Language skill level A1 Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1

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).

Proof of language skills for the visa for spousal reunification
Proof of your learning success at level A1
Official and internationally recognized certificate

None of these dates work for you?

We also offer individual exam appointments. Please contact us at exams-usa@goethe.de

Exam sections

The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start 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, telephone messages or public announcements and answer questions related to them.
Reading

Duration: 25 minutes

You read texts such as short notes, ads, information signs or notices and answer questions related to them.
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. After that, you ask and answer questions from everyday life and ask someone from the group for something.

More information

By passing the exam you show that you can …

communicate in a simple way and can introduce yourself in a conversation as well as answer basic questions about yourself using gestures to support yourself;
use familiar and frequently used everyday expressions as well as simple sentences (e.g. information about the person and family, shopping, work or school, the living situation);
understand short, simple conversations in everyday situations when the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

Exam information

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 minimum age is only our recommendation.

For the Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1, we recommend an age of 16+.
The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start 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

Online exam trainings

Free practice materials for your exam preparation: online, interactive, and accessible.

A young woman studies online on a laptop. She sits comfortably on the floor cross-legged. She is leaning against a sofa. There are books and loose worksheets scattered on the floor. A paper cup with a coffee drink is in front of her.

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.

© Goethe-Institut/Daniel Albanese © Goethe-Institut/Daniel Albanese
Computer-based exams

Would you like to take the exam on a laptop? We offer selected exams on laptops at our institutes. You can find further information and tutorials here.
Web portal „Mein Weg nach Deutschland“

Here you will find useful information about living and working in Germany, as well as playful, interactive exercises to improve your German language skills.

Photo: © Alina Holtmann / Maridav Photo: © Alina Holtmann / Maridav