Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the ÖSD exams
All information at a glance
General information about the ÖSD exam
Yes, the ÖSD certificate is recognized in Switzerland by many authorities, employers and educational institutions.
In Switzerland, there are several recognized examination centers that regularly offer ÖSD exams . We at ILS-Zürich also offer the ÖSD exams. With us, you benefit from many years of experience, a pleasant exam atmosphere, and personal support.
Die Termine variieren je nach Prüfungszentrum. Um mehr über die aktuellen Prüfungstermine bei uns zu erfahren, besuchen Sie bitte die entsprechende Seite auf unserer Website. Dort finden Sie alle aktuellen Daten und weitere Informationen zur Anmeldung. >>ÖSD-Prüfungstermine<<
Yes, there are differences in structure, assessment criteria, and, in some cases, recognition. All three certificates are internationally recognized, but some institutions prefer a specific certificate. It's advisable to check beforehand which certificate is required.
ils-zuerich.ch
ils-bern .ch
ils-aarau .ch
ils-basel
ils-stgallen.ch
Registration and preparation
The Registration is done directly through the respective examination center, usually online or in person. Information on dates and registration procedures for ILS-Zürich can be found here on our website: https://ils-zuerich.ch/sprachkurse/oesd-pruefungen-a1-a2-b1-b2-c1/
You will usually need a valid ID (passport or identity card). Some centers also require a passport photo.
Yes, deadlines vary by exam center. Early registration is recommended, as places may be limited. Learn more about our ÖSD exam dates at: https://ils-zuerich.ch/sprachkurse/oesd-pruefungen-a1-a2-b1-b2-c1/
Targeted preparation with official practice materials, preparation courses and mock tests is recommended. ILS-Zürich offers crash courses for the ÖSD exam: https://ils-zuerich.ch/sprachkurse/crash-kurse-oesd-vorbereitung-in-zuerich/
Yes, official practice materials and mock tests are available on the ÖSD website . The official ÖSD preparation books are also available through Orell Füssli.
Fees vary depending on the exam center and level. Typically, fees range between CHF 120 and CHF 300. Please contact the exam center for exact prices. Prices at ILS-Zürich can be found here: https://ils-zuerich.ch/sprachkurse/oesd-pruefungen-a1-a2-b1-b2-c1/
Yes, you can retake the exam as many times as you like. However, you will be charged an exam fee for each attempt.
Examination procedure
The exam consists of four parts: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. The requirements and duration vary depending on the level.
The total duration varies depending on the level. A B1 exam, for example, takes approximately 3 hours, including breaks.
All levels test the four basic skills: reading, listening, writing and speaking.
The oral exam is usually conducted in pairs or small groups. It consists of tasks such as monologues, dialogues, and role-playing.
Each part of the exam is graded separately. To pass, you must achieve at least the specified score in each part.
As a rule, no aids such as dictionaries or electronic devices may be used during the exam.
The exam rules are strict. Attempts at cheating or violations of the rules will result in disqualification.
Results and certificates
Results are usually communicated by email or mail within two to four weeks after the exam. You will receive the certificate at the exam center.
The ÖSD certificate is valid indefinitely. However, authorities or employers may require that the certificate be no older than two years.
You can repeat the exam or individual parts as often as you like.
You can repeat each exam or module as often as you like.
For examinations with a written module (reading, listening, writing), this part must be repeated in its entirety, even if only one part was failed.
If you fail an exam, it is recommended that you wait at least four weeks before attempting the exam again.
Examinations with two modules
ÖSD exams, which consist of two modules – a written exam (reading, listening, writing) and an oral exam (speaking) – can be taken either together or individually.
Examinations with four modules
Both the ÖSD Certificate B1 and the ÖSD Certificate C2 consist of four modules (reading, listening, writing and speaking), which can be taken individually or in combination.
No, the results will only be communicated to you personally. You can share the certificate yourself with authorities or employers.
You can request a duplicate copy from the examination center for a fee.
Other
Yes, upon request and with appropriate proof, compensation for disadvantages such as extended examination time can be granted.
If you have any questions, please contact the examination center or the ÖSD headquarters directly.
You can contact ILS via the following pages:
Alternatives include the Goethe Certificate or telc German. All are internationally recognized. You can also fide-Test but prefer fide-Test is only recognized in Switzerland.
Yes, the ÖSD certificate is accepted by many authorities as proof of language proficiency for visa applications. Please check with the relevant authority.
No, the ÖSD exam is specifically designed for German as a foreign and second language.