There are many German certificates, and it is easy to get confused about which one you actually need. The answer depends mainly on your goal. Here you get the complete overview.
Which German certificate do I need?
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The most important question is not the provider but the purpose. For citizenship you usually need a certificate at B1 level, for many jobs rather B2, and for study there are separate tests. Which proof is accepted is always decided by the relevant authority. You will find a detailed decision guide on our page which German certificate do I need.
The most important certificates at a glance
- telc and Goethe: widely recognised, more on this in telc or Goethe B1.
- ÖSD: the Austrian diploma, see telc or ÖSD.
- DTZ: the test at the end of the integration course, see telc B1 or DTZ.
How to find the right one
First clarify your goal, then the necessary level, then the provider. With the level, do you need B1 or B2 helps.
The bottom line
Which German certificate you need follows from your goal and the required level. Ask the relevant authority, then you choose the right proof without detours.
