Goethe | Zertifikat B1: Adults

Goethe | Zertifikat B1: Adults

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 confirms basic German language skills at the third level (B1) of the six-level competence scale of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Exam Information

Who takes Goethe-Zertifikat B1?

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

By passing this examination, Goethe-Zertifikat B1 candidates can:

  • be able to understand the main information when clear standard language is used and when dealing with familiar matters from work, school, leisure, etc.
  • be able to cope with most situations encountered when travelling in German-speaking countries.
  • be able to express themselves simply and coherently on familiar topics and areas of personal interest.
  • be able to talk about experiences and events and describe dreams, hopes and goals and give short reasons or explanations.

Goethe-Institute B1 Adults exam

Format of the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 exam

Exam section Content Duration
Reading You will read blog posts, emails, newspaper articles, advertisements and written instructions. You can grasp main information, important details, points of view and opinions. 65 Minutes
Writing You write personal and formal emails/letters and express your opinion in writing by posting in a forum. 60 Minutes
Listening You listen to announcements, short lectures, informal conversations and discussions on the radio. You can grasp main messages and important details. 40 Minutes
Speaking You talk with your partner about an everyday topic, e.g. travel. You respond to questions, express your opinion and make suggestions. You freely give a presentation on an everyday topic and answer questions about it. 15 Minutes

Rating by the Goethe-Institut

All candidates who have passed all parts of the German exam will receive a certificate. On the back of the certificate there is an explanation of the results.

The score achieved can be interpreted as follows:

Points Rating
100 - 90 very good
89 - 80 good
79 - 70 satisfactory
69 - 60 sufficient
59 - 0 failed

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