The European Language Certificates – Deutsch (telc Deutsch)
by telc gGmbH
Does not expire
Relocation Pathways
| Country | Purpose | Requirement | Visa / Pathway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Work | Not required for visa; B1 recommended for daily life | — |
| Germany | Residency | B1 | — |
| Germany | Citizenship | B1 | — |
| Germany | University | C1 Hochschule | — |
| Austria | Work | A1 | Red-White-Red Card |
| Austria | Residency | B1 | — |
| Austria | Citizenship | B2 | — |
Levels & Pricing (USD)
- telc Deutsch A1~$1001h 10m
- telc Deutsch A2~$1201h 10m
- telc Deutsch B1~$1502h 30m
- telc Deutsch B2~$1752h 20m
- telc Deutsch C1~$2003h 35m
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule~$2003h 35m
Dates & Locations
Dates vary by test center. Available throughout the year in Germany and Austria.
Why Take telc Deutsch?
Integration Courses
telc Deutsch B1 is the standard exam at the end of Germany's integration courses (Integrationskurs). Passing it satisfies the language requirement for settlement permits.
German Residency & Citizenship
telc B1 for settlement permits and citizenship in Germany. telc B2 is accepted for Austrian citizenship.
University Admission
telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule is accepted by all German universities as proof of language proficiency for admission.
Austrian Immigration
telc A1 for the Austrian Red-White-Red Card. telc B1 for permanent residency. telc B2 for citizenship.
Exam Structure
Reading
Listening
Writing
Speaking
Free Practice Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
What is telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule?
It's a university-specific exam at C1 level recognized by all German universities. It's an alternative to TestDaF and DSH for proving German language proficiency for academic study.
Is telc accepted outside Germany?
telc is widely accepted in Germany and Austria. It's also recognized in Switzerland and by EU institutions, but Goethe certificates are more internationally recognized outside of Central Europe.
What is the DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer)?
The DTZ is the final exam for Germany's integration courses, developed by telc. It tests at A2–B1 level. Passing at B1 satisfies the language requirement for a settlement permit.
