Language Proficiency Tests

The DAAD Language Certificate is proof of English language skills in the areas of listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and written and oral expression.

The 30- to 45-minute test consists of:

• A 30-minute oral exam (interview)during which questions about a subject-related text must be answered, with 20 minutes of preparation time provided.
• A letter of motivation regarding your stay abroad. You will have to answer questions concerning this motivation letter during your interview.

The letter of motivation should contain the following:

• Reasons for your stay abroad
• A description of the organization of the project abroad
• Personal goals of the undertaking
• Subject-specific learning objectives

Registration: Registration for an exam appointment is done via university email through the foreign language coordinators. A screenshot of the online language test result must be attached. The DAAD Language Certificate form must be presented at the agreed appointment.

The test is free of charge. Please ensure you arrange an appointment well in advance of your application deadline for the stay abroad. As a guideline, allow for a processing period of at least 10 days.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an internationally recognized test for evaluating English language skills in higher education. It is considered one of the admission requirements at most English-speaking universities overseas, including for guest or exchange students. Good and timely preparation is required to achieve the minimum score.

At OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts, TOEFL preparation courses are offered at the Lemgo location. The TOEFL test itself is not taken at OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts but at one of the many TOEFL test centers across Germany, such as in Hannover.

Important Note: Preparation for the TOEFL test is very time-consuming. It is recommended to begin preparation at the latest one semester before departure.

The Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) is a globally recognized test for evaluating English language skills in a professional context. The TOEIC tests the ability to use English in professional situations, particularly in international work environments where English is the working language. Many companies use the TOEIC as a standard for assessing their employees' English skills, employing it as a professional tool for personnel evaluation and development.

The test questions are based on authentic examples of everyday professional situations. The TOEIC certificate enhances your application documents with clear evidence of your general practical job-related English proficiency. Depending on group or individual examinations and the corresponding ETS-certified test center, participation in the TOEIC test costs between €150 and €250.

Good preparation for the TOEIC is crucial to achieve the highest possible score. Therefore, we regularly offer comprehensive TOEIC preparation courses to optimally prepare you for the test. The TOEIC is offered in many test centers in Germany, including in Hannover and Bünde. With a sufficient number of participants, the test can also be taken at OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics.

Important Note: Thorough preparation for the TOEIC requires time and commitment. It is recommended to start preparation at least one semester before the planned test date to achieve the highest possible score.