German Language Certifications

These seven German language certifications measure your German language skills using the CEFR levels. Each of these tests provides an official assessment of German proficiency for learners in different situations. Generally, these exams are taken at authorized test centers on designated dates.

Goethe-Zertifikat

There are six types of Goethe-Zertifikat, each corresponding to a CEFR level from A1 through C2. These are administered by the Goethe-Institut, an independent organization dedicated to the study of German language and culture.

Different versions of the Goethe-Zertifikat tests for levels A1 (lower beginner) through B2 (upper intermediate) can be taken by both younger students and adults. The tests for the C1 and C2 levels, however, are for adults only. Students, visa seekers, or workers can all benefit from getting a Goethe-Zertifikat.

The Goethe-Zertifikat C2, also called Grosses Deutsches Sprachdiplom (Great German Language Diploma), measures a near-native mastery of German by non-native speakers. The test can be taken by any German learner over the age of sixteen. It works best for people who would like to teach, do research, or study in Germany.