If my program in Germany is taught in German, what level of German proficiency is typically required, and what are some accepted certificates?

The requirement isn't one fixed number across Germany; it's set programme-by-programme, and the practical target most students should aim for is higher than the bare legal minimum.

The Range You'll Actually See

• Minimum baseline: DAAD states most German higher-education institutions require at least B2 for a German-taught programme.
• Common practical requirement: B2 to C1, depending on the university and subject, with C1 the safer target for programmes involving heavy lecture, presentation or academic-writing content.
• Some programmes accept B2 outright, so don't assume C1 is universally mandatory before checking the specific programme page.

Accepted Certificates and Their Typical Level

Why You Must Check Per Programme

uni-assist, the shared application portal many German universities use, explicitly advises checking each individual university, since accepted certificates and required levels vary between institutions and courses even within the same subject area.

This Information Is Also Available On

DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), uni-assist.

My Advice

If you're starting from zero German, plan the A1 to C1 progression as an 18-24 month project running alongside your final undergraduate year, not something you cram in a few months before applying. TestDaF is generally the most accessible exam to take from India, so it's a reasonable default unless your target university names a specific alternative.