A prerequisite for being allowed to work, study and/or live permanently in Germany is almost always sufficient knowledge of the German language. The easiest way to prove this is with the help of a recognized language certificate at levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. In this article, we explain which certificate you need, which courses, exams and exercises are available and what costs you can expect.
Language certificate - what is it actually?
The German A1 to C2 certificates are based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is there to make the different examinations, courses and qualifications comparable and to define a common level. The CEFR also establishes an internationally recognized standard for the acquisition of language skills with the help of 6 different levels.
What is the difference between the German A1 to C2 certificates?
What exactly distinguishes German B1 from German B2 or A1 is basically the level of difficulty. To help you distinguish between the individual language certificates, we have compiled all the important information for you here. On the website of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) you will also find many other overviews and explanations on the subject.
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German A1 - Beginners
"Can understand and use familiar, everyday expressions and very simple phrases aimed at satisfying specific needs. Can introduce themselves and others and ask other people questions about themselves - e.g. where they live, what people they know or what things they have - and can answer questions of this kind. Can communicate in a simple way if the person they are talking to speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help."[1]
German A2 - Basic knowledge
"Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. personal and family information, shopping, work, local area). Can communicate in simple, routine situations involving a simple and direct exchange of information about familiar and routine matters. Can use simple means to describe own background and education, immediate environment and things related to immediate needs."[2].
German B1 - Advanced language use
"Can understand the main points when clear standard language is used and when dealing with familiar matters from work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations encountered when traveling in the language area. Can express him/herself simply and coherently on familiar topics and areas of personal interest. Can talk about experiences and events, describe dreams, hopes and ambitions, and give brief reasons or explanations for plans and opinions."[3].
German B2 - Independent use of language
"Can understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics; also understands technical discussions in his/her field of specialization. Can communicate so spontaneously and fluently that a normal conversation with native speakers is possible without great effort on either side. Can express him/herself clearly and in detail on a wide range of topics, explain a viewpoint on a topical issue and give the advantages and disadvantages of various options."[4].
German C1 - Specialized language skills
"Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and also grasp implicit meanings. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without often having to search for clearly recognizable words. Can use language effectively and flexibly in social, professional, educational and academic contexts. Can express him/herself clearly, in a structured and detailed way on complex subjects, using a variety of text linking devices appropriately."[5]
German C2 - Almost native speaker knowledge
"Can understand with ease practically everything he/she reads or hears. Can summarize information from different written and oral sources, giving reasons and explanations in a coherent presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely and can also make finer nuances of meaning clear in more complex situations."[6]
How do I find out what language level I am at?
Our tip: With this free placement test from Deutsche Welle, you can easily find out how good your German language skills already are. If you are good at self-assessment, this CEFR placement test can also help you.
Which language certificate do I need for Settlement permit?
The requirement to have sufficient knowledge of the German language is set out in Section 9 (2) No. 7 AufenthG. However, applicants are regularly faced with the question of which certificate they need for this.
German B1 for Settlement permit after 5 years (basic principle)
In order to fulfill the requirements of § 9 para. 2 sentence 1 no. 7 in conjunction with § 2 para. § Section 2 (11) AufenthG and to obtain a permanent right of residence in Germany, the German language level B1 is required. This level can also be demonstrated by successfully passing the German Test for Immigrants (DTZ) as part of integration courses.
German A2 for Settlement permit with refugee status after 5 years
If you are a recognized refugee within the meaning of the Residence Act in Germany and do not apply for Settlement permit after 3 years, but only after 5 years, you only need language skills at A2 level in accordance with § 26 para. 3 sentence 1 no. 4 in conjunction with § 2 para. 10 AufenthG. § 2 Para. 10 AufenthG, you only need language skills at German A2 level.
German C1 for Settlement permit with refugee status after 3 years
As a recognized refugee, you can obtain the Settlement permit after just 3 years. To do so, however, you must prove that you have "mastered" the German language. In order to obtain a permanent right of residence as a refugee in Germany after just 3 years, you must, in accordance with § 26 Para. 3 Sentence 3 No. 3 in conjunction with § 2 Para. 12 AufenthG, have language skills at the German language level. § Section 2 (12) AufenthG , you must havelanguage skills at German C1 level .
German A1 for spouses
Easier conditions apply for the reunification of spouses. You must have basic German language skills. Proof of the German A1 language certificate, i.e. passing the simplest of the 6 levels, is sufficient.
How difficult are the individual certificates (German A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 & C2)?
