The highest award: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS).

The Große Deutsche Sprachdiplom (GDS) requires more advanced language skills than any other examination offered by the Goethe-Institut. It exceeds the highest level (C2) on the six-level scale of competence laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

By passing the exam you will be able to:

• communicate in verbal and written form at the highest niveau in any given situation
• analyze literary as well as scientific texts and adequately answer questions
  book list
• demonstrate excellent knowledge of standard German.

Recognition

Certificates issued by the Goethe-Institut are recognized throughout the world.

The Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom enables foreign students to be admitted to German universities, qualifying them for courses there in the social sciences and German.

Locations, prices, dates and enrolment

You can find the Goethe-Institut or examination partner closest to you here, along with information about locations, prices, dates and enrolment.
Testing locations

Under the section “Frequently asked questions” you will find general answers on the Goethe-Institut exams.

Development

The Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom has been developed by the Goethe-Institut in cooperation with the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. The examination components are drawn up by experts with teaching and examination experience and edited at our head office in Munich.