Quick answer: There is no Germany-wide IELTS score that applies to every degree. Language evidence is tied to the programme and its teaching language.
English-taught programmes
An English-taught programme may accept IELTS Academic, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English, an English-medium degree, or another form of evidence. The minimum and section rules vary. DAAD listings show real examples ranging from IELTS 6.0 to 7.0, which is why a generic “Germany requires 6.5” claim is unsafe.
German-taught programmes
German-taught courses usually require German-language evidence such as TestDaF, DSH, telc, or Goethe certification at the level named by the university. IELTS does not replace a German requirement unless the programme explicitly says so.
Visa evidence
A student-visa application normally depends on your admission and the language conditions attached to the course, not a universal IELTS threshold. Use the current German mission or official visa portal checklist for your country and circumstances.
How to verify your requirement
- Find the exact degree in the DAAD International Programmes database.
- Open the university's own admissions page and confirm test type, overall score, section minimums, validity, and waiver evidence.
- Save a dated copy of the requirement for your application records.
- Check the official visa instructions after receiving an offer.