Aiming for B2 German level

When you study a foreign language for whatever reason – for work, for immigration or just as a hobby, – you want to know your knowledge level and is it enough for your purposes. Usually, if you know that you have B1 German level, it signifies that you can handle everyday conversations and comprehend basic written and spoken German. Having a B2 level is essential for many working positions, but starting at B2 without a B1 level could make the course too challenging, as B2 focuses on more advanced language skills and complex grammatical structures. You have to set your goal on obtaining a B1 Certificate in German first, if you haven't already: this way you will be confident that you will understand more complex grammatical structures. To get the certificate, you should:

Take a B1 language course

If you haven't completed one already, enrolling in a B1 German language course is the first step. You can find these courses through local language schools, Goethe-Institut branches, community colleges, or online platforms. These courses usually cover listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, essential for achieving B1 proficiency.

Self-study with B1 level materials

If you prefer self-study, there are resources specifically for B1-level learners. Books like “Menschen B1”, “Schritte Plus B1”, and “Aspekte Neu B1” are designed for students at this level. Pairing books with language apps focused on vocabulary and grammar can be helpful too. Practice speaking and listening skills with German-language podcasts, news, or YouTube channels.

Prepare for and take a B1 exam

Once you feel confident in your skills, you can take a B1 exam to obtain your certificate. Exams are offered by reputable institutions:

• Goethe-Institut (Goethe-Zertifikat B1)
• TELC (The European Language Certificates)
• TestDaF.

The Goethe and TELC exams are well-suited for everyday language skills. They typically take from 2.5 to 3 hours to complete the tasks. The TestDaF exam is more often geared towards academic purposes so it may be more challenging, especially for higher levels. Each exam includes sections for reading comprehension, listening, writing, and speaking.

Register for the exam and pay the fee

Each exam has a registration process, often available on the institution’s website. Be sure to register in advance, as spots can fill quickly, and there is usually a fee, which can range from €100 to €200, depending on the location and testing center.

After passing the exam, you’ll receive a B1 certificate. Most institutions issue the certificate within a few weeks of completing the test.