German A1, A2, B1 or B2: which level is right for you?
Good preparation starts with the right goal. Understand the differences between A1 and B2 and choose a practice app that fits your exam.
What do A1, A2, B1 and B2 mean?
These labels come from the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). They describe what you can understand and express in a language. A1 and A2 cover basic language use; B1 and B2 describe independent language use. A fixed number of study hours or vocabulary words does not determine your level on its own.
| Level | Your focus | App |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Simple sentences, introducing yourself and first everyday situations. | GOETHE / TELC ↗ |
| A2 | Familiar topics, short conversations and simple messages. | GOETHE ↗ |
| B1 | Describe experiences, explain opinions and manage daily life. | TELC ↗ |
| B2 | Understand complex texts and explain your point of view. | TELC ↗ |
A1: Your starting point in German
At A1 you work with simple expressions and sentences. You introduce yourself, share personal information and take part in short conversations. Useful preparation includes everyday texts, simple listening situations, short messages and answers to personal questions.
Our A1 app for Goethe and telc supports all four skills and includes AI feedback on writing and speaking.
A2: More confidence in familiar situations
At A2 you understand common expressions about shopping, family or work. You exchange information in simple situations and describe your surroundings. Revise useful everyday vocabulary and practise writing short, connected messages.
The Goethe A2 app provides exercises, flashcards and grammar practice to support your preparation.
B1: Communicate more independently
B1 involves understanding the main points of clear standard language about familiar topics. You work on describing experiences, explaining plans and briefly giving reasons for your opinions. Alongside answering questions, practise producing your own written and spoken responses.
Use the telc B1 app for reading and listening, vocabulary and grammar, and preparation for writing and speaking.
B2: Understand and express more nuance
At B2 you engage with more complex texts and discussions. You learn to explain viewpoints clearly and discuss advantages and disadvantages. Include longer texts, more demanding listening tasks and structured arguments in your study routine.
The telc B2 app supports this with relevant exercises, vocabulary and grammar.
How to choose your exam goal
- Confirm the exact requirement. Which level and exam provider do you actually need? Check with the organisation requesting your certificate.
- Assess where you are now. Take a placement test or ask a language school. This overview is only a guide.
- Choose the right format. Check whether you will take Goethe or telc. Your practice tasks should match your chosen exam.
The German citizenship test and Leben in Deutschland assess knowledge about Germany. They are not A1–B2 language exams. We offer a separate citizenship test app for those topics.
Prepare by exam provider
Goethe exam preparation: A1 and A2
telc exam preparation: A1, B1 and B2
Read next
Preparing for a German exam: practise reading, listening, writing and speaking
Level overview based on Council of Europe CEFR level descriptions.
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