Meaning and levels of difficulty
In order to understand why the B1 certificate is so important, you need to understand what this important piece of paper actually means and says. It is also important to understand what language level you can prove with this document.
Definition and meaning
The B1 certificate is a German exam that people can take in Germany from a young age. The certificate demonstrates a certain level of language proficiency. With a B1 certificate, foreigners show that they are able to use the German language independently and without outside help. B1 is the third level of the six-part European Framework of Reference for Languages.
With a successful B1 certificate, foreigners can show that, in addition to being able to use the German language independently, they can also give short explanations and talk about experiences and events. Furthermore, with a B1 certificate you are fit enough to cope with different situations when traveling in German-speaking countries.
The classification of difficulty levels
The language level in Germany is divided into three different levels of difficulty. The first language area is language area A. This includes language levels A1 and A2. The language level of language area A proves that you are able to understand individual names and words and can communicate in a simple way and have an elementary basic level of the German language.
The second language area is language area B. This language area includes level B1 and level B2. You are able to communicate using simple and coherent sentence combinations. You can also write short and simple messages and understand texts that deal with everyday and professional situations. Language area 2 is also the language area that demonstrates independent use of the German language.
The third and highest language level is level C. With language level C2, you can easily understand and read all types of texts. The language certificate C demonstrates that you are able to understand complex presentations, even if they are not structured. In addition, you have the ability to explain extensive facts and link them together. Language area C includes language levels C1 and C2.
The difference between B1 and B2
From a linguistic point of view, a B2 level, as opposed to a B1 level, enables you to read and understand articles and reports about difficulties in current affairs.
In addition, you can communicate spontaneously and without prior practice so well that you can communicate with native speakers. Furthermore, you are able to write texts with arguments and counter-arguments and are able to describe complex facts and situations well in a report.
Why is the B1 certificate important for foreigners?
There are reasons why the B1 certificate is extremely important for foreigners. Sooner or later, every foreigner who wants to stay in Germany long-term will come into contact with this document. It is all the better if you invest a lot of time in optimizing your German language skills right from the start of your stay.
B1 as proof of integration
The B1 certificate is the decisive proof of integration when applying for the Naturalization. Furthermore, this document is an important document when taking a step towards life in Germany and as proof that you are intensively involved with the country. It is a form of respect that goes down very well with the authorities in Germany and in German society in general. Furthermore, you need the German language at B1 level for everyday life.
B1 as a prerequisite for the Settlement permit
In principle, as a foreigner you must present a B1 language certificate as proof in accordance with § 9 Para. 2 Sentence 1 No. 7 in conjunction with § 2 Para. 11 AufenthG. There are some exceptions to this basic requirement. These exceptions arise due to certain Residence permit. It is then possible to obtain a Settlement permit even with a low language level such as A2. However, the best way and the safest solution is always a B1 certificate as proof of language proficiency.
B1 as a prerequisite for the Naturalization
One of the basic requirements for Naturalization is proof of at least language level B1. Section 10 StAG stipulates sufficient knowledge of the German language as a condition for Naturalization . Sufficient knowledge is the B1 level.
In order for the application to Naturalization to be successful, you must be able to prove a certain language level. In addition to being a great help for integration in Germany, the B1 certificate is therefore an absolute must if you want to hold a German passport in your own hands at some point.
Naturalization and Settlement permit without B1 certificate
A Naturalization without a B1 certificate is complicated. This only works if you can already prove language skills of B2, C1 or C2, or if you can prove that you have completed a tenth grade at a German school or a German apprenticeship or a German degree. In this case, a B1 level is already integrated into the qualifications.
A Settlement permit without a B1 certificate works if you apply after 5 years with the Residence permit refugee status. In this case, an A2 certificate is also sufficient. Another exception for a Settlement permit without a B1 certificate applies if you apply for a Settlement permit as a spouse in the course of spousal reunification. In this case, an A1 certificate is also sufficient.
Do I need a B1 certificate?
Possibilities with B1 certificate
In addition to the possibilities of meeting the requirements for a Settlement permit or a Naturalization , there are other possibilities and opportunities with a B1 certificate. Here, too, integration and easier handling in everyday life play an important role.
