The DSD 2025 Examinations at GESM

by Volker Schlieske

The German Language Diploma (DSD): Learning German. Shaping Future Opportunities. For more than 50 years.

For five decades, the ZfA (Central Agency for Schools Abroad) has been taking the German language around the world – and opening countless doors along the way. In addition to overseeing 136 German international schools, it supports around 1,100 DSD schools worldwide. Each year, approximately 85,000 students rise to the challenge of the German Language Diploma (DSD). Respect!

We, too, are part of this strong network: DESM is not only a recognized German school abroad, but also an accredited DSD school. And the DSD is about far more than grammar and vocabulary. It fosters independent thinking, effective research skills, confident presentations, and well-founded argumentation – in short, skills that matter not just for exams, but for life.

Whether DSD I (B1) as a stepping stone to a Studienkolleg or DSD II (B2/C1) as a direct gateway to studying at German universities, the DSD is internationally recognized and a true door-opener for our students’ futures.

This school year was once again a busy one: the DSD I examinations took place as early as March, followed in November by the ultimate discipline of German language exams – DSD II. As in previous years, candidates were thoroughly tested across all skill areas.

The highlight? Without question, the oral examinations on November 26. As always, everything was at stake. And the level was impressive: at an almost academic standard, students presented topics ranging from the current value of a university degree in Germany and the consequences of standardization in the education system, to reconnaissance drones and information gathering, migration, excessive internet use, and even reflections on the legal drinking age in Germany. Demanding, thoughtful, and delivered with remarkable confidence.

Now it’s time to keep our fingers crossed. We expect the results at the end of January.

Dear candidates – we are proud of you!