Goethe-Zertifikat B1 – Guide: format, scoring & tips

It has four modules: reading, listening, writing and speaking. Reading, listening and writing are written; speaking is oral and usually takes place in pairs with a partner. You can take the modules together or separately.

The modules last: reading 65 minutes, listening around 40 minutes, writing 60 minutes and speaking around 15 minutes (plus about 15 minutes of preparation). With breaks it’s roughly half a day in total.

Each module is scored out of 100 points. To pass you need at least 60 of 100 points (60 %) in each module. Each module is graded separately.

Yes. In the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 you can retake a module you didn’t pass on its own, without redoing the whole exam.

Both certify the B1 level but have a slightly different format. The Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is modular, so you can take the four modules separately. Check which exam your exam center offers.

Practice each module separately, do full model tests and get feedback above all for writing and speaking. At Prepliq you do realistic mock exams with instant scoring – writing and speaking are graded automatically with reference to the published assessment criteria.

Each Goethe-Institut or exam center sets the fee itself. Ask your exam center directly for the current price and the next dates. Anyone who fails pays again for the next attempt. A Prepliq model test gives you feedback on every part, so you see where you stand.