Pass telc, Goethe or ÖSD
with the complete prep course.

The passing threshold is 60% at all three providers, but it is applied differently. Goethe requires at least 60 of 100 points in each module (reading, listening, writing, speaking) separately. In the telc B1/B2 written exam you need 60% overall, and the sections can compensate for each other; the oral exam is scored separately and also requires 60%. At ÖSD, every exam part must be passed on its own. Your preparation strategy should match the scoring rules of your specific exam.

Both exams test the same CEFR level and both are officially recognized in Germany, so neither is easier in terms of content. The scoring works differently, though. In the telc B1/B2 written exam, a strong reading or listening result can make up for a weaker writing score. Goethe requires at least 60% in every module separately. Goethe certificates are often preferred for international university applications, while telc is very common for work and residence purposes in Germany. Check which certificate your university, employer, or authority accepts, then prepare for exactly that format.

As a rough guideline, total learning time from zero is about 350 to 650 hours for B1, 600 to 800 hours for B2, and 800 to 1,000 hours for C1. If you have already reached the target level, focused exam preparation typically takes 4 to 8 weeks: learning the format, completing timed mock exams, and strengthening your weakest section. This exam-specific phase matters more than most people expect, because knowing the format is worth real points.

For university admission in Germany or Austria you usually need C1; telc C1 Hochschule, the Goethe-Zertifikat C1, and ÖSD C1 are all widely accepted. For German citizenship or a settlement permit, a B1 certificate is generally required, and both telc and Goethe are accepted. For work, B2 is the common threshold for qualified positions, and regulated professions such as healthcare often require B2 or C1 with specific certificates. Each institution sets its own requirements, so confirm them before you register and then prepare for that exact exam.

You usually do not have to repeat everything. At Goethe, modules can be retaken individually as often as needed, and passed modules combine into a full certificate within one year. At telc, a passed written or oral part can be credited, so you only retake the failed part within twelve months. At ÖSD, failed parts can generally be repeated within a year. Rules can vary between exam centres, so confirm the details with yours before booking a retake.

Yes. You can start a full mock exam for free without creating an account, with the real exam format and real timing for telc, Goethe, or ÖSD at levels B1 to C1. If you then create a free account, you unlock the full scored breakdown of your answers and can track your progress across attempts.