Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
Hof's English minimums
The scores below are from Hof's application and admission page and its FAQ for degree-seeking students, last modified 23 February 2026.
| Programme | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| All English-taught programmes | 6.5 Academic | TOEFL iBT 90 (incl. Home and Paper Edition) |
| Software Engineering for Industrial Applications (M.Eng.) | 6.5 Academic | TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 60 |
| Applied Research in Computer Science (M.Sc.) | 6.5 | TOEFL 90 |
| German-taught programmes | Not applicable | German at B2 |
PTE, Duolingo and MOI
The FAQ says certificates other than IELTS and TOEFL, such as Pearson or Cambridge, are subject to the examination board's decision after you apply. In individual cases other tests at B2 or above can be accepted.
Hof states that a medium of instruction certificate is not sufficient for admission, and that Duolingo scores are not accepted.
The FAQ adds that accepted certificates are valid for admission only and do not guarantee a visa. It notes that TOEFL iBT might not be accepted for visas in India and that home editions might not be sufficient in several countries.
Free test: are you at Hof University of Applied Sciences's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Applying and credits
You apply only through the PRIMUSS portal, and there is no application fee. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Applied Research in Computer Science can admit applicants with fewer than 210 ECTS, who then make up the missing credits, for example through an internship of at least 23 weeks.
Your German student visa is handled by the German embassy or consulate where you apply, not by Hof University. This guide covers Hof University's admission rule only. Our IELTS for Germany guide covers the visa side and test fees.
English requirements in Germany are set per programme and can change between intakes. The score that binds you is the one on your Hof University programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Hof University of Applied Sciences publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score does Hof University need?+
IELTS Academic 6.5 for programmes taught in English, or TOEFL iBT 90.
Does Hof University accept Duolingo?+
No. The FAQ says Duolingo scores are not accepted.
Does Hof accept a medium of instruction letter?+
No. Hof says an MOI certificate is not sufficient for admission.
Does Hof University accept PTE?+
The Software Engineering master's lists PTE Academic 60. For other programmes, the examination board decides on Pearson results after you apply.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in Germany accepting IELTS 6.5
- Deggendorf Institute of Technology IELTS requirement
- University of Bayreuth IELTS requirement
- IELTS for Germany: visa, universities and fees
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 2279 guides
Guide updated on 29 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy