Goethe-Zertifikat B1

The objective is to …

• live and work in a German-speaking country
• demonstrate that you have achieved the language objectives required for level B1
• obtain a certification recognized worldwide

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is a German language certification for young people and adults that presupposes an independent use of the language and corresponds to level B1, the third of the six levels of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

By passing the exam, the candidate demonstrate that they are able to …

• understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters such as work, school, leisure, etc.;
• handle most situations that may arise while travelling in a German-speaking country;
• express themselves clearly and coherently on familiar topics and matters of personal interest;
• describe experiences and events, as well as dreams, hopes and ambitions, and give brief reasons or explanations.

PREPARATION

Here you can find sample exams to practise independently online.

PARTS OF THE EXAM: MODULES

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 consists of four modules: reading comprehension, listening comprehension (paired oral exam), writing, and speaking. The exam is conducted and assessed worldwide under the same conditions.

The four modules can be taken individually or in combination. Four certificates for the individual modules are equivalent to one overall certificate.

Reading comprehension

Candidates will read blog posts, emails, newspaper articles, advertisements, and written instructions. They will be able to understand the main information, important details, as well as points of view and opinions.

Duration: 65 minutes.

Writing

Candidates will write personal and formal emails/letters and express their opinion in a forum post.

Duration: 60 minutes.

Listening comprehension

Candidates will listen to announcements, short presentations, informal conversations, as well as radio discussions. They will be able to understand the main statements and important details.

Duration: 40 minutes.

Speaking

Candidates will speak with a partner about a topic from everyday life, such as travel. They will answer questions, express their opinion, and make suggestions. They will give a presentation on an everyday topic and answer questions about it.

Duration: approximately 15 minutes.

REQUIREMENTS

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is a German exam for young people and adults.

Goethe-Institut exams are open to all interested candidates and can be taken regardless of minimum age or German citizenship.

• For the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 for young people, a minimum age of 12 is recommended.
• For the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 for adults, a minimum age of 16 is recommended.
• The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 requires language skills corresponding to the third level (B1) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

To reach this level, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, approximately 350–650 teaching units of 45 minutes are required.