The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 is a German exam for adults. The exam confirms basic language skills at level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  • Language certificate for the visa for spousal reunification
  • Proof of your learning success at level A1
  • Official and internationally recognised certificate

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The Exam sections

The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 consists of the sections listening, reading, writing and speaking (oral group exam). The exam is conducted and graded uniformly worldwide.

  • Listening

    Duration: 20 minutes

    You listen to short everyday conversations, telephone messages or public announcements and work on tasks related to them.

  • Reading

    Duration: 25 minutes

    You read texts such as short notes, classified ads, information signs or notices and work on related tasks.

  • Writing

    Duration: 20 minutes

    You fill out simple forms and write a short personal text about an everyday situation.

  • Speaking

    Duration: 15 minutes

    You introduce yourself to the group. You then ask and answer questions about everyday life and ask someone from the group for something.

Further Information

By passing the exam, you are demonstrating, that you ...

  • are able to communicate in a simple way, introduce yourself in conversation and answer basic questions about yourself, using gestures where helpful;

  • are able to use familiar, everyday and frequently used expressions and simple sentences (e.g. information about yourself and your family, shopping, work or school, living situation);

  • are able to understand short, simple conversations in everyday situations if the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

Information about the Exam

Requirements

The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 is a German exam for adults.
The Goethe-Institut exams are generally open to anyone and can be taken regardless of age or nationality.

  • The recommended age for the Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 is 16 years or older.

  • The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 requires language skills at the first competence level (A1) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  • Depending on your previous knowledge and learning requirements, you will need 80 to 200 lessons of 45 minutes each to reach this level.

Exam preparation

Optimal preparation for the exam

  • Practice materials on-site

    In our on-site libraries you will find additional practice materials and German-language media such as books and films. Come and visit us!

    People sitting and studying in a library with bookshelves, tables, and large windows. Some individuals are using digital devices while others are reading. © Goethe-Institut/Tatsam Malhotra © Goethe-Institut/Tatsam Malhotra

  • Digital German exams

    Would you like to take the exam on a laptop? We offer selected exams digitally at our premises. You can find further information and tutorials here.

    Three examinees with headphones are sitting at individual tables and concentrating on their work on laptops.

  • Living and Working in Germany

    You have decided to live permanently in Germany? The Goethe-Institut supports you in preparing for and settling in Germany.

    Pedestrians are walking along a city street, surrounded by urban buildings and shops. © Jedrzej Kaminski/EyeEm via GettyImages © Jedrzej Kaminski/EyeEm via GettyImages

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