IELTS Score for Germany 2026-27: TU9 & Visa Guide 

You don’t need German fluency to access Germany’s best technical degrees. But you do need a perfect strategy for your IELTS score.

Germany is the leading destination for international students seeking world-class, near-zero tuition and exceptional career prospects. With thousands of International Degree Programs (IDPs) offered entirely in English, the misconception that you must speak German is the easiest hurdle to clear.

The real challenge is meeting the correct IELTS score requirement.The overall average IELTS score required for direct university admission in Germany is typically 6.5 band. Whether you are aiming for a highly competitive Master’s degree at a TU9 university (the alliance of leading Technical Universities) or a specialised Bachelor’s program, the specific English-language proficiency requirements are non-negotiable.

This guide provides a clear breakdown of the IELTS score for Germany, including:

• The safe score for your Student Visa (Visa D).
• The competitive scores needed for TU9 and top public universities.
• How to leverage the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as an alternative waiver.

The short answer is: Yes, the IELTS exam is required for English-taught programs.

Since Germany is a non-English-speaking nation, universities require standardised, external proof that you can comprehend complex academic lectures and write research papers in English. This requirement applies exclusively to International Degree Programs (IDPs) that use English as their Medium of Instruction (MOI).

The choice of test (IELTS, TOEFL, or an alternative) and the required score depends entirely on the specific university program you select.

• German-Taught Programs: Require certified proof of German proficiency (e.g., TestDaF or DSH).
• English-Taught Programs: Require English proficiency proof (e.g., IELTS) or an accepted waiver, such as the Medium of Instruction certificate.

Since Germany is a non-English-speaking nation, its universities require standardised, external proof that you can comprehend complex academic lectures and write research papers in English. This requirement applies exclusively to International Degree Programs (IDPs) that use English as their Medium of Instruction (MOI). The choice of test (IELTS, TOEFL, or an alternative) and the required score depends entirely on your specific university program.

To help you understand exactly what documentation you need, the table below outlines the accepted language requirements based on the course’s MOI:

Note: Even if your course is 100% in English, learning German up to A1 or A2 level is highly recommended. It significantly improves your chances of finding part-time jobs and integrating into German society.

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Public universities, especially the TU9 group (Germany’s top Technical Universities), are globally competitive and heavily research-focused. As a result, their English-language expectations are strict. For most STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs at TU9 universities, an IELTS score of 6.5 is the standard minimum, while some high-demand or research-intensive programs may require a 7.0 band to be considered.

This higher benchmark ensures students are academically prepared for fast-paced lectures, complex coursework, and rigorous project work.

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These 2026 estimates reflect how top universities in Germany typically assess IELTS scores, with stricter sectional expectations for competitive or language-intensive programs.

Note: Requirements can vary by department. A Master’s in Mechanical Engineering might accept a 6.5, while a Master’s in English Studies at the same university might require a 7.5.

Many students assume a university offer is enough, but a low IELTS score for Germany Student Visa can still lead to questions during visa review. For Indian applicants, the German Embassy generally follows the IELTS requirement mentioned in the admission letter, yet borderline scores may attract scrutiny.

• The Embassy usually accepts the IELTS score approved by the university
  
• Borderline IELTS scores for Germany Student Visa may raise concerns
  
• There is no fixed Embassy cutoff, but assessment is case-specific
  
• A 6.0 overall IELTS score is widely considered the minimum IELTS score for Germany Student Visa (Visa D).

Tip: Even if a university accepts a lower band, targeting 6.0 reduces visa risk.

Visa vs. University Benchmarks

Important Note: While the embassy accepts the score stated in your admission letter, a score of 6.0 overall is widely recommended as the “safe” minimum for a standard student visa application for Master’s programs.

The IELTS requirement for Germany depends on your level of study. Postgraduate programs demand a higher level of academic English proficiency than undergraduate courses.

Universities are often more lenient for undergraduate admissions, because students may attend a Studienkolleg first.

Top German MBA programs, like ESMT Berlin and Mannheim Business School, prioritise strong English communication skills, as networking, teamwork, and employability are central to their curriculum.

• Typical Overall IELTS Score: 7.0
• Focus Areas: Speaking and Writing are especially important because admissions often involve interviews, presentations, and case discussions. Strong scores here demonstrate your ability to actively participate in class, lead group projects, and communicate professionally.

Even if your overall IELTS score meets the minimum, underperforming in Speaking or Writing can affect admission chances. Aim for high IELTS score for Germany MBA programs to ensure smooth acceptance and excel in interactive, communication-focused courses.

If you are looking for funding, your IELTS score for Germany plays a role beyond just admission. The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers numerous scholarships to Indian students.

• Minimum Requirement: While a higher IELTS score can certainly strengthen your scholarship application, it’s recommended to check the latest DAAD scholarship guidelines or contact them directly to confirm the minimum IELTS score requirement, as it may be subject to change.
• Competitive Edge: Since these scholarships are merit-based, a higher English score (6.5 or 7.0) strengthens your profile significantly against other applicants.

Is the IELTS for Germany requirement absolute? Not always. While IELTS Academic is the gold standard, there are other alternatives.

This is a game-changer for many Indian students. Some German universities may waive the IELTS requirement if you can prove your previous education was conducted entirely in English.

• What is it? An official letter from your college registrar stating, “The Medium of Instruction for this student was English.”
• Who accepts it? Select universities, including the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Heidelberg University (for specific programs), may accept this.

Note: Always email the admissions office to confirm this before you skip the IELTS test.

If you prefer a different testing format, most German universities accept the following:

Your IELTS score for Germany is valid for two years and must be current at the time of application. Learn how to submit scores via Uni-Assist or university portals to ensure smooth verification and avoid delays in your admission process.

Your IELTS score is valid for two years from the date of the test.

Rule: The score must be valid at the time of application. If your score expires before the university processes your application, you may be asked to retake it.

Most Indian students apply to German universities via the Uni-Assist portal.

• Via Uni-Assist: You upload a scanned copy of your Test Report Form (TRF). Uni-Assist verifies it online using your TRF number and forwards the verification to all universities you apply to.
• Direct Application: Some universities (like TUM) have their own portals where you upload the PDF and provide the TRF number for verification.

Missing your target score is common. If you aimed for 7.0 but scored 5.5 or 6.0, it does not end your Germany plans. It simply requires a more strategic approach based on your target university and intake.

Practical options to consider

• IELTS One Skill Retake: Check if your test center and chosen university accept the “One Skill Retake.” This allows you to redo just one section (e.g., Writing) without retaking the whole exam.
• Target Private Universities: Institutions like SRH, IU, or GISMA are often more flexible with IELTS requirements for Germany, accepting 5.5 or 6.0 for many programs.
• Check Conditional Offers: Some universities may offer admission on the condition that you take a preparatory English course upon arrival.
• Retake the Test: If you are aiming for a public university (TU9), retaking the test to jump from a 6.0 to a 6.5 is often the best investment of your time. It opens access to roughly 80% more programs.

Understanding the IELTS score for Germany is critical for both university admission and a smooth student visa process. With requirements ranging from 6.0 for bachelor’s to 7.0+ for master’s and MBA programs, focusing on overall and sectional scores, especially Speaking and Writing can make a big difference.

Ensure your score is valid and correctly submitted via Uni-Assist or the university portal, and verify program-specific requirements on official university pages.

If you want structured guidance on setting the right target score, improving weak sections, or aligning your IELTS plan with German university and visa expectations, LeapScholar’s IELTS experts can help you build a focused preparation strategy that fits your timeline and intake.