The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 certifies intermediate German at the CEFR threshold level: you grasp the gist of everyday conversation, cope confidently while travelling, and express clear, connected ideas on familiar topics. Co-developed by the Goethe-Institut and the ÖSD, it also exists as the 'Zertifikat Deutsch für Jugendliche' for younger learners and remains one of the world's most widely recognised German qualifications.
Its real strength is its modular design: the four parts (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen) can be booked and sat separately, on different dates, and passed independently of one another, each with a 60% pass mark. If just one module gives you trouble, you retake only that one. B1 is also frequently the language level required for German citizenship or permanent residence, making it as strategic as it is rewarding.
Four modules assess your skills. Here's what to expect on exam day.
Pass mark
60/100
Total time
~180 min
Modular exam
Each module can be taken and passed separately.
Pick out the relevant information in emails, articles and everyday notices.
Understand everyday conversations, announcements and messages spoken at natural pace.
Write clear, structured personal messages, emails and short opinion pieces.
Talk, present a topic and plan something together in a guided interview.
The skills expected at B1 according to the European framework (CEFR).
B1 is for learners who have consolidated the basics (A2) and want true everyday independence, as well as candidates preparing for citizenship, residence applications or professional integration in a German-speaking country.
Structured practice, calibrated to the real exam format.
Practise module by module (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen) with exercises calibrated to the official B1 format.
Sit timed mock exams to track your score out of 100 and aim for the 60% pass mark in each part.
Get detailed feedback on your writing and speaking, with targeted advice on your weak spots.
Monitor your progress part by part on a dashboard that flags which module to retake first.