Practice for the Goethe B1 2025 test

What is the Goethe B1 ?

The Goethe certifications are aimed at candidates wishing to formally validate their German language proficiency in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR). They facilitate administrative procedures, university applications, and job applications in the private and public sectors. Issued by the Goethe Institute, in collaboration with the ÖSD and the University of Fribourg (Switzerland), the certifications enjoy worldwide recognition, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 (intermediate level) certifies that you are able to understand the essentials of simple exchanges on familiar topics, to handle most situations during a trip to a German-speaking country, to express yourself clearly on personal topics, and to recount or briefly explain experiences, plans and opinions.

The B1 exam is available in two versions, with the same level and structure, only the themes vary according to the target audience:

• a version intended for children and adolescents (from 12 years old);
• a version intended for adults (from 16 years old).

Goethe certificates are valid for life, but institutions and employers require a test that is less than two years old.

The Goethe B1 exams

All Goethe exams, including level B1, examine the four essential language skills:

• Written comprehension (Reading/ Lesen );
• Listening comprehension (Listen/ Hören );
• Written expression (Write/ Schreiben );
• Oral expression (Speaking/ Sprechen ).

Candidates can complete all four modules simultaneously or individually.

Reading comprehension ( Lesen )

The test lasts 65 minutes. You read 5 different types of texts (articles, advertisements, emails, letters, user manuals, etc.), then answer 30 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.

Listening comprehension ( Hören )

In this 40-minute test, you listen to several audio documents (announcements, dialogues, discussions and radio broadcasts) organized into 4 sections and then you answer 30 multiple-choice or true/false type questions.

Written expression ( Schreiben )

This test lasts 60 minutes and includes 3 exercises:

• 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).

Oral expression ( Sprechen )

The oral exam takes place either alone with the examiner or in pairs with another candidate. Lasting 10 to 15 minutes (with 15 minutes of preparation), it includes 3 activities:

• Plan an event in pairs, making suggestions and expressing your opinions;
• Present a given subject, describing it and arguing;
• React to a situation by answering questions about your presentation.

Understanding the notation

Each Goethe module is marked separately out of 100 points.

Grading of written and oral comprehension tests

The reading and listening comprehension tests consist of 30 questions. Each correct answer is worth 1 point (with no penalty for errors). The total score obtained is multiplied by 3.33 to bring it back to 100 points, then rounded to the nearest whole number.

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:

Validation of a module requires a minimum of 60 points out of 100. The following mentions accompany your results:

• 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.

Successful completion of all four modules results in a single overall certificate. In the event of partial failure, you receive an individual certificate for each module passed, with the option to retake missed modules at a later date.

How to train for the Goethe B1 ?

The Goethe Exams are standardized assessments that evaluate your German language skills in all four language areas. Preparing for the exam several weeks in advance maximizes your chances of success.

PrepMyFuture offers a Goethe B1 test preparation program that includes 70 course sheets, 1,800 questions, and three practice tests to help you practice in real-life conditions. Also, check out our free Goethe B1 mini-test ! This placement test helps you assess your skills and target your Goethe B1 practice.

Are you aiming for the Goethe B2? Visit our page dedicated to preparing for the Goethe B2 test !

How to register for the exam ?

Registration for the Goethe is done at the Goethe Institutes located in France (located in Lyon, Marseille, Nancy, Paris and Toulouse) or in other countries.

Choose your test center, a date, and indicate the desired modules. After creating and completing your personal account, you will be asked to pay the registration fee. The full Goethe B1 exam for adults in France costs approximately 195 euros.

A valid identity document will be requested upon registration and must be presented during the tests.

Where to take the test ?

Goethe exams are held at multiple accredited centers. France has around thirty accredited sites, including the offices of the Goethe Institute and partner organizations (Alliances Françaises, Franco-German institutes, universities, etc.).

The methods of passage (paper or computer) vary depending on the centers.

Why take the Goethe B1 ?

The Goethe-Zertifikat exams are among the most widely recognized German language qualifications. They formally validate a CEFR level and represent a significant advantage in your academic or professional development.

The Goethe B1 is recognized by German authorities for various procedures, including family reunification. This certification attests to your ability to grasp key elements of communication and communicate on common or everyday topics.

It not only provides leverage for international professional development, but also provides concrete proof of your language skills to access positions requiring a solid command of German.

Tips for passing the Goethe B1

In addition to your language proficiency, success in the four modules of the Goethe-Zertifikat depends largely on your knowledge of the exam format.

Familiarize yourself with the structure and instructions of the four modules, particularly the different categories of questions in the comprehension tests. For the oral part, practice individual presentations and interactions.

Since time is limited for each module, practice frequently under conditions similar to the actual exam to help you manage your time well.

To ensure you maintain your level, increase your contact with German: consult the German-language press, read the press, listen to podcasts and watch films or series in the original version.

GOETHE B1 2025 test training