German Exams

Deutschlernerin Foto: iStockphoto / Kali Nine LLC

Our German exams

Do you require evidence of your German language skills that is recognised all over the world? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! We run German exams for all levels of ability, ranging from A1 to C2.

Goethe-Zertifikat B1

Goethe-Zertifikat B2

Goethe-Zertifikat C1

Goethe-Zertifikat C2

Goethe-Test PRO

Advantages and recognition of German certificates

The Goethe-Institut's German exams, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), are a world reference in proficiency certification. These exams cover a wide range of levels, from A1 (for beginners) to C2, where knowledge of German approaches that of a native speaker.
The certification includes recognitions that are widely valued in the academic and professional world. The Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom diploma, for example, allows foreign students to enter higher education institutions in Germany, and is accepted in several countries as proof of qualification to teach German.

Preparing for the German exam

Do you want to take a German exam? Goethe-Institut exams can be taken directly at the institute, even without attending a regular course, as long as the candidate has the appropriate language level. However, for more solid preparation and effective results, we recommend our face-to-face or online German courses. These courses cover exam strategies, language practice and simulations, with the aim of optimising participants' performance and confidence.
 

International recognition of Goethe-Institut certificates

The value of our certificates extends beyond German borders:
  • Universities in the European Union: At many institutions, a certificate of proficiency in German from the Goethe-Institut allows students to obtain additional credits, facilitating their academic career.
  • High schools and international higher education: In some countries, the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 and Goethe-Zertifikat C1 exempt students from the final German exam in secondary school, making it a distinctive qualification.
 

How to earn your certificate

The Goethe-Institut offers a wide range of German proficiency exams for different profiles and needs. Contact us for more information on enrolment, timetables and preparatory courses.

Further information

Accessible practice exercises

We provide practice materials and sample exams for all our German exams. These are fully accessible and therefore suitable for people with disabilities.

Quality standards

More than 230,000 satisfied customers a year thanks to the Goethe-Institut’s certificates being accepted around the world as valid evidence of an individual’s language skills.

Test your German

Test how „gut“ your German is: Are you just starting out, pretty good or really great? This test gives you a first orientation. 

Frequently asked questions

We will inform you here about frequently asked questions on the examinations of the Goethe-Institut.

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