Skip to main content

telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule

The German language examination for university studies

With this certificate, you demonstrate that you have mastered the German language at an advanced level and can communicate successfully in everyday situations and university settings

Structure of the examination

The examination consists of a written and an oral part.  This examination tests important skills required for university studies and academic careers. 

Test takers complete tasks in all skills. The receptive part consists of reading, listening and language elements. Task types include multiple-choice or matching tasks. In the productive part, writing and speaking, the test takers respond to input and express themselves in writing or orally.   In the oral examination, the focus is on the direct exchange between the test takers. 

 Subtest Number of partsDuration in minutesAdditional information


 

Written examination 

Reading 3
90


 

20 minutes break 

Language elements 1
Listening 3approx. 40
Writing 170
Oral examination Speaking 3approx. 16

usually 2 participants 

20 minutes preparation time 

This exam is available as a digital, hybrid and paper-based exam. It can be taken as a partial examination. 

In the tips for test takers, you will find more details about the examination, including a complete set of tests with solutions to prepare at home or in class. You will learn how the examination is carried out and how the written and oral performances are evaluated. 

Want to know more? Download the handbook here for information on learning objectives, test format and tasks.

The CEFR level C1

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) defines six levels of competence: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. 

 

  • Learners at language level C1 can express themselves spontaneously and fluently.  

  • They are familiar with colloquial phrases and can vary the style of speech in a targeted manner. 

  • They maintain a high level of grammatical correctness. 

Why should you choose telc language examinations?

telc certificates are internationally recognised by schools, universities, employers and authorities as proof of language skills at all six levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).  As a full member of ALTE (Association of Language Testers in Europe), telc is committed to complying with international quality standards.  

Find out more about telc quality standards