The TestDaf is a standardised test that allows learners of German to have their knowledge of the language assessed.

The assessment is given as a numerical value called the TDN – Test DaF Niveau. The TDN scale goes from 1 to 5.

Some organisations may require applicants to show proof of having taken a TestDaf test as opposed to other levels that we have talked about during this month.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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ZDj stands for Zertifikat Deutsch für Jugendliche. It is set at the B1 level on the European scale of language learning and is aimed at young people between 12 and 15 years of age who are learning German as a foreign language.

Participants should be able to talk about things that interest them, eg. a television programme, and also be able to go into a shop and buy something without any great difficulty.

The certificate may be useful for teenagers moving permanently to Germany with their parents to be able to gain entry to a German school.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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Fit 1/2, or to give it its full title: Fit in Deutsch 1/2 are two courses and exams set at the A1 and A2 levels respectively.

They are aimed at younger people than the previous DaF courses, and as such they concentrate on situations and subsequently the vocabulary that younger people would need when in Germany.

One problem with such target groups is the time it takes for new textbooks to appear that take account of modern trends.  Modern topics may therefore be covered using handouts rather than textbooks.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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PWD stands for Prüfung Wirtschaftsdeutsch.  It is set at the top end of level C1 on the European scale for language learning.

The exam is targeted towards situations in German working life, such as taking part in a meeting or a sales conference.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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ZDfB stands for Zertifikat Deutsch für den Beruf.  It is set at the B2 level on the European scale of language learning and is intended for adult learners.

The vocabulary that is taught is aimed more towards words that would be used in an office or in industry, although at a moderate level.  As such someone with ZDfB could make telephone calls or write correspondence, but it is not the highest level that may be required for more qualified jobs.

To hear a simple explanation and a short discussion in German, listen to the podcast:

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