Working with a B1 certificate
It is generally the case that you have a better chance of getting a job if you have a good language certificate. Some companies include a language level as a minimum requirement in their job advertisements. For many professions, a B1 certificate is mandatory. Employers expect communication to run smoothly and without difficulties, which often only works if you have a B1 language level.
Training with a B1 certificate
The chances of finding a training place with a B1 certificate are higher than if you do not have a B1 certificate. With a B1 certificate, you can choose from over 300 training occupations and you are not dependent on whether a training provider accepts a language level below B1 or not.
As at work, it is also very important that communication works well during an apprenticeship. Many training companies attach great importance to this and deliberately choose trainees with a B1 certificate.
Legal importance for the B1 certificate
It is not only the case that a B1 certificate is an aid to integration. There are conditions for important applications by foreigners for Settlement permit or Naturalization . These conditions are laid down in the law. There are also legal requirements that foreigners must observe in connection with the language certificate and the language certificate.
The need for language skills
Section 10 StAG clearly stipulates that you must have sufficient language skills to apply for a Naturalization . It is legally stipulated that the minimum expectation in terms of these language skills is a B1 level. Thus, there is a purely legal requirement that foreigners who wish to become German citizens must be able to provide proof of at least a B1 certificate.
Importance of language certificates for the stay
Anyone wishing to apply for a permanent right of residence, such as Settlement permit , will also come into contact with the B1 certificate. Here, too, there is a basic requirement to be able to prove at least a B1 language level. This requirement is laid down in § 9 AufenthG. Sufficient language skills are also expected here. These language skills again consist of a B1 certificate or better.
Preparation and procedure for the B1 exam
As with all language exams, there is a certain procedure and preparation for the B1 exam. Preparation is very important in order to have any chance at all of passing the B1 exam and receiving the B1 certificate at the end.
Courses and other learning opportunities
Preparation for a B1 exam is done via a course. In a B1 exam preparation course, you can learn all the important skills you need for the exam in various learning units. The courses can be taken at the nearest adult education center, the nearest Goethe-Institut or at language schools such as Inlingua or Berlitz.
In addition to on-site lessons, there is also the option of taking an online course. The various providers and language schools have been offering online courses for some time now. This allows you to prepare for the respective exams from the comfort of your own home. Theoretically, you can also register for the exam without attending a course. However, attending a course is recommended because it makes learning easier.
Requirements for the examination
The prerequisite is that you are eligible to take a B1 exam. This can be through a successful A2 course attendance with a successful A2 test, or that you can prove that you need to take a B1 exam, for example to fulfill the requirements for the Naturalization . It is also important that you have completed a registration form for the exam and have a valid identity document with you.
Examination location and costs
The examination location for the B1 exams can be at adult education centers near your place of residence, at language test providers and at language schools. It is important that you make sure that the exam you take has a B1 level in German and that you receive a B1 certificate at the end if you pass.
The cost of the entire exam is between 130 and 255 euros, depending on the provider. At the Inlingua language school, a complete B1 exam costs 165 euros and a partial exam costs 120 euros. At the Goethe-Institut Berlin, a complete B1 exam costs between 191 and 255 euros.
You also have the option of taking the exam at a test center as part of the German Test for Immigrants (DTZ). The costs are then set at 117.11 euros by the Federal Ministry for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). Just like the B1 German exam, the test provides proof of a B1 certificate and is recognized by the immigration authorities.
Duration and procedure of the B1 exam
The B1 exam generally consists of 2 parts, an oral part and a written part. The written part of the exam lasts a total of 2 hours and 30 minutes. The written part consists of reading, listening, language building blocks and writing. The oral part consists of speaking and lasts about 15 minutes.
A total of 60% of the maximum number of points must be achieved for the exam to be considered passed. This means that you should achieve at least 135 points in the written exam and 45 points in the oral exam. You can achieve a total of 300 points using the Telc grading scale from Aledu as an example.
You may not use any unauthorized aids during the written test. No unauthorized aids are permitted for the oral test either. If you are caught using an unauthorized aid, you will fail the test and have to retake it.
Repetition and validity of the B1 certificate
In theory, the B1 exam can be repeated as often as you like. It is important to know that if you fail the exam, you must repeat both parts. The exam is only considered passed with both parts (written and oral).
Once you have successfully mastered the B1 certificate, it is valid forever and for life. You do not have to renew the certificate at a later date.
