Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer (DTZ)

Who Is This Exam For?

The DTZ is designed for immigrants in Germany who:

• Are completing an integration course (Integrationskurs)
• Need proof of German skills for citizenship applications
• Want to apply for permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis)
• Are required to demonstrate German proficiency for visa extensions

How the DTZ Works

Unlike other German exams, the DTZ doesn't have a simple pass/fail result. Instead, you receive one of three outcomes:

• B1 certificate - You demonstrated B1 level in all sections
• A2 certificate - You reached A2 but not B1
• Below A2 - No certificate issued

Important: For citizenship and permanent residence, you need the B1 result.

Exam Format

Written Exam (100 minutes)

Listening (Hören) - 25 minutes

• Part 1: Short announcements (global understanding)
• Part 2: Radio broadcasts (detailed understanding)
• Part 3: Conversations (selective understanding)
• Part 4: Announcements (selective understanding)

Reading (Lesen) - 45 minutes

• Part 1: Correspondence (5 items)
• Part 2: Media texts like newspaper articles (5 items)
• Part 3: Small ads and notices (5 items)
• Part 4: Information texts (5 items)
• Part 5: Gap-fill text (5 items)

Writing (Schreiben) - 30 minutes

• Write a letter or email responding to a given situation
• About 100-150 words expected

Oral Exam (15 minutes)

Done in pairs:

• Part 1: Introduction - Talk about yourself
• Part 2: Exchange information using visual prompts
• Part 3: Plan something together (e.g., organize an event)

DTZ vs telc B1 vs Goethe B1

| Aspect | DTZ | telc B1 | Goethe B1 | |--------|-----|---------|-----------| | Cost | Free* | €150-180 | €250-280 | | Duration | 100 min | 165 min | 195 min | | Result | A2 or B1 | Pass/Fail | Pass/Fail | | Best for | Integration course | General use | International |

*Free when taken as part of an integration course

Scoring System

• Each section: 25 points maximum
• Total: 100 points
• For B1: Need 60% in each section
• For A2: Need 60% overall but below B1 in at least one section

Preparation Tips

If You're in an Integration Course

1. Attend regularly - The course prepares you specifically for this exam
2. Do the mock exams - Your teacher will provide practice tests
3. Practice the letter format - Writing is often the hardest part
4. Speak German daily - The speaking section requires fluency

If You're Taking It Independently

1. Get the official materials - Available from telc (the exam provider)
2. Take a preparation course - Many VHS and private schools offer them
3. Study 3-6 months - Allow enough time if starting from A1

After the Exam

• Results arrive within 6-8 weeks
• If you pass with B1: You've completed your integration course requirements
• If you get A2: You may take additional classes and retake the exam
• If below A2: You can retake the exam (additional fees may apply)

Registration

The DTZ is administered by telc on behalf of the BAMF (Federal Office for Migration and Refugees).

• Integration course participants: Your course provider registers you
• Independent test-takers: Register through a licensed test center
• Required documents: Valid ID, registration confirmation