Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
English scores by master's programme
Figures are from Paderborn's language requirements page. Paderborn's ETS institution code is 4037.
| Programme | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science (M.Sc.) | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 80; CAE grade B; FCE grade A; CPE |
| Electrical Systems Engineering; Physics (English route) | 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 80; CAE grade B; FCE grade A; CPE |
| Computer Engineering (without DSH) | 6.5 (B2) | TOEFL iBT 80; CAE |
| Optoelectronics and Photonics; Materials Science | 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 80; FCE |
| International Economics and Management | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 87; BEC Vantage; FCE grade A |
| Additive Manufacturing | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 87; FCE grade B |
| English and American Studies (M.A.) | 7.0 | TOEFL iBT 100; CAE grade A or B |
| Applied Neurosciences in Sport and Exercise | 7 | TOEFL iBT 95; CAE; UNIcert III |
Waivers and test age
For Computer Science, Physics and Electrical Systems Engineering, only a bachelor's from Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, or an English-accredited German programme, replaces the test. Paderborn says proof is mandatory even if you studied an English-language degree in another country, with no exceptions.
Additive Manufacturing treats a country as English-speaking when English is both the official language and the medium of instruction of the degree. English and American Studies and Applied Neurosciences accept certificates no more than two years old.
PTE Academic and Duolingo are not named for any programme on the page.
Free test: are you at Paderborn University's score yet?
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GRE, APS and German
Paderborn's application documents page asks for a GRE or dMAT for Additive Manufacturing, Computer Engineering and Computer Science, and an APS certificate if you apply from India, China or Vietnam. For Additive Manufacturing, the GRE usually needs 157 in Quantitative Reasoning and 4.0 in Analytical Writing, unless your degree grade is very good.
International Economics and Management also needs German at A2, which you can reach during your studies through 240 hours of German courses at Paderborn.
Your German student visa is handled by the German embassy or consulate where you apply, not by Paderborn University. This guide covers Paderborn 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 Paderborn University programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Paderborn University 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 Paderborn need for Computer Science?+
IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80, or a bachelor's from one of six English-speaking countries.
Can my Indian English-medium degree replace IELTS at Paderborn?+
Not for Computer Science, Physics or Electrical Systems Engineering. Paderborn says proof is required even after an English-language degree outside the six listed countries.
Does Paderborn accept PTE or Duolingo?+
Neither is named on Paderborn's language requirements page. Ask the International Office before booking either.
Do I need the GRE for Paderborn?+
Additive Manufacturing, Computer Engineering and Computer Science ask for a GRE or dMAT, according to the application documents page.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in Germany accepting IELTS 6.0
- RWTH Aachen IELTS requirement
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- IELTS for Germany: visa, universities and fees
- IELTS band score calculator
- 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.
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