Goethe A1 Exam Format: Complete Guide

·Goethe-Zertifikat A1

Key takeaways

  • Goethe-Zertifikat A1 certifies CEFR A1 (beginner).
  • Four skills: Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen — 100 points total.
  • Typical duration: ~65 min written + ~15 min speaking.
  • This guide lives on a1.goetheprep.com — the A1 prep site.

Preparing for Goethe-Zertifikat A1? This guide on a1.goetheprep.com explains the official A1 structure. Family reunification, basic residence requirements, and proof of starter German.

What the A1 exam tests

  • Lesen: short texts, signs, simple forms
  • Hören: short announcements and dialogues
  • Schreiben: fill forms, short messages
  • Sprechen: introduce yourself, ask/answer simple questions

Scoring

Each skill is worth 25 points (100 total). You generally need ≥60 overall with minimums in Schreiben and Sprechen. See our passing score guide.

Prepare with the app

GoethePrep includes seven A1-format practice exams with audio, writing review, and stats — download on the App Store.

Studying a different level? Visit goetheprep.com for A1–C2.