Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the telc exam
All information at a glance
Preparation & Registration
The telc exams cover different language levels, from A1 to C2. You can find more information on the respective levels on our website.
Yes, it is possible to register at short notice as long as places are still available. However, please note the registration deadlines for the examinations.
As a rule, participants only need language skills to pass the level. In general, there is no minimum level. Further details can be found in the specific exam requirements on our website.
Examination procedure
Both parts of the exam always take place on the same day. You do not have to adjust to different examination dates.
Yes, individual needs (e.g. compensation for disadvantages) can be taken into account. Please contact us in good time so that we can make all the necessary arrangements.
Yes, the oral examination is often taken in a small group with other candidates. Details can be found in the information about your exam.
Exam day - What do I need to consider?
Allowed are:
- A valid ID (passport or identity card)
- Only pencils are allowed, no ballpoint pens
- Water bottle (transparent, without label)
No, no dictionaries or electronic aids are permitted during the exam.
There is no specific dress code, but we recommend that you wear appropriate and comfortable clothing.
If you arrive late, you may not be able to take the exam. Please make sure you arrive on time.
After the test
You can lodge an objection within 6-8 weeks of receiving the result. However, a new review is subject to a fee.
Yes, you can request a detailed evaluation of your results. This is helpful in order to work specifically on your weaknesses.
Important note: Participants must contact telc GmbH, as the examination providers no longer have access to the examination documents after the examinations have been sent out.
- QR code scan: Scan the QR code on the certificate with a smartphone. This will take you directly to the online verification of the certificate.
- Check the watermark: Hold the certificate up to the light to see the watermark embedded in the paper.
- Online examination: Visit the official telc website and use the certificate examination function offered there.
You can check your telc results in various ways:
- Check exam status online: Visit the official telc website to check the processing status of your exam.
- Contact: If you cannot find any information online, you can contact telc directly using the contact form.
- Ask the language school for the results: As a rule, the results are also sent to the institution where you took the exam.
The telc exams are assessed in a standardized way:
- Scoring: Each task has a fixed number of points. The total number of points varies depending on the exam format.
- Passed exam: To pass, you must achieve at least 60% of the total number of points.
- Areas of competence: The assessment is carried out separately for the written (e.g. reading comprehension, writing) and oral (e.g. speaking) parts.
Comparisons with other certificate examinations
Comparison:
Both examinations are internationally recognized language certificates for German as a foreign language. The Goethe-Zertifikat is offered by the Goethe-Institut and is very well known worldwide. The telc exams (The European Language Certificates) are developed by telc gGmbH and are also recognized throughout Europe.
Recommendation:
Both certificates are of high quality and are accepted by universities and employers. The choice often depends on where you want to submit the certificate and which examination centers are in your area.
Comparison:
The telc C1 exam is aimed at general language learners at an advanced level. The telc C1 Hochschule is specially designed for university entrance in Germany and is accepted by German universities as proof of language proficiency.
Recommendation:
If you want to study at a German university, you should choose the telc C1 Hochschule. For general purposes (e.g. work or everyday life) the normal telc C1 is sufficient.
Comparison:
telc is an internationally recognized language certificate that is valid in many European countries. The fide-Test is a language test specially developed for Switzerland, which is particularly relevant for residence and naturalization permits in Switzerland.
Recommendation:
For Switzerland (e.g. integration, naturalization), the fide-Test is often the better choice. For international or German purposes, telc is recommended.
The best thing to do is to work through sample tests from both providers and see which format suits you better.
Both are recognized examinations. ÖSD is particularly widespread in Austria, Goethe worldwide.
All three are suitable for university admission, but differ in format and recognition depending on the university.
Both are for Switzerland, but the fide-Test is designed for integration and naturalization, SDS rather for proof of general language skills.
Further questions
Yes, you can Register directly for the exam without attending a preparation course. However, it is recommended that you prepare well in order to achieve the best results.
Yes, telc offers exams in several languages, including English, French, Spanish and many others. You can find more information about the available languages on our website.
The examination results are only sent by post as standard. You will only receive a copy by e-mail on request.
telc certificates are internationally recognized:
- Educational institutions: Many universities and schools accept telc as proof of language proficiency.
- Professional recognition: Employers use telc certificates to assess language skills, especially in nursing and medical professions.
- Authorities: In Germany and other countries, telc certificates are recognized for residence permits and naturalization.
The telc B2 Beruf exam has a total of 300 points, divided into:
- Written part: 225 points, with tasks on reading comprehension, listening comprehension and writing.
- Oral part: 75 points, based on the oral examination.
To pass, you need at least 180 points (60%).