How to Prepare for TestAS Effectively: Study Plan, Resources & Test-Day Tips
By Nguyen Duc Minh
TestAS Is Trainable — And That Changes Everything 📌
If you're applying to a German university without a German Abitur or equivalent qualification, chances are you'll need TestAS. The exam is organized by g.a.s.t. (Gesellschaft für Akademische Studienvorbereitung und Testentwicklung) — the same body behind TestDaF and onSET. Your result is a Standardwert, a norm-referenced score on a percentile scale where 100 is average and strong performers typically land between 115 and 130.
Here's the good news: TestAS rewards preparation. It doesn't test school knowledge — it tests academic reasoning ability. And reasoning ability can be sharpened through deliberate practice, format familiarity, and speed training. This guide gives you a proven roadmap to do exactly that.
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What the TestAS Tests 🔹
TestAS is a computer-based exam available in both German and English. It has two main components:
- Kerntest (Core Test) (~110 minutes): Evaluates general academic cognitive ability across four subtests — quantitative reasoning, number series, recognizing patterns and figures, and reading charts/texts.
- Schwerpunkttest (Subject Module): You choose one module aligned with your intended field of study:
- Humanities, Culture & Social Sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematics, IT & Natural Sciences
- Economics
The exam fee is approximately €150–160. Many Studienkollegs and universities require TestAS for admission; an exceptional score can even waive the Studienkolleg requirement in some German states.
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Your 4–8 Week Study Roadmap 📊
| Week | Focus | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orientation | Study the format; complete one official sample test from testas.de |
| 2 | Kerntest – Quantitative & Number Series | Drill basic arithmetic; 30–50 problems/day |
| 3 | Kerntest – Patterns & Charts | Spatial reasoning practice; chart interpretation |
| 4 | Kerntest – Reading Comprehension | Read C1-level academic texts; practice speed reading |
| 5 | Subject Module – Foundations | Subject-specific materials and reasoning frameworks |
| 6 | Subject Module – Deep Practice | Module sample tasks + StudienA exercises |
| 7 | Full Simulation | Timed full-length mock test; focus on time management |
| 8 | Exam Simulation | Simulate real exam conditions; error analysis |
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The Best Study Materials 📖
✅ Official sample tests: Free on testas.de — your single most important resource.
✅ Reasoning books: Logical reasoning, number series, and spatial reasoning workbooks (e.g., Hogrefe aptitude test series or similar publishers).
✅ Practice platforms: StudienA offers realistic TestAS-format exercises with structured feedback.
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Strategies for Each Core Subtest 🎯
🔢 Quantitative Reasoning No advanced math needed — but speed is everything. Drill basic operations, percentages, ratios, and estimation until they're automatic.
🔢 Number Series Identify the rule: addition, multiplication, exponents, or combined patterns. Pro tip: write down differences between consecutive numbers to spot the pattern faster.
🔷 Patterns & Figures Train your eye to spot rotations, reflections, and rule extensions. Regular visual pattern work builds the automatic recognition you need under time pressure.
📊 Charts & Reading Comprehension Read charts accurately and quickly. For reading passages: read the questions first, then scan the text for relevant information — don't read linearly.
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Preparing for Your Subject Module 🔹
Humanities/Social Sciences: Text analysis and logical inference from qualitative data; argument evaluation.
Engineering: Spatial visualization, technical diagram analysis, mechanical reasoning.
Math/Natural Sciences: Applying mathematical and scientific concepts to novel situations; fast calculation and logical proof.
Economics: Interpreting economic data, reading market charts, analyzing trends and causal relationships.
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Time Management & the Digital Interface ⚠️
Because TestAS is computer-based, interface familiarity is non-negotiable: - Use the simulation software on testas.de before exam day - Practice selecting answers by mouse click — it feels different from pencil-and-paper - No penalty for wrong answers — never leave a question blank
Time allocation: Divide your time evenly across questions in each section. If you're stuck, flag the question, move on, and return at the end.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Studying content without drilling speed — time pressure is the main difficulty.
- Not practicing on the computer interface before the real test.
- Choosing the wrong subject module — decide your field of study early.
- Underestimating the reading comprehension section — it's where most candidates lose points.
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Exam Day Tips 💡
- Get a full night's sleep; eat a light breakfast.
- Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early.
- Bring a valid passport or national ID.
- Read each section's instructions carefully before you begin.
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Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Q1: Can I retake the TestAS? Yes, retakes are allowed. However, some universities accept only your first attempt or your best result — always check the specific admission requirements of your target institutions.
Q2: What is a good TestAS score? The average is 100. Scores of 110–115 are above average; 120+ is considered excellent and may support Studienkolleg exemption in some states.
Q3: Can I take the TestAS in English? Yes — you can choose German or English, and both are recognized equally by German universities.
Q4: How long should I study for TestAS? With focused preparation (1–2 hours daily), 4–8 weeks is typically enough to see meaningful score improvement.
Q5: What's the difference between TestAS and APS? APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is a document verification process at the German Embassy. TestAS is an independent aptitude test. Many universities require both.
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💡 Ready to practice? Head to StudienA for realistic TestAS simulations that cover every question type — the smartest first step toward your German university admission.
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🔗 Related Articles
- What Is the TestAS? The Complete Guide for International Students
- TestAS Structure 2026: Digital and Paper-Based
- TestAS Scores Explained: What Is a Good Standardwert and How to Read Results
- What Is Studienkolleg? Complete 2026 Guide to Germany's University Preparatory Course
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> Format update: Before planning your preparation, confirm whether you are taking digital or paper-based TestAS. Digital has 3 Core subtests, 6 modules, and 0-200/0-400 scores; paper-based has 4 Core subtests, 4 modules, and 70-130 standard scores.