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Obtaining a German Language Certification is necessary if you want to live, work, or study in a German-speaking country. Some of the top German language certifications include Goethe-Zertifikat Exams, TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache), Telc (The European Language Certificates) and Test of German for Immigrants (DTZ).
According to a recent report from Germany’s Federal Statistical Office, over 2.7 million people migrated to Germany, marking one of the highest migration rates in recent years. A large percentage of these were international students, IT professionals, engineers, and healthcare workers. As a result, German language proficiency is a mandatory requirement for study, work, and residency in these countries.
Whether you're applying to a German university, aiming for a job in Berlin’s booming tech scene, or planning to settle in Vienna or Zurich, you’ll likely need to prove your German skills through recognized language certifications. To help you with getting your German language certification, here is a guide through the top 8 German language certifications, explaining who they’re for, what levels they cover, and why each one might be your best path forward depending on your goals
The German language certification offers standardized exams to validate your language proficiency and open doors to educational institutions, visa approvals, job opportunities, and even permanent residency. A high-quality German Language Course can help you master the German Language starting from the beginner level. Before that take a look at the top 8 German language certifications:
The Goethe-Zertifikat exams are internationally recognized certifications offered by the Goethe-Institut, providing a comprehensive assessment of German language proficiency. Ranging from A1 (basic skills) to C2 (near-native fluency), these exams cover various levels of language competency.
Achieving a Goethe-Zertifikat validates your language skills and enhances your chances of studying, working, or living in German-speaking countries. The exams assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities. Here is the list of Goethe-Zertifikat Exams for all levels of ability, ranging from A1 to C2.
If you're just getting started, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with 20 Phrases Every German Beginner Must Know to build a strong foundation for your exam preparation. Here is the list of Goethe-Zertifikat Exams for all levels of ability, ranging from A1 to C2.
| GOETHE Exams | Who is it for? |
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT A1 |
Young people (Fit in Deutsch 1) and Adults (Start Deutsch 1)
|
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT A2 |
Young people (Fit in Deutsch) and Adults
|
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT B1 |
Young people and Adults
|
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT B2 |
Young people and Adults
|
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT C1 | Adults |
| GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT C2 | Adults |
| Goethe-Test PRO |
For professionals
|
The TestDaF, or Test of German as a Foreign Language, is a standardized examination that assesses the proficiency of non-native German speakers. The TestDaF is an advanced-level language exam. It covers levels B2 to C1 on the six-level scale of competence laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Many universities require a certain TestDaF score as proof of language proficiency. Here are a few reasons to choose TestDAF;
TestDaF Exam Format
Eligibility: Intermediate-level knowledge of the German Language
TestDaF Score Validity: Unlimited Period
After preparing for the exam, you can register for the test at the TestDaF Official Website www.testdaf.de/de
Telc, short for The European Language Certificates, offers a range of German language certifications. These certifications demonstrate your language proficiency in German and can open doors to academic opportunities, career advancements, and personal growth.
The telc German examinations are designed for various target groups at different life stages. For children, teenagers, and young adults, telc offers Junior, School, and University examinations that cover levels A1 to C1. For adults, the focus is on general and vocational language skills across all CEFR levels. Additionally, there are specialist examinations available for professionals in the fields of medicine and nursing.
The following is the list of telc certification exams;
Telc Exam Format
The telc exam assesses language proficiency through written and oral components.
The Test of German for Immigrants (DTZ) is an exam for individuals seeking German citizenship or permanent residence in Germany. The DTZ holds great significance as it is a requirement for individuals to demonstrate sufficient German language proficiency for integration purposes.
By successfully passing the DTZ, individuals can enhance their opportunities for integration into German-speaking communities, improve social interactions, and build a stronger foundation for their future in Germany. After the exam, you will receive a certificate that documents your overall language skills at skill level B1 or A2.
DTZ Test Format
The DTZ consists of a written and an oral test.
