Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the SDS Exam
All the important information clearly explained
Preparation and Registration
The Swiss Digital Language Test (SDS) is a digital German language exam covering CEFR levels A1 through B2. It is used as official proof of German language proficiency, for example, for naturalization, residence and settlement permits, and when dealing with government agencies or employers.
Registration through a certified testing center. There, you select your preferred date and test location and complete the Registration . You will then receive a confirmation email.
Yes. You can take the SDS either as a complete exam or in modules. You can register for the written section (reading and writing) or the oral section (listening and speaking). However, individual skills cannot be tested separately.
The full SDS exam costs CHF 239. The written and oral parts of the exam each cost CHF 150.
No. The test is straightforward and can be taken easily even without any special computer skills.
Examination procedure
The SDS is administered entirely digitally on a tablet. The test is adaptive, which means that the difficulty level of the questions automatically adjusts to your language proficiency.
Depending on the exam format you have registered for, the skills of reading, listening, writing, and speaking—or the corresponding modules—will be assessed.
The exam lasts a maximum of 2 hours and 45 minutes. Including the introduction and organizational information, you should allow about 3 hours and 30 minutes in total. Module exams are correspondingly shorter.
Information about the exam day
To participate, you need a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, ID card, or alien registration card. You cannot participate without a valid ID.
No aids are permitted during the exam. This includes, among other things, dictionaries and electronic devices.
The exam takes place in a quiet testing environment. All necessary technical equipment is provided by the testing center.
After the test
Exam results are usually sent out within a few business days, often as early as 48 hours after the exam.
Yes. If you would like to review your results, you can submit a written request to do so within the timeframe specified by the testing center.
Yes. You can retake the exam as many times as you like.
Certification and Accreditation
The SDS certificate is recognized by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and can be used as official proof of German language proficiency, for example for naturalization, residence permits, or when dealing with government agencies and employers.
If you lose your certificate, you can usually request a replacement from the testing center within two years of the exam date; there is a fee for this service.
