How to Pass the DTZ? Strategy, Structure and Points

The short answer: how to pass the DTZ with B1

The DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer) is a single exam with two possible outcomes: A2 or B1. You almost never fail outright; instead, you receive either an A2 or a B1 certificate depending on your performance.

For a B1 result, one clear rule applies:

You must reach B1 level in the “Speaking” section and additionally achieve B1 in at least one written section, either “Listening and Reading” or “Writing”.

This means: Speaking is the most important part. If you score below B1 in Speaking, you get at most A2, no matter how well you do on the written sections. This is exactly where you should concentrate your effort.

How the DTZ is structured

The DTZ consists of a written and an oral part. In total, it tests four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Written part (about 100 minutes)

• Listening: multiple tasks, for example announcements, phone calls and conversations.
• Reading: everyday texts such as ads, letters, short messages.
• Writing: You usually write a letter or an email in response to a given situation.

“Listening” and “Reading” are counted together. There are a total of 45 points. You get one point for each correct answer.

• 20 to 32 points = A2
• 33 to 45 points = B1

In Writing you can earn a maximum of 20 points. You are assessed on four criteria: content, communicative design (does the letter fit the situation?), correctness (grammar) and vocabulary.

• 7 to 14 points = A2
• 15 to 20 points = B1

Oral part (about 16 minutes)

Speaking usually takes place with one other test taker. There are three tasks:

1. Introduce yourself: You talk briefly about yourself.
2. Speak about a topic: You describe a picture, for example, or talk about your experiences.
3. Plan something together: You plan something with your partner, such as a celebration or a trip.

Two examiners rate you on pronunciation/intonation, correctness, expression and task completion. This section always counts toward whether you get B1.

7 strategies to pass the DTZ

1. Practice speaking the most. It is the decisive section. Speak German out loud every day, even if you make mistakes. Describe pictures, talk about your day, practice planning together with a study partner.
2. Memorize typical phrases and expressions. Sentences like “I think that…”, “Should we rather…?” or “That’s a good idea, but…” help you in every speaking task.
3. Write lots of practice letters. Writing tasks often involve similar situations: a complaint, an apology, an invitation. Learn the structure (greeting, introduction, main body, closing) and suitable sentences.
4. Practice Listening and Reading with real exam tasks. On the g.a.s.t. website and from exam providers (telc, Goethe) you can find free practice sets. Do them under real conditions, with a time limit and no breaks.
5. Pay attention to time. In the written part, time is tight. Practice with a timer beforehand so you don’t get stuck on Reading and have enough time for Writing.
6. Learn everyday vocabulary. Authorities, work, health, housing, family: these are the typical topics. If you know these words confidently, you understand texts and listening comprehension much more easily.
7. Take a full practice test. This shows you exactly what to expect and helps you go into the exam more calmly.

How a structured B1 course prepares you

Many people don’t master Speaking because they simply lack practice. A guided course helps exactly here. Our B1 online course uses the Hueber textbook “Schritte plus Neu” and a real, certified German-as-a-Foreign-Language instructor. You learn exactly the grammar and vocabulary required at B1 level for the DTZ.

Especially useful for the exam: an AI trainer practices Speaking, pronunciation and letter writing with you, exactly the two skills that matter most in the DTZ. So you can practice as often as you want without fear of making mistakes.

If you’re still at A1 or A2, the Complete Package A1 to B1 is a good way to get step by step to DTZ level.

Conclusion

Passing the DTZ is achievable if you know the rule: Speaking must be B1, plus one written section. So focus especially on Speaking and letter writing, practice regularly with real exam tasks and learn everyday vocabulary. With a clear plan and plenty of practice, you’ll reach your B1 certificate, which you need for example for citizenship.