Are there any specific language requirements or exams for European countries for masters programs for a Master's?
Yes, English taught European master's programs typically require IELTS around 6.5 to 7.0 or TOEFL around 90 to 100, unless you hold a majority English speaking passport or an MOI letter. Local language programs need exams like TestDaF or DSH in Germany, DELF/DALF in France, or DELE in Spain.
You will face strict language requirements for a European master's, but the exact exams depend entirely on whether your chosen programme is taught in English or the local national language. Thousands of programmes across continental Europe run entirely in English, so you do not always need to know the local language, but you must still prove your proficiency.
Exams You May Need By Programme Type
| Programme Type | Accepted Exams And Typical Scores |
|---|---|
| English Taught Programmes | IELTS Academic 6.5 to 7.0, TOEFL iBT 90 to 100, Cambridge C1/C2, or PTE/Duolingo where accepted |
| German Taught Programmes | DSH-2/DSH-3, TestDaF TDN 4, or Goethe-Zertifikat C1/C2 |
| French Taught Programmes | DELF/DALF, usually B2 or C1 |
| Spanish or Italian Programmes | DELE (Spain) or CELI/CILS (Italy), usually B2 or C1 |
Exemptions And Country Specific Nuances
You are typically exempt from an English exam if you hold a passport from a majority English speaking country, or if your previous Bachelor's degree was taught entirely in English, provided you can get an official Medium of Instruction letter from your university. The Netherlands and Scandinavian countries offer an especially high number of English taught master's degrees with virtually no local language requirement for admission, while Germany and France offer many English taught options too, though local language skills help significantly with daily life and local employment.
My Advice
Shortlist 3 to 4 specific master's programmes early and check their admission or eligibility pages directly, since exact minimum scores and accepted tests vary by institution. Elite universities in cities like Amsterdam, Paris or Munich often demand higher individual section scores than the general minimums.
Do you even need IELTS?
Which test, what band, or whether you can skip it. Sorted in one free session.
More IELTS questions
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- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- Would you suggest me to give IELTS first before starting the application process in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
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- Is it possible to get an IELTS exemption if my transcript states that my medium of instruction was English?
- Will you help with the IELTS application process and provide guidance on the required documents and deposits?
- Do I need an IELTS scorecard for the APS certificate required for Germany university applications?