Goethe-Zertifikat (A1–C2) (Goethe-Zertifikat)
by Goethe-Institut
Validity: Lifetime validity (institutions may set their own recency requirements)
Levels & Pricing (USA)
- A1~$14060–80 min
- A2~$15580–100 min
- B1~$210170–190 min
- B2~$255190–210 min
- C1~$285220–240 min
- C2~$315240–260 min
Dates & Locations (USA)
Sessions offered regularly at Goethe-Institut locations and partner centers in the US.
Why Take This Exam?
University Admission
C1 commonly required for German-taught degree programs
Immigration
A1–B1 levels used for family reunification, permanent residency, and citizenship (requirements vary by federal state)
Career Mobility
Recognized by employers across DACH region
Personal Achievement
Official proof of German language proficiency
Exam Structure
Lesen (Reading)
Comprehension of various text types
Duration: 45–80 minMax Score: 25
Hören (Listening)
Understanding announcements, dialogues, interviews
Duration: 30–60 minMax Score: 25
Schreiben (Writing)
Composing notes, letters, essays depending on level
Duration: 30–80 minMax Score: 25
Sprechen (Speaking)
Presentations, discussions and role-plays
Duration: 10–20 minMax Score: 25
Recognition
- German Universities (B2/C1 typically required)
- BAMF and German Government Agencies
- Employers in Germany/Austria/Switzerland
- EU Blue Card and residency processes