Goethe B2 Reading Part 5 – Regulations
In Part 5 you read a formal text such as regulations and answer questions about it. Here’s how to find the right rule.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- You read a formal text (e.g. study or house regulations) and solve 3 tasks.
- For each question, find the exact rule in the right section.
What this part tests
Part 5 tests whether you understand formal texts and find specific information – for example study regulations, house rules or terms and conditions. You answer three tasks by finding the matching rule in the text.
It’s about selective reading in a formal, often official language: for each question you look for the exact spot that contains the answer. Conditions, deadlines, obligations and exceptions matter.
The difficulty: the language is formal, and similar rules often stand close together. Watch for the exact case (e.g. “bei Krankheit” vs. “bei Abmeldung”). Every correct answer scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Get an overview of the sections (paragraphs) of the text.
- 2
Read each question and consider which section fits.
- 3
Find the exact rule in the matching section.
- 4
Watch for the exact case, the condition and exceptions.
- 5
Choose the option that reflects the rule exactly.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: find the right rule in the formal text.
Aus einer Bibliotheksordnung: „§ 3 Leihfristen: Bücher können vier Wochen ausgeliehen werden. Eine Verlängerung ist einmal möglich, sofern das Buch nicht vorgemerkt ist."
Under what condition can you extend the loan period?
- aimmer, beliebig oft
- einmal, wenn das Buch nicht vorgemerkt ist
- cgar nicht
Why? The regulations say extension is “einmal möglich, sofern das Buch nicht vorgemerkt ist” – that’s b. (a) and (c) contradict the rule.
Practice: test yourself
Aus einer Prüfungsordnung (sinngemäß): „§ 4 Abmeldung: Eine Abmeldung von der Prüfung ist bis spätestens drei Tage vorher schriftlich möglich. Bei Krankheit am Prüfungstag ist ein ärztliches Attest vorzulegen."
What must you do if you are ill on the exam day?
Common mistakes
Similar rules stand close together. Watch exactly which case is meant (e.g. illness vs. deregistration).
“außer”, “nur bei”, “spätestens” change the rule. Read carefully.
Look specifically for the relevant spot instead of translating every sentence.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess an option if you have to.
Tips
- Use the section headings (paragraphs) for orientation.
- Watch for deadlines, conditions and exceptions.
- Practice reading regulations, terms and official texts.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 5 have?
Three tasks on a formal text such as regulations or terms.
What should I watch for in Part 5?
The exact case, conditions, deadlines and exceptions. For each question, find the matching rule in the right section.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – answer every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 5?
Read regulations, terms and official texts and practice finding rules. With a Prepliq mock you get the answer explained after each task.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 700+ of the most important Goethe-Zertifikat B2 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official Goethe-Zertifikat B2 practice test – with answers and study material.