Goethe and Telc tests are nearly identical, however there are some differences. Telc is overall easier to pass compared to Goethe. It takes less time, has less points and writing part is much easier. Goethe is very long lasting if you pass all four points.
While in the telc test (level B1 and B2) there are only 30 minutes planned for the writing activity, in the Goethe exam the writing task takes up 60 minutes (B1) and 75 minutes (B2). This means that there is more emphasis placed on the writing task and the task will be more complex.
Are you wondering which exam to take? What the differences are? To make it short: there are no significant differences, as both – Goethe and telc – are recognized testing bodies. Just take the exam that suits you better in terms of testing dates and/or price (telc exams tend to be cheaper than the Goethe ones).
The testing formats are very similar, and both - Goethe and "telc" - are recognized certificates. Just take the exam that suits you better in terms of time and price (telc exams tend to be cheaper than Goethe exams). Goethe exams can be taken only at a Goethe Institute, telc exams at test centers worldwide.
German Language Test for University Admission
The results are given in percentages and thus the graduate is placed in a level range. Of the three different levels DSH-1, DSH-2 and DSH-3, the former is the easiest.
People are usually able to get to the B1 level with 300 to 600 hours of study. At B2, the difficulty starts ramping up and the Goethe-Institut recommends closer to 800 hours before taking the B2 test. At this level, it's extremely important to be able to use the language as it's used in real-life situations.
The relevant levels of language ability according to the Common European Framework of Reference are C2, C1, and B2, with C2 being the hardest, and B2 the easiest. So "Goethe-Zertifikat C 2 (Goethe)" is the hardest. "DSH-3" is the upper end of C1, and is next in line. "TELC Deutsch C1 Hochschule" is equivalent to this.
Telc German C1 University certificate is commonly recognized as a proof of sufficient German skills for academic studies in Germany.
The telc B2 Deutsch test is doable with 2-3 months of a solid preparation. Knowing the test format through and through is 20-30% of the success. You have to address your weaknesses, but prepare holistically. It's not as scary as it seems.
TELC certificates are recognised worldwide as official proof of German language competence, in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
The Goethe-Institut certificate (Zertifikat) is recognised worldwide as a German language certification, and can be used in Germany for visa, residence permit and citizenship applications, as well as for university entrance requirements.
There's no doubt that the C1 exam is difficult, but it's certainly not impossible. I'm someone who still makes grammar mistakes more frequently than I'd like, sometimes uses the wrong words and can't always find the right vocabulary, but, thanks to some good preparation, I managed to pass.
Scoring and passing marks
The TELC has a total score of 300 points. The written test has 225 points, and the oral examination has 75 points. To pass any TELC test, you need at least 60% written and oral. For instance, at least 135 points in writing and 45 points in speaking.
Without knowing the grammar, the vocabulary, the topics and the phrases and whatever is asked of you, you will not understand the A2 exam. Because you also must write and email for example and you must be able to express yourself on an A2 Level. A2 exam is standardized across the planet. it is very easy.
For internationally recognised proof of German language proficiency, we recommend taking our official Goethe-Zertifikat exams, which are available for levels A1 to C2.
The Level C1 in German requires a very high language level and is therefore correspondingly difficult. For many students, the C1 level in German is a great challenge. However, there are also many resources to prepare for the exam. With the right motivation and the will to pass the exam, anyone can pass the C1 level!
It's generally considered that reaching B2 is having basic fluency.
Is there much difference between the exams? The answer is yes! You will need to work a lot harder and be serious about your preparation for the C1 Advanced exam. While the B2 First shows you have a good grounding in English, the C1 Advanced is closer to the level of a native speaker.
How hard is B2 level German? The German language is complex yet highly systematic. For a systematic language, you need a systematic course structure though. If the course material you are using has a thought-out structure, then it shouldn't be difficult.
According to CEFR, B1 level means:
You can handle most situations while traveling in different areas in which language is spoken. You can describe your experiences of different events, meetings, etc. Attaining b1 level German is something that you should be proud of.
This depends on what you want to learn in Germany. If you want to learn German language and literature or any other course with medium of instruction as German, you need to have a certification of C2. On the other hand, TUs i.e. Technische Universität accept B1.
Does the certificate/my exam expire? Goethe-Zertifikats A1 through C2 do not expire. Many institutions and employers, however, expect the certificate to be dated not more than two years ago.
C2 (Upper Advanced/Fluent)
Your mastery at the C2 level lets you produce and understand highly complex German.
The Goethe Institut says you need to have studied German for at least 750 hours to get to this point. But realistically, it might take you up to 3 years to reach the C2 level. You shouldn't feel discouraged if you feel like the C2 level is out of your reach, since even native Germans struggle with reaching this level.
How much time do you need to learn German to a B2 level? A quick google search shows that The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) suggests that you need about 750 hours to get to this level.