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C2 Goethe-Zertifikat C2

The Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom is a German language test for adults. The exam certifies a very advanced knowledge of the language at level C2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  • Proof of language proficiency for studying in Germany
  • Research or teaching in Germany
  • Official and internationally recognised certificate

Unfortunately, no examination dates are currently available. Please contact us for further information.

The modules

The Goethe-Zertifikat C2 consists of the modules listening, reading, writing and speaking (individual examination).
This offers complete flexibility: the four modules can be taken individually or in combination. The exam is conducted and graded uniformly worldwide.
In part 2 of the writing module, you have the option of selecting a literature-related topic. Those tasks are created in collaboration with the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.

  • Listening

    Duration: 35 minutes

    You listen to reports and commentaries from the media, informal conversations and interviews with experts spoken at a natural pace, and then work on various tasks related to them.

  • Reading

    Duration: 80 minutes

    You read factual texts, commentaries, reports and ads and work on different tasks for each. You can easily understand the texts, even if they are abstract or linguistically complex, and at the same time grasp implicit meanings.

  • Writing

    Duration: 80 minutes

    You will rewrite a short essay in parts and write a text based on a general or a literature-related topicthat is well structured and stylistically appropriate as a letter to the editor or book review. There are two general topics and one topic for each of the two books on the reading list to choose from. You will work on one topic selected from four options.

  • Speaking

    Duration: 15 minutes

    You give a presentation on a complex topic, for example globalisation. When asked, you can explain your arguments in detail. You discuss another topic in a pro-and-con conversation by expressing your own opinion, reacting to counter-arguments and trying to convince your conversation partner of your position.

Further Information

By passing the exam, you demonstrate that you ...

  • can summarise information from different written and oral sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.

  • can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions and distinguish shades of meaning.

  • can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.

According to the framework, the Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom enables the holder to study at any German-speaking university. In Germany, the certificate is also recognised as proof of language competence required as for the qualification as a teacher.

Framework regulations on German language examinations for studying at German universities (RO-DT) (German version)(PDF, 391 KB)

Find out in advance from the university of your choice which language certificate you need to present for your course.

Information about the exam

Requirements

The Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom is a German language test for adults.
The Goethe-Institut exams are generally open to anyone and can be taken regardless of age or nationality.

  • The Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom is recommended for those aged 18 and over.

  • The Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom requires language skills at the sixth and highest level of competence (C2) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  • Depending on your previous knowledge and learning requirements, you will need at least 1,000 lessons of 45 minutes each to reach this level.

  • Find the reading list for the literature-based tasks here

    Goethe-Zertifikat C2 literature list(PDF, 55 KB)

Exam preparation

Optimal preparation for the exam

Frequently asked questions

Further questions

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