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What is the dMAT?

The dMAT (digital master test) is a computer-based aptitude test developed by universities together with g.a.s.t. From 2026 it is being introduced into the APS documentation and verification process for Indian graduates applying to Master's programmes in Germany. It focuses on reasoning and applied skills rather than memorised facts, and all tasks are single-choice, in English.


How it's structured

The dMAT has two timed parts with a break in between. The core module measures general study aptitude through three subtests — figure sequences, mathematical equations and Latin squares. The subject module covers applied, field-specific reasoning; Indian and general applicants take the General Academic subject module, which is passage-based. Each part runs about 90 minutes, so the whole exam is roughly three hours of testing plus a break.


Who needs it?

Requirements depend on your background and target university. Always confirm on the official sources below — this page is a study aid, not admissions advice.

What the Core module tests

The core module measures how you reason under time pressure, not what you have memorised. Every task is single-choice and in English, and you answer against the clock, so working quickly and accurately matters as much as reaching the right answer. There is no subject-specific knowledge to revise — instead, the strongest preparation is getting fluent with the question formats so none of them surprise you on test day. The core module has three subtests:

Figure sequencesWork out the rule behind a matrix of abstract figures and pick the figure that completes the pattern.
See an example

In a 2×2 grid, an arrow turns 90° clockwise from cell to cell: it points up, then right, then down, then a cell is blank. Which way does the missing arrow point?

  1. A.Up
  2. B.Right
  3. C.Down
  4. D.Left

Answer: Left — each step rotates the arrow a quarter-turn clockwise (up → right → down), so the fourth points left.

Mathematical equationsSolve systems of equations and numerical reasoning problems against the clock.
See an example

Given the system A + B = 9 and A − B = 3, what is the value of A?

  1. A.3
  2. B.6
  3. C.9
  4. D.12

Answer: 6 — adding the two equations cancels B and gives 2A = 12, so A = 6 (and B = 3).

Latin squaresUse row and column constraints to deduce the missing letter in a 5×5 grid.
See an example

In a 5×5 grid, every row and column must contain A–E exactly once. A row already reads A, C, _, D, E. Which letter fills the gap?

  1. A.A
  2. B.B
  3. C.C
  4. D.D
  5. E.E

Answer: B — the row already uses A, C, D and E, so only B is left for that cell.

The Subject module (General Academic)

After the core module you take a subject module. Indian and general applicants take the General Academic module: instead of standalone puzzles, you read a short passage and answer single-choice questions that apply reasoning to it — no specialist knowledge required.

General Academic (Subject module)Read a short passage, then answer single-choice questions that apply reasoning across mathematics, natural sciences, economics and social science.
See an example

A shop lists a jacket at ₹80. In a seasonal sale, the price is reduced by 25%.

What is the sale price of the jacket?

  1. A.₹60
  2. B.₹55
  3. C.₹70
  4. D.₹72

Answer: ₹60 — a 25% reduction leaves 75% of the price: 80 × 0.75 = ₹60.

Official sources

We link out so you can verify everything yourself. We are not affiliated with any of these bodies.