The Deutsches Sprachdiplom (DSD) offers various German language certifications catering to different learner groups. DSD A1 focuses on young learners and aims to develop basic language skills necessary for communication. DSD A2/B1 is designed for secondary school students, assessing their intermediate language skills for everyday conversations and academic purposes. To get a complete understanding of German language levels, from A1 To C2 - Exploring German Language Levels will be a good idea.
The DSD certifications provide a structured pathway for language development and open doors to educational and career opportunities for learners of different ages. DSD B2/C1 targets advanced language proficiency needed for university admission and professional contexts.
The DSD exam has four equally weighted parts: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written communication, and oral communication. The Deutsches Sprachdiplom (DSD) consists of two main levels:
DSD I:
DSD II:
The WiDaF is a globally recognized exam assessing proficiency in business German. It's used by companies to evaluate training effectiveness and by both students and professionals to demonstrate their German language skills in a business context. The exam is designed to assess mastery of the German language relevant to international business scenarios.
The WiDaF exam assesses German language proficiency in a business context across three levels, corresponding to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Here are the 3 levels;
Level A (Basic User)
Level B (Independent User)
Level C (Proficient User)
The Zertifikat Deutsch für den Beruf (ZDfB) is an exam specifically designed to assess German language proficiency for professional purposes. ZDfB focuses on language skills necessary for effective communication in a work environment. It is managed by Telc GmbH and the Goethe Institute and corresponds to the CEFR B2 level.
The ZDfB certification is relevant in professional settings, especially for individuals seeking job opportunities in German-speaking countries. It showcases the ability to communicate fluently, understand business-related texts, and interact professionally. One of the benefits of Learning the German Language for your professional career is that it can give you added motivation on your integration journey. The ZDfB certification can greatly enhance employment prospects and demonstrate the readiness to excel in a German-speaking work environment.
ZDfB Eligibility Criteria
ZDfB Test Format
The ÖSD, or Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch, is a series of German language certifications offered by the Austrian Language Diploma. It consists of levels ranging from A1 to C2, similar to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) is recognized internationally as proof of German language competence, and accepted by universities in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
The ÖSD certifications assess various language skills, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking. These certifications are recognized worldwide and are valuable for individuals looking to enhance their language proficiency, pursue academic opportunities, or advance their careers in German-speaking countries.
Exam Format
ÖSD exams consist of two modules;
Bonus PointOSD (Oxford German Olympiad)The Oxford German Olympiad (OSD) is an exam designed for students studying German language and culture. This certification allows students to showcase their language skills, creativity, and cultural understanding through various tasks and competitions. Participating in the OSD fosters language proficiency and a deeper appreciation and awareness of German culture. It encourages students to explore different aspects of the German language and engage in cultural exchanges. The OSD promotes language learning and celebrates the richness and diversity of the German-speaking world. |
German language certifications cater to diverse target audiences based on their needs, such as studying, working, or integrating into German society. This table provides a quick overview of various German language certificates, detailing who each is designed for and the corresponding CEFR levels.
| Certificate name | Who’s it for? | CEFR Level(s) |
| Goethe-Zertifikat | Students (youth & adults) Visa-seekers Workers in fields like hospitality and childcare Teachers & researchers (C2 level) |
A1 – C2 |
| Goethe-Test PRO | Professionals & business people | A1 – C2 |
| Goethe-Test PRO Pflege | Nursing professionals | B2 |
| TestDaF | University & graduate-level students Scientists |
B2 – C1 |
| telc (various tests) | Students Business people Medical professionals People seeking residency, visas, or citizenship |
A1 – C2 |
| DTZ | Immigrants | A2 – B1 |
| DSD | Students (university level) | A2/B1 (DSD I) or B2/C1 (DSD II) |
Obtaining a German language certification can significantly enhance your personal, academic, and professional growth. Whether you choose the Goethe-Zertifikat exams, TestDaF, ÖSD, Telc, DTZ, DSD, Goethe Business Certificates, ZDfB, OSD, or the German language course at Edoxi Training Institute, each option offers unique benefits to suit your specific goals. Invest in improving your German language skills and open doors to exciting opportunities in a multicultural world.
