Goethe 2025 Test Training
What is Goethe ?
The Goethe-Zertifikat exams are diplomas awarded by the Goethe Institute, jointly with the ÖSD and the University of Fribourg/Switzerland. They are intended for people who want to have their German level officially recognized on the scale of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
These diploma exams are recognized internationally, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Depending on the level achieved, they allow you to complete administrative procedures, apply for university courses, or apply for jobs in the private or public sector.
The Goethe-Zertifikat tests cover levels A1 (beginner) to C2 (expert). From level A1 to level B2, each test is available in two versions:
- a version intended for children and adolescents from 10 years old (Goethe A1), 12 years old (Goethe A2 and B1) or 15 years old (Goethe B2);
- a version intended for adults over 16 (for all levels from A1 to B2).
The level and structure of the tests are identical in both versions. Only the topics vary depending on the target audience. However, the Goethe C1 (from 16 years old) and the Goethe C2 (from 18 years old) only exist in adult versions.
Goethe-Zertifikat certifications are valid for life. However, some employers or universities may require a test taken less than two years ago.
This article mainly covers Goethe B1 and B2.
The Goethe Trials
All Goethe tests, including level B1 and B2, assess the four fundamental language skills:
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Written comprehension (Reading/ Lesen );
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Listening comprehension (Listen/ Hören );
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Written expression (Write/ Schreiben );
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Oral expression (Speaking/ Sprechen ).
Regardless of the level, the four modules of the Goethe-Zertifikat can be taken together or separately.
Reading comprehension ( Lesen )
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Goethe B1
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Goethe B2
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Duration
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65 minutes
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65 minutes
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Number of questions
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30
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30
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Content of the test
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You read different types of texts (blog articles, newspaper articles, email announcements, letters, user manuals, etc.), then answer questions:
- in the form of multiple choice questions (MCQs) with 2 or 3 answer options;
- of associations between statements and written documents;
- of true/false type.
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You read various texts (forum messages, newspaper or magazine articles, testimonials, user manuals, etc.), then answer questions:
- in the form of a multiple-choice questionnaire with 3 possible answers;
- of associations between statements and written documents;
- in the form of a fill-in-the-blank text.
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Listening comprehension ( Hören )
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Goethe B1
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Goethe B2
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Duration
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40 minutes
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40 minutes
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Number of questions
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30
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30
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Content of the test
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You listen to several audio recordings (announcements, dialogues, discussions and radio broadcasts) divided into 4 parts, then answer multiple-choice or true/false type questions.
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You listen to various audio recordings (conversations and statements, interviews, dialogues between several people, monologues) divided into 4 parts, then answer multiple-choice or true/false type questions.
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Written expression ( Schreiben )
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Goethe B1
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Goethe B2
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Duration
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60 minutes
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75 minutes
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Number of exercises
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3
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2
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Content of the test
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You must:
- Write an informal email related to a communication situation (approximately 80 words);
- Express your personal opinion on a subject (approximately 80 words);
- Write a formal email (about 40 words).
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You must:
- Write a message on a forum related to a current or social topic (approximately 150 words);
- Write a formal message (about 100 words).
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Oral expression ( Sprechen )
The oral expression test takes place either alone with the examiner or in pairs with another candidate.
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Goethe B1
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Goethe B2
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Duration
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10 to 15 minutes (and 15 minutes of preparation)
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10 to 15 minutes (and 15 minutes of preparation)
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Number of exercises
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3
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2
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Content of the test
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You must:
- Plan an event in pairs (making suggestions and expressing your opinions);
- Present a given subject (by describing it and arguing);
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React to a situation (by answering questions about your presentation).
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You must:
- Present a subject (by describing it and arguing);
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Debate with the examiner (or the other candidate) on a set topic (defending your point of view and responding to your interlocutor's arguments).
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Understanding the notation
The four Goethe B1 and Goethe B2 tests are marked separately, each from 0 to 100 points.
