One of the most common issues when learning German is getting the B1 certificate and knowing the steps required to reach this level. Especially improving your language skills and successfully passing the exam is an important milestone in your German journey. So, how to get the German B1 Certificate and what stages to go through?

6 Steps to Get the German B1 Certificate

As sculin.com, we will discuss in detail the steps you need to follow to reach the B1 level, tips to be successful in the exam and the most effective study methods. If you are wondering about the answers to questions such as "How should I prepare for the German B1 exam?", "What skills are measured at the German B1 level?", let's discover together!

What are the German Language Levels?

1. Beginner Levels

A1 (Beginner – Anfänger)

● Can understand simple words and expressions.

● Can introduce himself and express his basic needs.

● Can communicate at a basic level when spoken slowly and clearly.

A2 (Basic – Grundlegende Kenntnisse)

● Can understand and use simple sentences in everyday conversations.

● Can describe himself and his environment.

● Can talk about basic topics such as shopping, work and travel.

2. Intermediate Levels

B1 (Intermediate – Mittelstufe)

● Can understand and talk about topics encountered in everyday life.

● Can describe past events, experiences and goals.

● Can communicate independently at a basic level in the workplace and at school.

B2 (Upper-Intermediate – Fortgeschrittene Kenntnisse)

● Can participate in discussions on abstract and technical topics.

● Can communicate fluently and naturally.

● Can give detailed opinions in his/her field of expertise.

3. Advanced Levels

C1 (Advanced – Fachkundige Sprachkenntnisse)

● Can understand complex texts and academic writings.

● Can speak fluently, flexibly and effectively.

● Can communicate comfortably in formal, academic and professional environments.

C2 (Mastery – Annähernd muttersprachliche Kenntnisse)

● Can speak almost as fluently as a native speaker.

● Can easily understand all types of written and spoken texts.

● Can notice even small details and has a high level of language knowledge.

German levels are usually measured with language certificates (such as Goethe, TELC, TestDaF) and there is a specific exam format for each level.

How to Get a German B1 Certificate?

You can follow these 6 steps to get a German B1 certificate:

1. Choose the Right Exam

There are many exams that give a German certificate at B1 level. The most common ones are:

● Goethe-Zertifikat B1 (Goethe-Institut)

● telc Deutsch B1

● ÖSD Zertifikat B1

● TestDaF (for levels B1 and above)

Determine which exam is best for you.

2. Learn the Subject and Exam Format

Review the content of your chosen exam:

● Reading (Lesen)

● Listening (Hören)

● Writing (Schreiben)

● Speaking (Sprechen)

The format and question types of each exam may vary.

3. Prepare with Resources

You can use the following resources to learn German at B1 level:

● Textbooks: Schritte International B1, Aspekte B1

● Online Resources: Deutsche Welle, Goethe-Institut Online Übungen

● Apps: Duolingo, Anki (word cards), LingQ

4. Practice and Take Mock Exams

Improve your time management by taking mock exams that are similar to the real exam format.

● Take Goethe & telc official mock exams.

● Find a tandem partner for speaking practice or take a language course.

5. Apply for the Exam and Pay the Fee

Find a center that offers the exam of your choice and apply.

● You can register on the official websites of Goethe-Institut, telc or ÖSD.

● Fees can vary between 100-200 Euros.

6. Take the Exam and Get the Certificate

If you pass the exam, you will get your B1 certificate.

● A 60-70% success requirement is usually required.

● Results are announced within 2-6 weeks.

If you are looking for answers to questions such as "What are the German language levels?", "How to get a B1 certificate in German?", you can easily learn by checking out our blog post 6 Steps to Get a German B1 Certificate!

If you want to further develop your language learning skills, read our blog posts titled Sculin's German Middle School Course, Best German Study Practices and Resources to improve yourself!

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