German language examinations

GOETHE INSTITUT EXAMS:

The Goethe Institute is responsible the development of these prestigious and widely recognized international exams. They are usually held twice a year in January and March. Enrolment is usually two months before the exam date.

1. Start Deutsch 1 and Fit in Deutsch 1 (A1). These two examinations correspond to level A1 in the European Union framework. Minimum admission age for the first exam is 16 and from 10 to 15 years for the second exam.

These diplomas show that a learner can deal with everyday written and spoken situations and respond appropriately.

1. Start Deutsch 2 and Fit in Deutsch 2 (A2). These two tests correspond to level A2 of the European Union framework. Admission age for the former exam is 16 and for the second exam from 10 to 15 years old. Passing these diplomas is a demonstration that the student understands more complex language and can respond appropriately both orally and in writing.

1. Zertifikat Deutsch (ZD)/Zertifikat Deutsch Für Jungendliche (B1). This exam is regarded as proof of a good basic knowledge of German. The owner of this certificate has mastered a basic vocabulary of about 2000 words and the most important grammatical structures. Participation in general and everyday subjects is guaranteed. Admission age is 16 for the former exam and from 12 to 15 for the second exam.

1. Zertifikat Deutsch für den Beruf. (ZDfB) (B2). This certificate shows that candidates are able to manage everyday professional situations. Candidates can understand simple texts on economics, write routine letters, or respond appropriately to professional communications. Admission age is 16.

1. Zentrale Mittelstufenprüfung (ZMP) (C1). Candidates to this exam will have completed at least 800 hours of study of German. Some German universities accept this exam as proof of a sufficient level to study at university.

1. Prüfung Wirtschaftsdeutsch International (PWD) (C1). The test is made in cooperation with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry and an internationally recognized certificate is awarded.

Candidates must be able to express themselves fluently orally and in writing when discussing economic and professional issues. Admission age is 18.

1. Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom (KDS) and Grosses Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS) (C2). These medium and high diplomas are awarded by the Goethe-Institut together with the University of Munich. The KDS and the GDS are widely recognised by German universities as valid qualifications for university studies. Minimum age is 18.

More information: www.goethe.de