Goethe B1 vs telc B1
Both certify the same B1 level and are accepted for the same purposes — citizenship, settlement and skilled-work routes. The choice comes down to how the exam is structured and how you prefer to retake it.
| Dimension | Goethe-Zertifikat B1 | telc Deutsch B1 |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Modular — 4 separate modules | One exam, written + oral parts |
| Scoring | 100 points per module | 300 points total (225 + 75) |
| Pass rule | 60 / 100 in each module, independently | 60% in each part, no compensation |
| Retake | Repeat only the module you failed, anytime | Retake one whole part within 12 months |
| Skills tested | Lesen · Hören · Schreiben · Sprechen | Lesen · Sprachbausteine · Hören · Schreiben · Sprechen |
| Fees (Germany) | ~€104 per module, ~€259 full | ~€130–230 for the whole exam |
| Accepted for citizenship | Yes — B1 proof | Yes — B1 proof |
Choose Goethe B1 if…
- You want to pass one skill at a time and spread the exam out.
- You may need to retake a single weak module without redoing the rest.
- The ÖSD ZB1 (same exam) is what your centre offers.
Choose telc B1 if…
- You prefer one sitting that covers everything at once.
- A telc-licensed centre is the most convenient for you (there is one in Uzbekistan).
- You are comfortable clearing 60% in both the written and oral parts together.
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier, Goethe B1 or telc B1?
Neither is officially "easier" — both certify the same B1 level and are accepted for the same purposes. The real difference is structure: Goethe lets you pass one module at a time, while telc is a single sitting where you must clear 60% in each of the two parts.
Are both accepted for German citizenship?
Yes. Both Goethe-Zertifikat B1 and telc Deutsch B1 are accepted as B1 language proof for Einbürgerung and for a settlement permit. Confirm the exact requirement with the relevant authority.
Can I retake just one skill?
With Goethe B1 you can retake a single module (for example only Schreiben) as often as a centre allows. With telc B1 you can only retake a whole part — the entire written or the entire oral — and only once within 12 months while carrying over the part you passed.
See where you stand — free
Start with Lesen, Hören and Sprachbausteine at no cost. No card needed.