Goethe-Zertifikat B1
Confident Independent German
B1 is the third level on the six-step scale of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It marks the stage of independent language use — the ability to manage everyday life in German on your own when people speak clearly. The exam was developed jointly by the Goethe-Institut, the Austrian ÖSD, and the University of Fribourg, and is taken worldwide to the same standard.
At B1, you can communicate on your own
Understand the essentials
Follow the main points when clear standard language is used about familiar matters from work, school, and leisure.
Travel with confidence
Cope with most situations that come up while travelling in German-speaking countries.
Express yourself clearly
Speak and write simply and coherently about familiar topics and personal interests.
Explain and reflect
Describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and goals, and give short reasons or explanations.
Four modules, one clear standard
Each module is graded out of 100 points, and you pass at 60%. You can sit all four together or one skill at a time.
Reading
Lesen
- Read personal correspondence and emails
- Understand information and argumentation in the press
- Read to orient yourself among short notices
- Follow written instructions and house rules
Listening
Hören
- Understand announcements, messages, and instructions
- Follow a talk as a member of the audience
- Understand conversations between native speakers
- Understand radio broadcasts and recordings
Writing
Schreiben
- Write a personal email to keep in touch
- Share your opinion in a discussion post
- Write a polite, situation-appropriate message
Speaking
Sprechen
- Plan something together with a partner
- Present a topic across five guided slides
- Give feedback and respond to questions
Ready to work toward B1?
Structured lessons, flexible study, and a real focus on speaking — a one-time payment of 24,99 € for lifetime access.