TestDaF Listening (Hörverstehen) Part 1 – Conversation
In Part 1 you hear an everyday conversation at the university and note a short answer for each task. You hear it only once. Here’s how to write along reliably.
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Key takeaways
- You hear an everyday conversation at the university and note a short answer for each task.
- You hear the text only once. Note only keywords.
What this part tests
Part 1 tests whether you understand an everyday conversation from a university context – for example at the office, in advice or among students. You note a short answer for each task (a word, a number or a short phrase).
It’s about concrete information: dates, places, conditions, tasks. You must listen and write along briefly at the same time. Importantly, you hear the conversation only once.
The tasks follow the order of the conversation. Watch for exact details (times, numbers, names). Every correct answer scores points; watch your spelling when you transfer.
How to approach it
- 1
Before listening, read all tasks and mark what is asked.
- 2
Think about what information you need: a time, a place, a condition?
- 3
Listen to the conversation and immediately note the matching short answer.
- 4
Write only keywords – a word or a number is often enough.
- 5
At the end, transfer your answers neatly and correctly spelled.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: you hear a conversation and note the short answer.
„Die Bibliothek hat in der Prüfungszeit länger geöffnet – bis 24 Uhr. In den Semesterferien schließt sie schon um 18 Uhr."
Until when is the library open during exam time?
Why? In the conversation it says “in der Prüfungszeit länger geöffnet – bis 24 Uhr” (open longer during exam time – until midnight). The short answer is “bis 24 Uhr”. The 6 pm applies during the semester break.
Practice: test yourself
Du hörst (sinngemäß) ein Gespräch im Studierendensekretariat: „Für die Anmeldung zur Prüfung brauchen Sie das Formular und Ihren Studierendenausweis. Geben Sie beides bis spätestens Freitag ab."
What do you have to hand in by Friday?
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Common mistakes
Note only keywords. Whole sentences cost time and you miss the next information.
With only one listening you can’t get stuck. If you miss a task, move to the next.
Without knowing the tasks you don’t know what to listen for. Use the reading time.
Wrongly spelled answers can be marked wrong. Transfer carefully.
Tips
- Note only keywords, not whole sentences.
- Watch for exact details: times, numbers, places, conditions.
- Practice listening and writing along at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does listening Part 1 have?
Around eight tasks on a university conversation, for each of which you note a short answer.
Do I hear the conversation twice?
No, only once. Read the tasks beforehand and note immediately while listening.
How much do I have to write?
Only keywords – a word, a number or a short phrase. Whole sentences aren’t necessary.
What’s the best way to practice Part 1?
Listen to university conversations and practice noting keywords. In a Prepliq mock you practice this with instant scoring.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn the most important TestDaF vocabulary interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official TestDaF practice test – with answers and study material.
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