When Are TestDaF Results Published? Waiting Times and Next Steps
Last updated: July 2026 · 6 min read
Short answer: digital TestDaF results are typically published about 4 weeks after the exam, paper-based results after about 6 weeks. Exact dates vary by exam sitting and are announced by the TestDaF Institute — always verify via the official channel.
How to Check Your Results
- Log in to the participant portal at testdaf.de (the account you registered with).
- Once published, you see the TDN grade for each of the four sections.
- The printed certificate (Zeugnis) is sent later via your test centre; the digital exam also offers a digital certificate.
The certificate lists a separate TDN grade per section (TDN 3, 4 or 5) — there is no total or average score. Universities look at each section individually. What the levels mean is explained in our TDN levels guide.
What to Do While Waiting
- If the result is sufficient: university application, visa process and academic life in Germany are ahead — you need to maintain your level.
- If it isn't: the next sitting is usually 6-10 weeks away. Candidates who keep practising start with a 4-6 week head start. See the retake strategy guide.
Roadmap by Outcome
| Outcome | Meaning | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| 4×TDN 4 or higher | Sufficient for most universities | uni-assist / direct application |
| Mixed (e.g. 3-4-4-4) | May suffice depending on programme | Check your target university's requirement |
| One section below TDN 3 | No grade issued for that section | Targeted retake preparation |
Note: some universities accept flexible requirements such as "16 TDN points in total" or "at most one section with TDN 3". Always read your target programme's language requirement verbatim before applying.
Keep Your Level While You Wait
With 20 minutes of daily practice on Zertifly you keep all four skills warm. If the result falls short, AI analysis shows exactly which skill has how much of a gap — so you start the retake plan immediately, with data.
Common Questions
- Can I appeal the result? Yes, a re-evaluation (Nachprüfung) can be requested for a fee; details are on the official site.
- How long is the certificate valid? Indefinitely, although some universities may ask for a recent certificate.
- How many times can I take the exam? As many times as you like.
Conclusion
Don't spend the waiting period passively: in both scenarios the winner is the candidate who keeps practising. Once your result arrives, follow the roadmap above to decide the next step.
