students fairly, no matter where you studied before.

TestAS Exam Pattern 2025

The TestAS exam has two main parts: one is the Core Test and the second is the Subject-Specific Module. You must complete the Core Test first; you cannot skip any question, thinking you will visit it back:

Core Test

The Core Test is designed to evaluate your general academic abilities that are important across all study disciplines:

Subtest

Number of Tasks

Duration

Solving Quantitative Problems

22

45 min

Inferring Relationships

22

10 min

Completing Patterns

22

20 min (+5 min instruction reading)

Continuing Numerical Series

22

25 min (+5 min instruction reading)

Total

88

110 min

Subject-Specific Module

The Subject-Specific Module assesses your knowledge and skills relevant to your chosen field of study:

Module

Number of Subtests

Total Time

Humanities, Cultural Studies & Social Sciences

3

150 min

Engineering

3

150 min

Mathematics, Computer Science & Natural Sciences

2

145 min

Economics

2

150 min

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TestAS Exam Syllabus 2025

The syllabus for TestAS reflects the skills assessed in both parts of the exam. While the Core Test evaluates general reasoning and problem-solving abilities, the Subject-Specific Module targets knowledge relevant to your field.

Core Test

Measures skills needed in all study areas. Four subtests with multiple-choice questions:

  • Solving Quantitative Problems: Basic arithmetic, algebra, and applied math
  • Inferring Relationships: Logical reasoning and identifying patterns in information
  • Completing Patterns: Visual and abstract pattern recognition
  • Continuing Numerical Series: Numerical reasoning and sequence completion

Subject-Specific Module

Check the skills needed in your chosen field. The modules and their structure:

  • Humanities, Cultural Studies & Social Sciences: Reading comprehension, analyzing text-based information, critical thinking
  • Engineering: Technical problem-solving, understanding mechanical or electrical concepts, applying engineering principles
  • Mathematics, Computer Science & Natural Sciences: Mathematical reasoning, computer science logic, scientific problem-solving
  • Economics: Interpreting economic data, applying economic theories, quantitative and qualitative analysis

TestAS Exam Fees 2025

The TestAS exam has a standard registration fee that you must pay to confirm your test slot: 

  • The registration fee is €150 (₹15,485) for both paper-based and digital formats.
  • Payment is made online through the TestAS portal using debit/credit cards or other accepted payment methods.
  • The fee is non-refundable, so make sure your test date and center are correct before paying.

TestAS Exam Dates 2025

Below are the exam dates, along with result dates as well as application deadlines, taken from the website. Please make sure you are cross-checking everything before you apply for the exam:

Exam Date

Application Deadline

Results Date

November 20, 2025

Jan 6, 2025 to 10, November 2025

December 11, 2025

February 24, 2026

Sept 1, 2025 to Jan 19, 2026

March 24, 2026

March 19, 2026

Nov 2, 2025 to March 7, 2026

April 9, 2026

April 25, 2026

Jan 5, 2026 to March 13, 2026

May 30, 2026

June 9, 2026

Jan 5, 2026 to May 29, 2026

June 30, 2026

October 24, 2026

Jan 5, 2026 to Sept 18, 2026

Nov 21, 2026

November 26, 2026

Jan 5, 2026 to Nov 16, 2026

Dec 17, 2026

TestAS Eligibility Criteria 2025

To be eligible to sit for TestAS if you want to study in Germany, you must meet a few key requirements to take it:

  • Secondary School Status: You should be in your final year of secondary school or have recently finished it.
  • Recognised School Certificate: You need a certificate that Germany accepts, like the Abitur or an equivalent from your country.
  • Undergraduate Applicants: The test is mainly for students applying for bachelor’s programs in German universities.
  • Exemptions: If you have passed certain Indian entrance exams like J Main or J Advanced, you might not need to take the TestAS. (Note: Please still check with the university you are applying to.)
  • Age Limit: There is no age limit, but most students are between 17 and 25 years old.
  • Language Choice: You can take the test in German or English, depending on your comfort level.

How to Register for the TestAS Exam?

To register, first check the universities’ requirements and then select a test date. After that, you can complete the full registration online.

Below are all the major and minor steps to register for the TestAS exam:

Step 1: Verify University Requirements

Check the websites of the German universities you want to apply to. Make sure they require the TestAS and that it matches your course of study.

