In the case of a test apparatus for testing electronic components which are present in an assembly, in particular in the form of strips, a slide-like contacting board supporting device, to which the contacting board can be fastened, is mounted on the test head. The contacting board supporting device can be moved parallel to the plane of the contacting board when the contacting nest is docked on the test head, with the result that the contacting board can be brought into different test positions which are laterally beside one another.