Grading of written and oral comprehension tests
For both levels (B1 and B2), the reading and listening comprehension tests consist of 30 questions. Each correct answer is worth 1 point (incorrect answers are not penalized).
The score obtained is then multiplied by 3.33 to bring it back to 100 points, then rounded to the nearest unit.
Grading of written and oral expression tests
The written and oral expression tests are assessed by two independent examiners. The points per test are distributed as follows:
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Goethe B1
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Goethe B2
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Written expression
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Exercise 1: 40 points
Exercise 2: 40 points
Exercise 3: 20 points
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Exercise 1: 60 points
Exercise 2: 40 points
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Oral expression
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Exercise 1: 28 points
Exercise 2: 40 points
Exercise 3: 16 points
Pronunciation: 16 points
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Exercise 1: 44 points
Exercise 2: 40 points
Pronunciation: 16 points
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To pass a module, you must obtain at least 60 points out of 100. Depending on your mark, the results are accompanied by a mention:
- From 60 to 69 points: “adequate” grade;
- From 70 to 79 points: “satisfactory”;
- From 80 to 89 points: “good”;
- From 90 to 100 points: “very good” grade.
If you pass all four modules, you will receive a single certificate of completion. If you fail one or more modules, you will receive a separate certificate for each module passed. You can then retake the other modules as many times as necessary.
How to train for the Goethe ?
Goethe certifications are standardized tests that assess your German proficiency in four core skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. To maximize your chances of success, it is recommended to plan a practice session several weeks before the exam.
To help you, PrepMyFuture offers preparation for the Goethe B1 test and preparation for the Goethe B2 test , each including more than 65 course sheets, 1,750 questions and 3 practice tests to help you practice in real conditions.
Please note: Discover our completely free Goethe B1 mini-test and our Goethe B2 mini-test ! These placement tests will help you assess your initial level and adapt your Goethe training accordingly.
How to register for the exam ?
Registration for Goethe B1 and Goethe B2 is done directly with one of the Goethe Institutes located in France or abroad.
To register, simply select the institute of your choice, choose an exam date, and specify the modules you wish to take. You must then create an online account, enter your personal information, and then pay the registration fee. As a guide, taking the full exam in France costs approximately €195 for the Goethe B1 and €210 for the Goethe B2.
A valid ID is required upon registration and must be presented on the day of the test.
Where to take the test ?
The Goethe B1 and Goethe B2 tests can be taken at one of the many authorized testing centers around the world. In France, around thirty centers are authorized to organize these tests, whether at Goethe Institute branches or at partner institutions (Alliances Françaises, Franco-German centers, higher education institutions, etc.).
Depending on the testing center, the test can be taken on paper or on a computer.
Why take the Goethe ?
The Goethe-Zertifikat tests are among the most internationally recognized German certifications. They officially certify your level according to the CEFR scale and are a real asset in an academic or professional career.
The Goethe B1 is recognized by German authorities for administrative procedures, such as family reunification. It certifies that you are able to understand the essential information of a conversation and express yourself on familiar or everyday topics.
As for the Goethe B2, it is often required for access to higher education, job applications or to enhance a CV in sectors requiring a good level of German (teaching, international relations, business, etc.). It certifies that you can understand complex texts and communicate in German fluently and spontaneously on a variety of topics.
Tips for passing the Goethe
Beyond your German language skills, success in the four modules of the Goethe-Zertifikat depends largely on your mastery of the exam format.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with the structure and instructions for the four modules, including the different types of questions encountered in the comprehension tests. In speaking, practice speaking alone or in pairs. Remember that the test also requires you to be able to describe, argue, and respond to your interlocutors' questions.
Each test is timed: we therefore advise you to practice regularly in conditions close to those of the official exam, in order to learn to manage your time.
Finally, expose yourself to German as often as possible: read press articles, listen to podcasts, and watch videos in the original language. This daily immersion in the language will help you enrich your vocabulary and improve your pronunciation.
With regular and targeted Goethe training, you will have every chance of succeeding in all four modules of the exam!
