Which German exam do you need in Germany? DTZ, telc or Goethe
In Germany the choice depends on why you need the certificate: finishing an integration course, proving a level for work or study, or a residence procedure. All three are recognised — for different purposes.
| Criterion | DTZ (A2–B1) | telc Deutsch B1 | Goethe-Zertifikat B1 | Goethe-Zertifikat B2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nivel | B1 | B1 | B1 | B2 |
| Country | DE | DE / AT | DE | DE |
| Parts | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Objective items | 45 | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| Written duration | 100 min | 150 min | 165 min | 180 min |
| Speaking duration | 16 min | 15 min | 15 min | 15 min |
| Pass mark | 60% | 60% | 60% | 60% |
| Sections | Hören, Lesen, Schreiben, Sprechen | Leseverstehen + Sprachbausteine, Hörverstehen, Schriftlicher Ausdruck, Mündlicher Ausdruck | Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen | Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen |
Which should you choose?
- ·Integration course → DTZ. It is the official final exam, scored between A2 and B1.
- ·Work, vocational training or professional recognition → telc is most often requested.
- ·University study or international use → Goethe is the most widely recognised outside Germany.
- ·Don't book before asking the requesting body for the exact certificate name and level — the names look alike and acceptance is not identical.
This page explains exam structure and is not legal or official advice. Requirements for residence, citizenship or recognition must be checked with the responsible authority — they change.
Try both exams before you decide
On Bestehn you can generate a full mock exam for each, with exactly the structure above — so you can see which suits you before paying an exam fee.