Advantages and future with B1 certificate
There are various advantages to passing the B1 exam. The future is also easier in various respects. In general, a B1 certificate facilitates and simplifies many processes in everyday life and for life in Germany.
Easier communication in everyday life
With a completed B1 certificate, communication in everyday life in Germany is easier. Whether you are shopping, talking to people, communicating with the authorities or at work. The better you speak German, the easier your everyday life in Germany will be and a B1 language level will help you to communicate better in your environment.
B1 as a door opener to integration in Germany
The B1 certificate is something of a key to integration in Germany. With this language certificate, a foreigner has the opportunity to apply for Settlement permit or Naturalization in Germany. Alongside the naturalization test and the declaration of loyalty, the certificate is regarded as the most important proof of integration in Germany and is one of the key requirements for applying for German citizenship.
Advantages of living in Germany with B1
The advantages for life in Germany with a B1 certificate are visible in various areas. Firstly, it is the prerequisite for taking the final step towards integration in Germany by applying for Naturalization . Furthermore, the document offers the advantage that it is very easy to apply for a permanent Residence permit, such as the Settlement permit .
There are also important advantages in the world of work and training. With a B1 certificate, it is much easier to apply for a job or apprenticeship than without a B1 certificate. With this document, you demonstrate that you have a good command of the German language. For many training companies and workplaces, this is a basic requirement for employment. A B1 certificate is generally a good qualification and helps you to climb the career ladder.
Ultimately, passing the B1 exam also helps with everyday communication in Germany. Whether it's important conversations with landlords, reading invoices and from authorities or insurance documents. All these things are much simpler and easier for you with a B1 language level. A B1 certificate is therefore above all an investment in yourself and your own potential.
Summary
As you can see, the B1 certificate offers many opportunities and opens many doors in Germany. Here is a summary of the most important points for your convenience.
- A B1 certificate is an important proof of integration for foreigners in Germany
- You need at least a B1 certificate to apply for the Naturalization
- The application for Naturalization without a B1 certificate is only possible with a German school, university or training qualification.
- The B1 certificate is a great help when applying for Settlement permit
- The B1 certificate makes it easier for you to apply for training and jobs
- The B1 certificate consists of a written and an oral part and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes
- The examination venues are adult education centers, Goethe Institutes, language schools and other language providers
- The costs for the exam vary between 130 and 255 euros and the exam can be repeated as often as required.
Do you have any questions about the B1 certificate?
FAQ: Questions and answers about the B1 certificate
A B1 certificate is a language certificate. It is required as proof of integration for Naturalization and is also the basic basis for language certificates at Settlement permit . The B1 exam consists of a written and an oral part and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes.
You receive the B1 certificate when you have passed the B1 exam. It is proof that you have passed the B1 exam and is issued by the examination center where you took the exam.
You need a B1 certificate as proof of integration for your application to Naturalization and as proof of language proficiency for Settlement permit. The B1 certificate also helps you when applying for apprenticeships and jobs and is a great help when communicating in everyday life in Germany.
Once you have passed the B1 exam, it is valid forever. Accordingly, the B1 certificate is valid for life and does not expire at some point.
The Naturalization with B1 certificate works as normal according to the paragraph and requirements stipulated in § 10 StAG. In addition to the B1 certificate, you must submit a signed declaration of loyalty, a passed integration/naturalization test, a positive prognosis for your livelihood, the correct Residence permit, the justified legal duration of residence and proof of identity. These documents must be submitted with the application form at Naturalization .
The Naturalization without B1 certificate only works with a German school-leaving certificate, or a German university degree, or a German vocational training qualification. These are basic requirements as an alternative to the B1 certificate. If you already have a B2 certificate or better, you do not need to provide proof of a B1 certificate.
In general, any apprenticeship or job requires a B1 certificate. However, the B1 certificate makes the application process easier for you. For many training companies and jobs, a B1 certificate in German is a basic requirement. So it is all the better if you have this certificate. With the B1 certificate, you can choose freely from 300 training occupations in Germany. Without a B1 certificate, this free choice is difficult.
The B1 certificate or B1 exam costs between 130 and 255 euros, depending on the examination center
The B1 exam can be retaken as often as required. However, both parts (written and oral) must be repeated regardless of whether one part was passed in the previous attempt.
