Let's take a look at the 'levels' that everyone talks about. The CEFR - Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - has laid down 6 levels of difficulties ranging from A1 - beginner to C2 - mastery. The levels consist of three bands - A, B and C with 6 levels - A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. It was formed by the Council of Europe as a way of standardizing the levels of European languages such as German, French, Spanish, Italian, etc.
This new and updated Common European Framework of Reference for Languages Guide (2020) by the Council of Europe will give you an idea of what you can do (speak, read, listen to, write & understand) after completing certain levels, as none of the levels or the levels have any "syllabus". Please read it before you start learning German.
Different organizations conduct different exams, however, the levels remain as they are.
Apart from A1-C2 Certifications, one has to some more tests or examinations. Some of them are:
TestDaF - Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Level B2-C1)
DSH - Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (Level B2-C2)
DSD - Deutsches Sprachdiplom Stufe I & II (A2-C1)
As you can see, the exams align with the CEFR Levels. Any of these exams can be written with prior learning and studying. On average, it takes 2-3 years of a thorough study to write the TestDaF or the DSH 2, but those can also be written with a year of intensive study.
Goethe Institute offers both courses and exams, telc offers tests for various target groups and DSH - DSD are the exams written by University and High School applicants respectively.
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