Level | Difficulty
German A1 - for beginners, easy
German A2 - a little more difficult, basic knowledge of the language is required
German B1 - for advanced learners, you should be able to speak German well
German B2 - you must be able to speak German fluently
German C1 - First step towards bilingualism, very good knowledge of German required
German C2 - highest German certificate, native speaker level
Is it possible to buy a language certificate?
No, a language certificate is similar to a certificate of completion of a course. In order to receive the certificate, you must prove that you have the appropriate language skills. It is not for sale. However, you can buy preparation courses or special practice materials to prepare for the exam. There are also many free exercises available on the Internet (overview: German A1 to German C1 exercises can be found below).
How long is a language certificate valid for?
Tests always reflect the current status, i.e. they certify what knowledge you currently have. However, a language certificate, just like a school leaving certificate or training certificate, cannot simply become invalid, even if it is many years old. As a rule, a language certificate is therefore valid for life.
What are the providers of German tests (language certificates)?
There are various organizations from which you can obtain a recognized language certificate. They differ mainly in terms of their reputation and the main purpose of the exam (Naturalization, application for a course of study/training, etc.). These are some of the providers of language certificates:
- Goethe Institute
- TELC GmbH
- AFU GmbH
- State Secretariat for Migration SEM
- Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs
- Interlaken Education Center bzi
- Carl Duisberg Centers
- Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce
- Society for Academic Study Preparation and Test Development e.V. - TestDaF Institute
- Austrian German Language Diploma Association (ÖSD)
German language test TELC
The TELC language diploma is a widely used and recognized language certificate. The abbreviation TELC stands for "The European Language Certificates" and thus makes it clear that the company specializes in standardized language examinations that are internationally recognized. Here you can acquire a language certificate in all 6 language levels.
German test for immigrants (DTZ)
telc GmbH offers a special exam for foreigners who, for example, need proof of their Naturalization or Settlement permit . You can obtain this language certificate at the German A1, German A2 and German B1 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
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Procedure
The standardized language tests from TELC test your skills in the areas of listening, reading, writing and speaking. The special German test for immigrants consists of a written and an oral part and takes about 100 minutes in total, whereby the oral part usually follows directly after the written part. In order to be perfectly prepared for this exam, we recommend the free PDF practice test from TELC GmbH linked below as well as the additional practice material.
Preparation
Language courses or practice portals are suitable for preparing for the language test (see below). Exam preparation is also an essential part of integration courses. It is advisable to look at and internalize the types of tasks and the exam procedure for the language certificate you are aiming for.
Exam date
The examination date is set by the respective examination center. In most cases, you will receive your language certificate within 14 days of passing the exam.
Examination venue
You can take the TELC language test at various public and private language schools. To find out which examination center is near you, you can simply enter your zip code here on the TELC GmbH website.
Repetitions
You can retake the respective language test as often as you like. However, it should be noted that a retake always includes the entire test, i.e. both the oral and the written part. The costs are also incurred again in each case.
Costs
The cost of the test varies greatly depending on the language level and examination center. The fees for TELC language tests are between €40 and €140. For the German B1 to C2 levels, candidates usually have to pay between €130 and €230. In some cases, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) may also cover the examination fee.
German A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 & C2 free exercises
The internet offers a range of practice portals and websites where you can practise your German skills and practise for the language test. There are both free offers and paid courses. We have put together a list of free practice portals and apps for learning German.
Test PDF
- TELC Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer Deutsch A2-B1 - detailed practice test in PDF format
- Cornelsen model test Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer - free model test in PDF format
Websites
- German for you - The free online training from the Goethe-Institut
- German for you - On the corresponding YouTube channel you will find many instructive videos
- Deutsche Welle - On the DW website you can learn through various exercises, music and videos (A1, A2 and B2)
- Learn German with DW - There are also great YouTube learning videos here
- DW Learn German on Instagram - You can also find Deutsche Welle on Instagram
- The city of words - This online game teaches you German words with ease
Apps
Summary
The 6 different levels of the language tests (German A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) are designated by letters and numbers. The letters indicate the language level (A = basic language skills, B = advanced language skills, C = confident language skills). The numbers 1 and 2 differentiate further within these 3 levels. The principle is best explained using a table (see above). It is particularly important for you to know which language certificate you need and where you can obtain it. There are also many websites with free exercises and courses to help you prepare for the test. We at migrando will help you to get a quick and uncomplicated overview of the language certificate so that you and your family can finally obtain the Settlement permit and live stress-free in Germany.
[1] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at 23.04.2021)
[2] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at: 23.04.2021)
[3] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at 23.04.2021)
[4] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at 23.04.2021)
[5] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at 23.04.2021)
[6] https://www.europaeischer-referenzrahmen.de/ (as at 23.04.2021)
