The Goethe-Institut certificates are an internationally recognized proof of language skills. In Germany and worldwide, they serve as a proof of language skills in German. To receive a Goethe-Zertifikat, you must take the corresponding German examination. Find out more about the levels of the language exams and where and when you can take an exam.
German skills are in demand
There are many reasons to learn German. They can be of private or professional nature. However, if you want to prove your German language skills, you need an official certificate at your current level of proficiency.
At the Goethe-Institut you can take your exam at all levels, which are divided into six consecutive levels of difficulty. They correspond to the six-level competence scale of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The range of exams offered extends from the beginner level A1 to the Großer Deutscher Sprachdiplom at level C2. In addition, we offer the TestDaF examination for students and researchers, which is important for all those who want to study, research or work in Germany. This certificate is recognized by all universities in Germany. If you would like to have a solidly based assessment of your language skills in a short time, we offer the Goethe-Test PRO online, which gives you a classification of your German language skills and, if necessary, provides suggestions for further studies and suitable German courses.
Find the right exam
The exams are taken according to your level. If you have taken a German course at the Goethe-Institut, you will already know what level your language skills are. For the levels A1 to B1 we distinguish between adults and teenagers who may have attended one of our German language summer camps. From level B2 onwards, the exam doesn’t make that distinction anymore. You may need the B2 level to prepare for a job in the medical field in Germany. If you want to teach at a school in Germany, you will have to pass the highest of our examination levels, the C2 level, also called Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom. The states of the Federal Republic of Germany, which are responsible for education, will recognize the exam as official evidence of the language competence needed to teach. No matter how far your language skills have progressed, you will find a German language exam that is suitable for you at each of our locations.