ÖSD B1 Exam Guide: Structure, Points and Pass Mark (ZDÖ B1)

This guide covers the ÖSD Zertifikat Deutsch Österreich B1 (ZDÖ B1): how the exam is built, how many points each part is worth, what you need to pass, and how to prepare. It is the format our ÖSD B1 mock exams follow.

Which ÖSD B1 Are You Taking?

ÖSD runs two B1 exams, and they are built differently. The ZDÖ B1 is ÖSD's own exam, with one written part and a separate oral exam. ÖSD also offers the Zertifikat B1 together with the Goethe-Institut, which uses the Goethe B1 format of four separate modules. Check which one your registration names before you plan your preparation. Everything below is about the ZDÖ B1.

Structure and Points: 225 Written, 75 Oral

How Many Points Do You Need to Pass?

You pass the written part with at least 135 of 225 points (60%). There is no separate minimum for each section, so points you gain in Leseverstehen can make up for a weaker Hörverstehen. The oral exam needs at least 45 of its 75 points.

Preparing with Mock Exams and Redemittel

The most reliable preparation is a complete ÖSD B1 Modelltest under real timing, followed by an honest look at where you lost points. Schreiben is worth 45 points for a single email, so the phrases for formal and informal emails are worth learning by heart.

Tips for the ÖSD B1

• Use the shared total: since the written sections share one pass mark, make sure your strongest sections are as strong as they can be, rather than spreading your time evenly.
• Get the register right: read the email task carefully and decide straight away whether it is formal or informal. The opening and closing set the tone for the whole text.
• Learn the topics: work, health, housing, leisure and the media come up again and again at B1.
• Practise against the clock: sit at least one full mock exam in one go, so the timing on exam day does not surprise you.