B1 · Goethe · telc · English
The B1 exam: Goethe and telc on one page
Level B1 is a requirement for many professions, for vocational training and for citizenship. Two formats are common: the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 and telc Deutsch B1. The content is similar, the scoring is not.
The tasks are in German — just like the exam. This page explains the structure in your language.
Goethe-Zertifikat B1: four separate modules
| Section | Tasks | Minutes | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 30 | 65 | 100 |
| Listening | 30 | 40 | 100 |
| Writing | 3 | 60 | 100 |
| Speaking | 3 | 15 | 100 |
telc Deutsch B1: one exam, all parts together
| Section | Tasks | Minutes | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 20 | 50 | 75 |
| Language elements | 20 | 40 | 30 |
| Listening | 20 | 30 | 75 |
| Writing | 1 | 30 | 45 |
| Speaking | 3 | 15 | 75 |
How the result is calculated
In Goethe B1 each module is a separate exam worth 100 points, passed from 60. Modules can be taken and retaken individually. In telc B1 all parts together add up to 300 points, passed from 180 (60 %). From 270 the grade is «sehr gut», from 240 «gut».
How to practise here
- 10 complete tests per exam (Goethe B1 and telc B1 separately)
- Audio for every listening task
- An explanation for every task (in German)
- Assessment of writing and speaking against the exam criteria
Which exam should I take — Goethe or telc?
Both are recognised. Goethe B1 consists of four separate modules, which helps if one module fails. telc B1 is one exam with all parts, and in many cities there are more telc centres. Check the requirements where you submit your documents.
Is B1 enough for work?
For many professions and for vocational training, yes. For the recognition of medical professions B2 is usually required — those exams are available too.
Can I retake a single module?
With Goethe B1 yes, each module separately. With telc B1 the whole exam is retaken.
Start now
The reading part of the first test is free and needs no account.