Admission Test FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about the Admission Tests
Q: Who needs to take an admission test?
A: All new applicants for the AI Programme starting with Winter Semester 2023/24 need to take the admissions test. If you have applied before and have been admitted (i.e. have an acceptance letter for AI) you do not need to take the test. If your previous application was unsuccessful, you do have to take the test.
Q: I have already taken this test once, do I need to take it again?
A: No. In fact, you’re not allowed to. Every applicant (with exceptions, see above) has to take this test once and once only.
Q: When is the test?
A: There are multiple dates throughout the application period that you can take a test on. There will be at least one toward the end of the application period. Please refer to the test dates listed here. On any given test date, you have the full 24 hours (time zone is Erlangen local time) to start the test, but once started, it needs to be completed a) within 60 minutes and b) before the test period ends.
Q: Where is the test?
A: Entirely online. You will have to register for the test platform with your email address and a special code you will receive by email. You will also be asked for your applicant number from Campo. Please find detailed instructions on how to sign up here.
Q: What language or languages will the test be in?
A: The test will be English only.
Q: What do I need for completing the test?
A: The most important thing (other than an awake mind) is a stable internet connection, preferably wired, and an up-to-date browser. You do not need webcams, IDEs, compilers, calculators or any special technology, software or hardware.
Q: Can I retake the test?
A: No! Every applicant only gets one shot at the test. Once you start the test, you have only that chance to complete it. It is not possible to cancel the test and retry later. Similarly, it is not possible to take the test again on a later date to improve your result.
Q: What if I fail the test? Or don’t take it at all?
A: Insufficient or nonexistent performance on the test will result in your application being rejected.
Q: What subjects will be on the test?
A: The test is designed to assess your general literacy and competency within the broader subjects of mathematics and computer science. Any topic that you can reasonably expect to be in a qualifying degree for this programme might have one or more questions in this test, especially the following:
- Programming and algorithms
- Theoretical computer science and logic
- Databases and conceptual modeling
- Mathematics in computer science (calculus, linear algebra, stochastics)
- Software engineering
Q: I’m not familiar with the testing platform. Is there a way that I can practice?
A: Yes! Please follow this link and you will be taken to the signup page for the testing platform where you can find a sample test that you can take whenever you want and as often as you want. Please refer to the how-to guides on signing up and completing tests.
Q: I took the test and my time ran out before I could hit “Submit”. Were my other answers saved?
A: Yes, probably excluding the question you were currently working on when time ran out.
Q: I finished the test. When can I expect my results?
A: You will not get any direct feedback on how well you did in the test. The results will be made available to the admissions committee, and they will take it into account. Once they have reached their decision, your status in the application portal (Campo) will be updated accordingly. There is no concrete timeline for this.
Q: I have a question that isn’t answered here!
A: Please have a look at the forum. Maybe someone there has already asked your question. If not, you can post it yourself. Note that this is only for administrative and technical questions, not about the content.