Exam overview
TELC B1: prepare for each exam section
The written exam covers reading, language elements, listening and writing. In the oral exam, you introduce yourself, discuss a topic and plan something together. Choose a section or start with the diagnostic test.
The exam at a glance
| Exam section | Duration | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Reading (3 parts) | 90 minutes together with language elements | 75 |
| Language elements (2 parts) | within the same 90 minutes | 30 |
| Listening (3 parts) | about 30 minutes | 75 |
| Writing (one letter or email) | 30 minutes | 45 |
| Oral exam (3 parts, usually in pairs) | about 15 minutes, preceded by 20 minutes of preparation | 75 |
The written exam is worth 225 points and the oral exam 75, for a total of 300. To pass, you need at least 60% in each: 135 out of 225 points in the written exam and 45 out of 75 in the oral exam. The thresholds apply separately; a high score in one cannot make up for a low score in the other.
For a walkthrough of exam day, read the TELC B1 exam guide and tips.
Reading
Practise understanding the main idea, details and specific information with exercise texts and explanations.
Language elements
Grammar and vocabulary in context: multiple choice tasks and word lists.
Listening
Everyday conversations, interviews and announcements with audio and transcripts.
Writing and speaking
Tasks, useful phrases and guided trainers for the productive exam sections.
Diagnostic test and study plan
Assess your current level with appropriate caution and plan the time left before the exam.
The linked exam exercises are in German, as in the real exam.
Suggested order
- Use the diagnostic test to identify strengths and gaps.
- Practise individual exam sections with explanations.
- Complete a full mock exam under timed conditions.
- Review mistakes and revisit the relevant grammar or vocabulary topics.
GermanUp is an independent learning service. These are original exercises modelled on the exam format, not official telc tasks. We aim to make them as close to the original as possible, but their format and difficulty may differ from the real exam.
Frequently asked questions about TELC B1
How many points do I need to pass?
You need 60% in each of the two sections: 135 out of 225 points in the written exam and 45 out of 75 in the oral exam. You must meet both thresholds separately.
Can I retake just one exam section?
Yes. The written and oral exams can be retaken separately if you failed only one. Your exam centre sets the deadline and fee, so ask there before registering again.
How long does exam day take?
Including a break, the written exam takes around two and a half hours: 90 minutes for reading and language elements, then listening (about 30 minutes) and writing (30 minutes). The oral exam is separate: 20 minutes of preparation followed by about 15 minutes of speaking.
How does TELC B1 differ from Goethe-Zertifikat B1?
Goethe-Zertifikat B1 is modular: reading, listening, writing and speaking can be booked and retaken separately. TELC B1 has a written and an oral exam. The task formats differ too: language elements are specific to TELC. See the Goethe B1 format.
Where should I start if my exam is in eight weeks?
Start with the short diagnostic test to see which sections need the most work. Then plan your weeks with the study plan generator and focus on your weakest sections. Read the eight week study plan.