It’s not entirely accurate to say that one of the two formats is easier. Both versions assess the same proficiency levels, contain texts of equal difficulty, and are equally time-restricted. The real question is: which format suits you best?
In the digital format, there are more task types. The time is managed by the computer, and you cannot freely decide how much time to spend on each part. On the other hand, the task diversity can be an advantage if you struggle with one particular type.
Lesen
The digital version features 7 task types and 34 items – a record number. Each task type is strictly timed (between 4 and 15 minutes), and when the time runs out, the computer automatically moves to the next section. Going back is not possible.
The paper version includes only 3 task types and 30 items. You receive 60 minutes total and can allocate the time as you wish. However, this version contains two long texts that require significant concentration.
Good preparation for Lesen can more likely result in a good score in the digital version. If you get an unlucky topic, it has less impact on your result than in the paper version.
Preparation for the paper format is generally quicker. There are fewer tasks, and two of the three are familiar to most learners. In just one or two lessons, you can usually explain how to distinguish between tricky options like “No” vs. “Not mentioned in the text”.
It is generally easier to prepare for the paper-based format of the Lesen section.
The digital reading part, by contrast, requires more work: each task type has its own strategy – some quite unfamiliar even to advanced learners. Yet thorough preparation greatly increases the chances of a good score. If one topic is difficult, it won’t damage the overall score as much as in the paper version, where one difficult section could cost a third of the total points. On this page you can prepare for this part and then take a practice test.
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Lesen
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papierbasierte Version |
digitale Version |
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3 Teile 30 Items 60 Minuten |
7 Teile 34 Items ca. 55 Minuten |
Important note: In the digital format, trial tasks may appear – you might see 8 or 9 parts instead of 7. There is no way to know which ones will be counted. This can make the test up to 30 minutes longer.
Hören
Both formats take about 40 minutes. But again, the digital test offers more variety – 7 types instead of 3. The paper version contains three listening texts and 25 questions, while the digital one includes 30 tasks across seven types.
Just like in Lesen, the Hören section in the digital format offers a greater variety of task types.
Additionally, two of the three paper tasks require open-ended answers, which are graded by examiners. In the digital format, only three out of seven require written input.
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Hören
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papierbasierte Version |
digitale Version |
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3 Teile 25 Items ca. 40 Minuten |
7 Teile 30 Items ca. 40 Minuten |
Trial tasks may also appear in the listening section of the digital format.
If you want to test yourself and check how well prepared you are, you can take a practice test from this site.
Schreiben
This part is difficult to compare directly. In the digital version, you type your text on a computer – which, thanks to the user-friendly interface, is not a major issue. Typing mistakes are generally not penalized.
In the paper-based Schreiben section, there is only one task. If the topic is unfavorable, the chances of passing the exam are low. The digital version includes two tasks, increasing the chance that you’ll be able to write about something you're more familiar with.
The paper format contains only one task – if the topic is difficult or unfamiliar, it can seriously impact your score. The digital format provides two tasks, offering more balance.
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Schreiben
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papierbasierte Version |
digitale Version |
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1 Teil 60 Minuten |
1 Teil ca. 60 Minuten |
Keep in mind: the scoring system in TestDaF differs significantly from other international exams. Even learners with excellent certificates from other institutions may struggle here. Those with strong general knowledge and logical thinking have a clear advantage – even if their language level isn’t perfect.
You can be optimally prepared in this digital course, which specifically addresses TestDaF assessment criteria.
In Schreiben, solid preparation is key. People with a broad general knowledge and logical thinking skills will have an advantage.
You can also demonstrate your skills in a training exam. Your work will be reviewed quickly by experienced teachers so you can better understand your problems.
Sprechen
There are almost no differences between the two formats here. In both versions, candidates complete 7 tasks using a headset and computer. Each task allows 30 seconds to 2.5 minutes. Responses are recorded between two signal tones – restarting or repeating is not possible.
In Sprechen, the differences between the two formats are minimal.
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Sprechen
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papierbasierte Version |
digitale Version |
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7 Teile ca. 35 Minuten |
7 Teile ca. 35 Minuten |
If you want to understand what you'll face at a test center, you can take a mock training exam in in this section of our site. This will give you a better understanding of what the exam environment will be like and help you feel more confident on exam day.
Conclusion
No matter which format you choose – preparation is key. TestDaF is a unique exam with tasks unlike those in most other language tests. Start preparing now with our video courses and exam simulator!
