ZUSAMMENLEBEN
Supporting integration, housing, and community connection for newcomers and locals in the area.
© Copyright 2026 Zusammenleben - All Rights Reserved
Levels, Certificates, Exams, and Registration — The Complete Guide.
In Germany, simply stating "I speak German" is not an argument an authority accepts. In many cases, official proof in the form of a certificate from a recognized institution is mandatory. You will need it primarily for:
In most cases, proof of German at the B1 level is required, alongside a "Leben in Deutschland" exam or orientation course.
Applicants under Section 10 of the Citizenship Act must prove B1 level German. Note: The citizenship test checks knowledge, not language skills.
Many employers, vocational schools, and universities require a certificate. Recognizing qualifications acquired in Ukraine often requires a specific language level.
The certificate is the official document proving you have successfully completed the course.
All certificates in Germany are based on a uniform European six-level scale. The critical level is B1 — the threshold for almost all significant rights (permanent residence, citizenship, professional recognition).
Basic phrases, introducing yourself, asking and answering very simple questions.
Understanding common everyday expressions, handling simple routines, understanding short texts like signs or ads.
Understanding main points regarding work and leisure, handling most everyday situations, describing experiences.
Conducting professional conversations, understanding complex texts, working in most standard workplaces.
Academic studies, senior professional roles, fluent and flexible language use.
Level close to a native speaker.
Best for: Integration course participants.
The standard integration course final exam. It provides a safety net: results range between A2 and B1. Even if you don't reach B1 in all areas, you may still walk away with an A2 certificate.
Best for: Independent learners needing a recognized B1.
Open to everyone without requiring an integration course. Offers more exam dates and locations. telc C1 Hochschule is accepted by almost all German universities.
Best for: International recognition and flexibility.
The most globally recognized certificate. Modular structure allows you to take and retake individual skills separately (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking).
Best for: Valid alternative.
An Austrian certificate that is fully recognized in Germany, including for citizenship at the B1 level. Less common in certain regions but completely valid.
If in an integration course, you will take the DTZ. Otherwise, choose telc or Goethe.
Start with the local VHS (Volkshochschule). It is usually the most accessible and affordable option.
DTZ registration closes at least 4 weeks prior. Goethe exams close 3-4 weeks ahead. No cancellations are allowed after the deadline.
ID or Passport. For DTZ, bring your eligibility/obligation document from BAMF, Jobcenter, or Immigration Office.
Usually via bank transfer by a specific deadline.
The course includes 700 hours (600 for language up to B1, 100 for orientation regarding German culture and law).
The situation changed twice this year. Always verify the current status.
In February 2026, BAMF paused voluntary participation approvals under Section 44(4). However, as of August 1, 2026, a new government directive reinstates voluntary integration course access for Ukrainian war refugees and others with labor market prospects.
Action: If you were rejected earlier this year, try again! Contact the Jobcenter or BAMF immediately.
A full integration course takes about 6 to 12 months. Intensive study outside class accelerates this.
For Goethe (B1+), you only retake the failed module. For DTZ via integration courses, you usually get one free retake.
Generally, language certificates do not expire, but some citizenship offices prefer certificates under 5-10 years old. Check locally.
No. Standardized exams (Goethe, telc, DTZ) must be taken in person at a certified center. Purely commercial online tests are usually not accepted.
Yes. Completing a German school (Hauptschule minimum) or a recognized vocational training (Ausbildung) in Germany replaces the B1 requirement.
Yes, the "Integration Course with Child Plus" program runs until the end of 2026, offering free childcare. Search via BAMF-NAvI.
We can assist with understanding BAMF/Jobcenter letters, locating test centers, and navigating the registration process. However, we cannot influence exam results or BAMF decisions.
Supporting integration, housing, and community connection for newcomers and locals in the area.
© Copyright 2026 Zusammenleben - All Rights Reserved