The TELC B1 exam, also known as the Zertifikat Deutsch, is a major milestone for German learners. It proves you have a solid command of the language for everyday situations. But passing it requires a deep understanding of its format and a smart preparation strategy.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. To see the format in action, there's no better way than taking a practice test. Try a full, free TELC B1 Mock Exam on Sprachflow.
TELC B1 Exam Structure at a Glance
The exam is divided into two main parts: a written section and an oral section.
- Written Exam (Schriftliche Prüfung): 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Oral Exam (Mündliche Prüfung): Approximately 15 minutes (usually with a partner)
Let's look at each sub-test.
Written Exam Breakdown
| Section | Sub-test | Time Allotment | Task |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lesen | Leseverstehen Teil 1-3 | 90 mins (total for Lesen & Sprachbausteine) | Reading comprehension (global, detailed, selective) |
| Schreiben | Sprachbausteine Teil 1-2 | Cloze tests (grammar and vocabulary in context) | |
| Brief/Email | 30 mins | Writing an informal or semi-formal letter/email. | |
| Hören | Hörverstehen Teil 1-3 | approx. 30 mins | Listening comprehension (global, detailed, selective) |
Oral Exam Breakdown
| Section | Task | Time Allotment | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teil 1 | Kontaktaufnahme | ~3-4 mins | Getting to know your partner. |
| Teil 2 | Gespräch über ein Thema | ~5-6 mins | Presenting a topic and discussing it. |
| Teil 3 | Gemeinsam etwas planen | ~5-6 mins | Collaboratively planning an event or activity. |
Scoring and Passing the Exam
To pass, you must pass both the written and oral sections.
- Written Exam: You need at least 60% of the total possible points from the
Lesen,Sprachbausteine,Hören, andSchreibensections combined. - Oral Exam: You also need at least 60% in the
Mündliche Prüfung.
You don't need to pass every single sub-test, but a poor performance in one area must be compensated by a strong performance in another.
Key to Success: The single best way to prepare is through realistic simulation. An AI-powered platform like Sprachflow provides mock exams that mirror the exact timing, format, and scoring of the real test. Test your readiness now.
Preparation Strategy with AI
1. Diagnostic Test
Start with a full mock exam on Sprachflow. This will give you a baseline score and highlight your weak areas. Is it Sprachbausteine? Or perhaps the listening part?
2. Focused Practice
Use your diagnostic results to guide your study.
- Weak in
Leseverstehen? Read German articles daily and use Sprachflow's targeted reading exercises. - Struggling with the
Brief? Write practice emails and get instant AI feedback on grammar, tone, and structure. - Nervous about speaking? Practice with our AI speaking partner until the format feels second nature.
3. Timed Simulations
As your exam date approaches, focus on timed practice. The written exam is long, and time management is critical. Our mock exams enforce the real time limits, so you'll be prepared for the pressure.
The TELC B1 exam is challenging, but completely achievable with a structured approach. Understand the format, identify your weaknesses, and use modern tools to practice efficiently.
Don't leave your success to chance. Take a free, comprehensive TELC B1 mock exam on Sprachflow and start your targeted preparation today!