Exams and certifications
DSD I (Deutsches Sprachdiplom I)
The German Language Certificate of the Education Ministers Conference (KMK)
DSD I (Level A2/B1, age 14-16): The DSD I-certificate is a proof of German language skills on the B1 level, which is defined as “autonomous language user” according to the Common European Framework of Reference of Language. The certificate allows students to apply to a “Studienkolleg” in German speaking countries. The Studienkolleg is a public educational institution in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for students whose secondary school certificate is not recognized as equivalent to the Abitur.
After passing the DSD I exam, students can apply for the Seal of Biliteracy at their local high school in Illinois. Passing the final exam will provide the student (14 and older) with the only certificate required for entry to the Studienkolleg in preparation for attending a university in Germany, Switzerland, or Austria.
The language skill level is standardized as level B1 on the CEFR.
DSD 2 (Deutsches Sprachdiplom II)
The German Language Certificate of the Education Ministers Conference (KMK)
DSD II (Level B2/C1, age 16-18): The DSD II-certificate is a proof of German language skills on the level of C1, which is defined as “proficient language user” according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The DSD II-certificate is considered proof that the graduates have reached a language level in German required for direct admission at a university in Germany.
In order to start studying in Germany, students may need to fulfill additional requirements beyond language competencies.
This exam is only offered in cooperation with our partner school Dank-Haus/Kinderschule in Chicago.
Internationale Vergleichsarbeit (IVA) CEFR levels A1 and A2
ZfA (Central Agency for the Schools Abroad of the Federal Office of Administration)
IVA 1: children seven years of age and older, provide proof of German language proficiency at the A1 level
IVA 2: students 12 years of age and older, provide proof of German language proficiency at the A2 level
Both in preparation of the B1 level.
AATG — Level 2-4
American Association of Teachers of German
National German High School Exams sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) — level 1-4. We offer our students the opportunity to participate in the National German Exams for high school students sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG). Students who pass the level 2, 3, and 4 exams can receive credit at their high school.
Congratulations to our recent AATG Level 2-4 students in 2022.