German Language Exams: Telc

The telc German language exam is an internationally recognized proof of German language skills, covering all levels from A1 to C2. The exams are developed by telc gGmbH and offered worldwide through a network of authorized exam centers – typically independent language schools or educational institutions. They are aimed at people learning German as a foreign or second language who want to officially certify their skills – for example for university, work, naturalization, or a residence permit. The focus is on the ability to use German in authentic communication situations.

Exam types

Telc offers exams for adults, young people, and children, including exams for professional groups with specific language requirements – such as in the medical field. Alongside German exams from A1 to C2, the range also includes exams in other languages such as English, French, Spanish, Turkish, and Arabic.

Registration and fees

Registration does not take place directly with telc gGmbH but through an authorized exam center. The telc website provides a search tool for finding suitable exam locations by country, city, or postal code. Registration itself is then handled directly with the chosen center – by phone, email, or in person. Dates and further details are organized by the respective exam center. The exam can be taken in paper-based, digital, or combined format, depending on availability.

Fees are not set uniformly by telc gGmbH but determined by individual exam centers and may vary by location and level. Current prices should therefore be requested directly from the relevant exam center.

Exam structure

All telc exams consist of a written and an oral section. The written section covers reading, listening, and language elements; the oral section assesses speaking. Depending on the level and exam center, both sections can be taken on the same day or at two separate sittings – with no more than seven days between them. Scope and time allowances increase with the level. Detailed information on the format is available from the relevant exam center.

Content and requirements

The tasks are focused on communicative ability in realistic situations. In the written section, reading and listening are tested through formats such as multiple-choice and matching tasks; the written expression section requires producing texts on given topics. The oral exam centers on communicative exchange: candidates plan something together and discuss a topic with each other.

Since content and requirements differ by level, the specific task formats are described in detail in the exam descriptions on the telc website. Overall, complexity, vocabulary and grammar demands, and communicative expectations increase with each level.

Preparation materials

Free practice tests are available for download on the telc website; additional materials are available for purchase in the telc shop. Preparation materials include tasks in the actual exam format, self-assessment tests, and tips and strategies for typical exam tasks. Telc also offers exam training for independent study as well as live online training in small groups, where exam sections are practiced together and strategies for approaching tasks are developed.

Options if the exam is failed

A telc exam that has not been passed can be retaken as many times as needed – there is no waiting period or special procedure. Whether the entire exam or only individual parts need to be repeated depends on the level in question. Those who disagree with their assessment can submit an official complaint through an online form on the telc website. A re-evaluation is possible in principle but is only carried out when there are plausible grounds to suggest a marking error.

Certificate after passing

After passing the exam, candidates receive an official telc certificate. From the first quarter of 2026, this will be issued digitally as standard – as a tamper-proof PDF with a qualified digital signature, sent by email and printable if needed. Results are generally processed within four to six weeks and then communicated by the exam center. The authenticity of a certificate can be verified via the telc verification portal using the QR code.