How does the telc B1 exam work and how many points do you need?

The telc Deutsch B1 exam consists of two major parts: a written part and an oral part. Both are graded separately and must each be passed individually. To pass, you need at least 60 percent of the points in each part: 135 of 225 points in the written part and 45 of 75 points in the oral part. Overall, that means at least 180 of 300 possible points.

The written part at a glance

The written part takes about two and a half hours total (including a short break) and consists of four task areas. You complete it together with other test-takers in the same room.

1. Reading comprehension (max. 75 points)

You read various texts, for example ads, short articles, or signs, and answer questions about them. Here you demonstrate that you understand everyday texts and can find information strategically.

2. Language modules (max. 30 points)

This part focuses on grammar and vocabulary. You fill in gaps in texts, for example with the correct verb, the right preposition, or the appropriate word.

3. Listening comprehension (max. 75 points)

You listen to announcements, conversations, and short messages on a recording and answer questions about them. The recordings are usually played only once or twice, so concentrated listening is important.

4. Written expression / Letter (max. 45 points)

You write a letter or email for a given situation, for example a complaint or invitation. Important: You must address all the given content points. If an important point is completely missing or the format is not correct, the entire letter can be marked with zero points. This is where many test-takers unnecessarily lose points.

Together, these four areas make up the 225 points of the written part. You need at least 135 points to pass.

The oral part at a glance

The oral part takes about 15 minutes and in most cases takes place in pairs, that is, with another test-taker. Before that, you have about 20 minutes of preparation time. Two examiners listen and evaluate. The oral part has three tasks:

1. Starting a conversation (max. 15 points): You get to know each other and ask each other short questions.
2. Discussion of a topic (max. 30 points): You discuss a topic, for example based on pictures or statements, and exchange your opinions.
3. Solving a task together (max. 30 points): You plan something together, for example a trip or a celebration, and reach agreement.

The oral part brings 75 points, of which you need at least 45 points.

How do you pass? The points logic explained simply

Important: You cannot make up for a weak part with a strong one. Both parts count separately.

• Written: at least 135 of 225 points (60%)
• Oral: at least 45 of 75 points (60%)

For example, if you’re great in writing but only score 40 points in speaking, unfortunately you haven’t passed. So plan your preparation to train all four written areas and speaking, not just your strengths.

What if you only pass one part?

You can retake the telc B1 exam as many times as you want. At many test centers, if you only pass one part, you can retake just the part you failed within one year and don’t have to do everything again. This varies from center to center, so it’s best to ask directly at your test center.

How to prepare best

From experience, most test-takers lose points on the letter and speaking because you need practice and feedback to do these parts well. Here are some concrete tips:

• Write several practice letters and have them corrected. Make sure all content points really are included.
• Practice speaking aloud, ideally with a partner or with targeted pronunciation training.
• Complete at least one full model test under real time conditions so nothing surprises you on exam day.

This is exactly what our online B1 course does: You learn with a real, certified German-as-a-foreign-language teacher, get concrete feedback on your letters, and can practice speaking and pronunciation with an AI trainer as often as you want. The course specifically prepares you for telc, Goethe, and DTZ. If you’re starting at A1 or A2 and want to reach B1 safely, it’s also worth looking at the continuous B1 learning path.

Conclusion

The telc B1 exam is doable when you understand the structure and practice strategically. Remember the two most important numbers: 135 of 225 points in writing and 45 of 75 points in speaking, each part separate. Practice the letter and speaking especially, and you’ll go into exam day relaxed and well prepared.