Step 2: Choose a Test Date and Center

Visit the official TestAS website to pick a date and location that works best for you.

Step 3: Register Online

Fill out the online registration form with your personal details. Choose the test format and the core and subject-specific modules for your field.

Step 4: Create an Account and Book

You will get a verification email with login details after registration. Use it to book your test date and confirm your test center.

Step 5: Pay the Fee

Pay the registration fee of €150 (₹15485) to complete your enrollment. The amount is shown during registration.

TestAS Scoring and Results 2025

The TestAS exam gives you a score to show your performance and compare with other students:

  • The TestAS score range for digital exams is 0 to 200, while the paper-based standard score is 70 to 130.
  • The average performance range is 50 to 150 on the digital TestAS, with 100 as the center.
  • Scores above 150 indicate above-average performance. 
  • Only the top 2% reach a perfect score of 200.
  • Students can retake the exam if needed, usually after a minimum gap of a few months, depending on registration availability.

Score Conversion for TestAS

Digital TestAS scores can be converted to paper-based standard scores for comparison:

Paper-Based TestAS (Standard Score)

Digital TestAS Score

70 to 79

0 to 45

80 to 89

50 to 95

90 to 99

100 to 145

100 to 109

150 to 195

110 to 130

200

Paper-Based vs Digital TestAS

The TestAS exam is available in two formats: paper-based and digital. The main difference is how you take the test, but the content, scoring, and difficulty are largely similar:

Aspect

Paper-Based TestAS

Digital TestAS

Exam Language

German or English

German or English

Test Location

Licensed G.A.S.T centres

Licensed TestAS centres on computers

Answer Method

Pen and paper

Computer or tablet; (You will be provided with a paper for mathematical equations)

Navigation

Can flip pages and change answers

Cannot go back once answers are submitted

Core Module Subtests

  • Solving Quantitative Problems
  • Inferring Relations
  • Completing Patterns
  • Continuing Numerical Series
  • Figure Sequences
  • Mathematical Equations
  • Latin Squares (20 items each)

Subject Module Structure

2 to 3 groups of tasks

10 to 15 testlets, each with 4 to 8 questions

Breaks

30 minutes after Core Test

2 micro-breaks during Core Test (30 minutes after Core Module)

Scoring

Standard score (70 to 130) + percentile rank

TestAS score (0 to 400) + percentile rank

Difficulty

Aptitude-level, not subject-specific

Same as paper-based (Requires strong time management)

TestAS Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing well and staying focused on exam day can make a big difference in your TestAS performance. 

Here are some key tips:

  • Understand the Test Format: Know the Core and Subject Module structure so you aren’t surprised on test day.
  • Use Official Practice Materials: Solve sample questions and mock tests from the TestAS website to get familiar with the style of questions.
  • Spot Your Weak Areas: Take practice tests to identify topics where you struggle and spend extra time on them.
  • Practice Time Management: Work on completing questions within set time limits to avoid running out of time.
  • Focus on Your Module: Study specifically for the subject module relevant to your chosen field (e.g., Engineering, Humanities).
  • Strengthen Core Skills: Improve logical reasoning, basic math, and visual pattern analysis for the Core Test.
  • Brush Up Language Skills: Make sure your reading and comprehension in German or English is solid.
  • Read Carefully: Take time to understand each question; don’t skim.
  • Answer Everything: No marks are deducted for wrong answers, so guess if unsure.
  • Tackle Easy Questions First: This builds confidence and saves time for harder questions (but in the same section).
  • Eliminate Wrong Options: Narrowing down choices increases your chances of a correct answer.
  • Bring Essentials: Carry a valid ID (same ID you submitted while registration) and required stationery to the exam center.

From the Desk of СÓÅÊÓÆµ

Many students preparing for the TestAS often feel lost figuring out where to start when balancing Core Test practice with Subject Modules. A common struggle is managing time effectively while trying to cover all question types without getting stuck on tricky problems. Planning short, focused study sessions and practicing with sample questions can help reduce stress and boost confidence.

can support students not just with exam preparation like GRE, GMAT, and IELTS. It helps you track progress, understand exam patterns, and stay organized with personalized guidance, prep material, and expert tips.

Frequently Asked Questions on TestAS Exam

What is the TestAS exam?

Is TestAS mandatory for Germany?

What is the fee of the TestAS exam in India?

How do I prepare for TestAS?

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