How long is a YDS score valid?
Facts last checked against official sources on October 7, 2026.
Short answer
How long a YDS score counts is set by the regulations of the institution that asks for it. For the public-sector language allowance and the TUS, DUS and EUS language requirement, a score is valid for 5 years from the exam date.
What happens after 5 years?
For the language allowance, after 5 years the level is treated as one grade lower and payment at level C stops. To keep the allowance you need to sit the exam again.
For academic applications
For graduate admission and job postings universities set their own validity periods; check the call before you apply.
Sources
Dates and rules can change. Check the organiser’s official page before you apply; that page is binding.
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