Language Skills

In general, proof of proficiency in the language of the host country or language of instruction is required for admission to host universities as well as for applications for scholarships - not at least in order to be able to follow courses and cope with everyday life. Which language test is required as proof for the stay varies from university to university. Information on this can usually be found on the websites of the universities or can be requested from the regional coordinators.

Language courses at Leibniz University - UNIcert

It is recommended that you acquire language skills in the national language and/or the language of instruction as early as possible. The Leibniz Language Center (LLC) at Leibniz Universität Hannover offers the opportunity to prepare yourself linguistically in good time.

Leibniz University Hannover is accredited for UNIcert®, an action-oriented training and certification system for foreign languages at German universities under the auspices of the Working Group of Language Centers (AKS). The Leibniz Language Centre (LLC) currently offers UNIcert® courses and certifications in 11 foreign languages at 22 levels, which are aligned with the university's focus regions.

External language courses

Alternatively, language courses from other providers such as adult education centers or educational associations are also an option. You can find a list of other language schools here:

Language learning apps

There is also the option of acquiring initial language skills via language learning apps. Although proof must still be provided officially, learning via apps can be more flexible.

Language certificates via the DAAD test

To apply for a scholarship abroad, e.g. with the DAAD or HI, you must also provide proof of knowledge of the language of the country or language of instruction. The so-called DAAD language certificate, which can be acquired at the Leibniz Language Center (LLC) , is often sufficient for this purpose.

Language certificates via the TOEFL test

The best-known language certificate/test is the TOEFL® test (Test of English as a Foreign Language). This is often required for studying in the USA, but is also recognized at all other English-speaking universities. The TOEFL® test can be taken at LUH depending on the date. It tests reading, writing, listening and speaking. All information on the TOEFL® test, the costs and registration forms can be found in the first two link boxes.

ETS has also expanded the preparation program. The Leibniz Language Centre (LLC) also offers test participants, or those who have registered on the portal, the so-called TestReady. You can find out more about this in the third link box.

Further language tests

In addition to the DAAD language certificate and the TOEFL® test, there are numerous other language tests, depending on the destination country and university. The IELTS tests English, DELF/DALF French and D.E.L.E. Spanish. These tests are an alternative, especially for non-English-speaking countries, and comprehensively assess reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.