The Digital and the Paper-based TestAS

Choosing the right TestAS format is an important step in your university application process in Germany. With this in mind, you must decide whether to take the Digital TestAS or the Paper-based TestAS before registering for a university program. Although both versions assess the same academic skills, there are key differences that can influence your performance and your university eligibility.

With this intention, this guide explains the key differences between the digital and paper-based TestAS and helps you decide which format suits you best.

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Recognition of the TestAS format by universities

Surprisingly, not all universities in Germany accept both TestAS formats. Some institutions recognize only the Digital TestAS or only the Paper-based TestAS.

Before registering, always check:

• Which TestAS format is accepted by your chosen universities
• Whether the Subject Module you select matches your intended major

Failing to choose the correct format can make your TestAS result invalid for your application.

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TestAS administration: Digital vs Paper-Based

Paper-based TestAS

The Paper-based TestAS is conducted in a traditional exam format:

• Questions are provided in printed booklets
• Answers are marked on a separate answer sheet with a pen
• You are allowed to make notes directly on the test papers
• No additional scratch paper is permitted

Specifically, this format is often preferred by students who rely on note-taking, calculations, or visual marking.

Digital TestAS

Accordingly, the Digital TestAS is taken entirely on a computer:

• Answers are selected by clicking on the screen
• Note-taking is not allowed
• All problem-solving must be done mentally

Therefore, this version is often better suited for students who are comfortable with screen-based tests and fast decision-making.

Note: Not all test centers offer both formats.

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TestAS structure and Subject Modules

While both formats aim to test the same competencies, the question types and task structures differ significantly between the Digital and Paper-based versions.

Both formats consist of:

• Core Test
• Subject Module

Paper-based TestAS (approx. 4–5 hours, including a 30-minute break)

– Core Module (110 minutes)

The Core Module of the paper-based TestAS focuses mainly on quantitative reasoning and logical thinking. Tasks include:

• Solving quantitative problems
• Inferring relationships
• Recognizing and continuing patterns
• Continuing numerical series

Undoubtedly, these tasks often benefit from written calculations and note-taking, which is permitted in the paper-based format.

– Subject Module (145–150 minutes)

You can choose one of four Subject Modules:

• Humanities, Cultural Studies and Social Sciences
• Engineering
• Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences
• Economics

Digital TestAS (approx. 3.5 hours, including breaks)

– Core Module (90 minutes)

In contrast, the Digital Core Module is shorter and focuses more on visual and abstract reasoning. Tasks include:

• Figure sequences
• Mathematical equations
• Latin squares

Most important, all tasks must be solved without note-taking, which requires strong mental processing speed.

– Subject Module (90 minutes)

Furthermore, the Digital TestAS offers six Subject Module options:

• Humanities, Cultural Studies and Social Sciences
• Engineering
• Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences
• Economics
• Medicine
• Life Sciences

Important: The additional Subject Modules (Medicine and Life Sciences) are only available in theDigital TestAS, which can, without a doubt, be a decisive factor for applicants in these fields.

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How to choose the right TestAS format

If your university accepts both formats, review the official TestAS sample questions to see which task styles you find easier and more intuitive.

Furthermore, if you struggle with long exam sessions, you may benefit from the shorter digital TestAS. By comparison, others may prefer the slower pace of the paper-based version.

To select the best TestAS format for your situation, ask yourself the following:

• First, which TestAS format is accepted by my target universities?
• Second, which format is offered at my test center?
• Next, do I perform better with paper-based or digital exams?
• Do I need to take notes while solving problems?
• Finally, can I maintain focus for 4–5 hours, or do I prefer a shorter test?

Important to realize is that choosing the right format can significantly impact your TestAS score and university admission chances. All things considered, the best TestAS format is the one that is accepted by your target universities and matches your strengths, preferences, and exam-taking style. This approach gives you the best chance to perform at your full potential. We wish you the best of luck!