The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Fit in Deutsch 1 is a German exam for children and young people between the ages of 10 and 16. The exam confirms basic language skills at level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  • Your first steps learning German
  • Proof of your learning success at level A1
  • Official and internationally recognized certificate

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Exam sections

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

  • Listening

    Duration: 20 minutes

    You listen to short everyday conversations, private telephone messages, information from the radio and answer questions related to them.

  • Reading

    Duration: 20 minutes

    You read short notes, ads, descriptions of people, simple letters to the editor or short newspaper texts and answer questions related to them.

  • Writing

    Duration: 20 minutes

    You write a response to an email, a letter, an ad, or something similar.

  • Speaking

    Duration: 15 minutes

    You introduce yourself, ask questions about everyday topics and answer simple questions. You also make requests and respond to your conversation partner in situations that are familiar to you.

More information

By passing the exam you show that you can ...

  • ask and answer simple questions, ask for something and respond to a request;

  • write simple phrases and sentences about yourself and others;

  • understand conversations and texts on familiar topics.

Exam information

Requirements

The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Fit in Deutsch 1 is a German exam for children and young people between the ages of 10 and 16.
The Goethe-Institut exams are generally open to anyone and can be taken regardless of age or nationality. The minimum age is only our recommendation. 

  • For the Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Fit in Deutsch 1, we recommend an age of 10+.

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

  • To reach this level you need – depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements – 80 to 200 lessons of 45 minutes each.

Exam preparation

Best preparation for the exam

  • Practice materials on site

    Check out additional practice materials and German-language media such as books and films at our on-site library in New York City.

    A man and a woman sit at a table in a library, both concentrating on reading. © Goethe-Institut/Daniel Albanese © Goethe-Institut/Daniel Albanese

  • Practice German for free

    Apps, games, social media and films in German – here you will find many offers specifically for children and young people.

    Screenshot from a computer game with text “The picture is gone!” © Goethe-Institut © Goethe-Institut

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Frequently asked questions

Further questions

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